DFSK launches 2 cargo EVs in South Africa

From the newsletter

DFSK, a joint venture between Chinese automakers Dongfeng Motor Corporation and Sokon Industry Group, has launched two cargo EVs in South Africa. The launch of the EC35 and EC31 EVs marks the company's continued expansion in the region. The company is planning to launch a further lineup of both EVs and ICEs. 

• The EC31 is a truck with a range of 215 km on a single charge. An AC charger can fully charge the truck for 7 hours while a DC charge can achieve the same in 30 minutes. The truck can carry a load of 1,280 kg and has a cargo length of 2,530 mm.

• The EC35 van has between 2 and 5 seats and can carry loads of 1,090 kg. The van can travel a maximum of 268 km on a single charge and has a load space of between 3.1 and 4.8 cubic-metres.

More details

• South Africa’s freight and logistics sector is growing rapidly. The shift from rail to road freight, driven by the decline in rail infrastructure, has further bolstered the demand for road-based logistics solutions.

• The market size for electric trucks in the country is estimated at 3,600 units annually, valued at $1.35 billion and 47,000 electric light delivery vehicles valued at $2.01 billion. The main drivers of this market include cost savings on fuel and the feasibility of local assembly. 

• However, electric private passenger vehicles are the largest EV segment in South Africa. The country, which has a population of more than 60 million, has one of the largest lineups of EVs on the continent.

• Some of the models sold in the country include the Dayun Yuehu, BYD Dolphin, GWM Ora 300/400, BYD Atto 3, Volvo EX30, Mini Cooper SE, BYD Seal, Mini Countryman SE All4 and Maxus T90. Others include Volvo XC40 PC Recharge Plus, Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 Progressive and BMW i4 M50.

• Volvo is the largest-selling EV manufacturer in South Africa. Its most popular brand, the Volvo EX30, was the most sold EV in the country with 406 units sold in 2024, translating to 32.3% of the EV market.

• Chinese EV manufacturers such as Dongfeng are rapidly expanding their presence in Africa, establishing partnerships with local companies to set up manufacturing plants and distribution networks. BYD, for example, has launched its products in 13 African countries, including South Africa.

• The South African government plans to stimulate the EV market by introducing several incentives for EV manufacturers and buyers. From March 2026, companies will be able to claim a 150% tax deduction on investments in electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Our take

• The EV market in South Africa presents a mixed landscape of opportunities and challenges. While sectors like electric micro-mobility, public transportation, freight, and private passenger vehicles offer substantial growth potential, overcoming barriers such as high capital expenditure, limited infrastructure, and energy security is crucial. 

• The e-commerce boom in South Africa and Africa at large has led to a significant increase in demand for efficient and eco-friendly last-mile delivery solutions. Cargo EVs, with their lower operational costs, are increasingly preferred by logistics companies and e-commerce platforms. This market will grow further in tandem with the country’s logistics sector.  

• The capital expenditure costs for EV cargo trucks in South Africa are high. The initial purchase price of electric trucks is significantly higher compared to traditional ICE vehicles. Innovative financing models such as EV-as-a-Service and leasing will play a major role in lowering the cost of adopting electric cargo vehicles.