BMW iX3 crowned World Car of the Year 2026 as EVs lead the way
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
- Industry News
- 2 April 2026
DFSK South Africa has announced the roll-out of the DFSK EC35 Electric Panel Van, an electric vehicle designed to meet the demands of South African businesses while contributing to a greener future, says the manufacturer.
What is it?
“The EC35 is designed to be a practical, eco-conscious choice for South African businesses that need a reliable vehicle for cargo transport,” says Gina Giani, CEO DFSK South Africa. “We are committed to providing an affordable, reliable and powerful electric alternative for businesses.
Power:
Simplicity is key. The vehicle can be charged by plugging it into your normal, everyday house plug. This will take a little longer. Fast charging, from empty to full, takes a mere 60 minutes.
It has a range of up to 240km on a full charge. Rapid Charge (DC) takes 0%-80% in 1 hour while a full charge (AC 7kW) takes up to 6 hours.
The top speed is between 80km/h and 100km/h with power delivery of 60kW and 200Nm. It has a Lithium Iron Phosphate battery (38.6kWh) with and energy consumption of 14.7kWh/100km.
Interior:
The EC35 offers a host of driver-friendly features designed to improve comfort and convenience, including Air Conditioning, Bluetooth Connectivity with voice control, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, Reversing Camera and Parking Sensors, Multimedia System with 6.8” touchscreen, Remote Central Locking and Keyless Entry.
On the safety side, it features a Driver Airbag, Pedestrian Warning Sound, Central Locking & Immobiliser and Auto Door Locking.
Operating costs:
With charging costs as low as R120, businesses can expect an operating cost as low as 40c per km. The EC35 is designed for affordability, with a 3-year/60 000km warranty and 5-year traction battery warranty, ensuring minimal maintenance.
A standout feature is the solar charging capability, making the DFSK EC35 not just a zero-emission vehicle but also a smart investment for the environment.
Price:
The DFSK EC35 Electric Panel Van costs R550 000 excluding VAT.
The BMW iX3 has been named World Car of the Year 2026, with the announcement made at the New York International Auto Show on 1 April.
Retail new vehicle sales continue to surge in South Africa despite global and regional conflicts, local floods and droughts.
South Africa’s new vehicle market delivered a standout performance in March 2026, extending its domestic growth trajectory to the strongest level seen in nearly two decades.
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