Rubicon expands South Africa EV charging network

January 23, 2025

From the newsletter

South African EV charging company Rubicon announced yesterday that it will roll out 15 DC chargers across the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. This announcement follows Charge’s (formerly Zero Carbon Charge) plan to build at least 120 off-grid EV chargers in the Eastern Cape, revealed two months ago.

  • With high EV adoption in South Africa, the Eastern Cape presents strong market potential, as it includes major routes like the N10 connecting Gqeberha to Namibia and the N2 linking Cape Town to Ermelo. Additionally, provincial roads such as the R72, R75, and R61 enhance accessibility in the area. 

  • Rubicon’s first 47 kW DC charger has already been installed in Port Alfred, in partnership with the Automotive Industry Development Centre of Eastern Cape.

More details

  • Rubicon plans to position chargers every 100 km, while Charge will place 120 off-grid chargers at intervals of 150 km. These efforts aim to address range anxiety and ensure dependable charging along key routes. This infrastructure expansion simplifies route planning for EV drivers and signals readiness to support further adoption. However, South Africa lacks specific regulations on charger intervals, potentially causing inconsistencies in network planning.

  • South Africa faces a significant shortage of EV chargers, with only 400 public stations available for the 4,213 fully electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) sold between 2019 and 2024. Improving the current EV-to-charger ratio of 11:1 is essential, particularly as sectors like e-taxis, e-buses and e-trucks emerge. Public fast-charging stations are critical, even though many drivers use home chargers, as they enable long-distance travel and support commercial operations.

  • South Africa's rapid EV adoption, evidenced by 3,042 NEVs sold in Q1 2024, indicates robust potential for investors and companies. Manufacturers such as BYD, GWM, and Mercedes-Benz have chosen South Africa as a gateway to the African market, underscoring its strategic importance.

  • DC chargers, like the 47 kW model installed in Port Alfred, reduce charging times significantly, often fully recharging vehicles in under an hour. This convenience is crucial in South Africa, where long-distance travel along major routes is common. Faster charging enhances the overall experience for time-sensitive users.

  • The Type 2 plug is the standard for AC charging in South Africa, while the Combined Charging System (CCS2) is the standard for DC fast charging. All public DC stations in the country use CCS2, ensuring compatibility with most EV models. This alignment with global standards minimises technical issues, making the network more accessible. Investors should prioritise these standards to align with user needs and industry expectations.

  • Strategic locations such as shopping centres, hotels, and commercial areas are ideal for DC chargers due to their high footfall and available electrical capacity. Companies like Rubicon and GridCars can utilise these sites to increase visibility and boost usage, improving the financial performance of charging networks.

  • Rubicon is also working to raise awareness about EVs through its acquisition of Joule prototypes. Plans include restoring one model for public display and converting another into a functional vehicle to demonstrate the benefits of electric mobility. These efforts highlight South Africa's early innovation in EV technology and aim to inspire broader acceptance.

Our take

  • The outlook for EV infrastructure in South Africa is promising, driven by growing demand, strategic partnerships, and innovative off-grid solutions. Similar strategies could be adopted in other African nations like Morocco, Egypt, and Ethiopia, where urban growth fuels demand for sustainable transport. 

  • The doubling of charging sessions in 2024 underscores the increasing need for public infrastructure. Additionally, logistics firms and last-mile delivery providers present lucrative opportunities as they transition to electric mobility.

  • Off-grid chargers, such as those introduced by Charge, are vital for expanding EV access in areas without reliable grid connections. Solar-powered systems align with South Africa's renewable energy goals, offering both environmental and economic benefits. These solutions address gaps in underserved regions and promote equitable infrastructure development.