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2 clusters · 4 sources · 26 days · First seen · Last updated

South African electric vehicle and transport trials

Overview

South Africa is conducting various large-scale vehicle trials focused on modernizing transport and evaluating electric vehicle (EV) technology.

In early September 2026, the City of Johannesburg initiated a 60-day electric bus trial on high-demand Metrobus and Rea Vaya corridors, including routes in Soweto, Sandton, and the CBD. This program aims to assess battery electric technology, energy consumption, and operational efficiency.

By late September, the focus expanded to the logistics sector with two major evaluations scheduled for November. The Truck Test 2026 will involve 20 extra-heavy trucks from 13 manufacturers traveling between Johannesburg and Durban. Concurrently, the Mzansi EV Truck Super Test 2026 will utilize two production electric trucks for a 4,000km journey connecting Johannesburg to Cape Town, Gqeberha, East London, and Durban. This trial seeks to test battery-electric performance and the adequacy of highway charging infrastructure for commercial freight.

Entities

Rea Vaya · South Africa · City of Johannesburg · SANY Africa · Dada Morero

Timeline

  1. [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    South Africa prepares for major heavy truck and EV trials

    South Africa prepares for major transport tests: the Truck Test 2026 for heavy diesel trucks and a 4,000km electric truck trial to evaluate e-mobility viability in the freight sector.

  2. [BUSINESS] 2 sources
    Johannesburg launches electric bus trial and transport plan for rugby match

    Johannesburg has launched a 60-day electric bus trial on Metrobus and Rea Vaya routes to test green technology and efficiency, coinciding with transport preparations for the Springboks vs All Blacks rugby match

Sources

bizcommunity.com · infrastructurenews.co.za · nowinsa.co.za · sowetolifemag.co.za