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Electric Trucks in South Africa 2025: The Power of Choice
- John Ford
- Sep 17
- 12 min read
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The pace of the transition toward electric commercial vehicles continues to evolve in ways that both challenge and surprise industry experts. Whether you are a fleet manager, an automotive enthusiast, or just someone interested in sustainable transport, we have all heard about the electrification of transport and its numerous benefits. More importantly, we have witnessed how industry visionaries in the 2010s prophesied about the coming transition and predicted its rapid acceleration.
More recently, however, I have been involved in many presentations, product launches, and policy discussions that reveal a nuanced reality. What is the latest consensus? Well, the transition is taking longer than initially expected, and the foretold sudden explosion in growth was perhaps misguided—especially in the South African market.
So, does this mean that the electrification of transport is a hopeless pipe dream? Absolutely not.
How the Availability of Choice Accelerates the EV Transition
The smartwatch market perfectly illustrates how technology adoption accelerates when consumers have diverse options that match their specific needs. While all smartwatches share core functions—telling time, connecting to smartphones, and tracking health metrics—the variety of available models has dramatically expanded the user base. Tech enthusiasts gravitated toward Apple Watches or Samsung Galaxy Watches based on their existing iOS or Android ecosystems, while fitness-focused consumers who might have ignored "smart" features entirely found their perfect match in Garmin's sport-oriented devices.
This diversification transformed smartwatches from a niche gadget into a mainstream accessory, demonstrating that market maturation isn't just about improved technology—it's about creating choices that resonate with different consumer priorities, ultimately driving broader adoption across previously untapped user segments.
The point of this comparison is to showcase that competition and customer choice increases the rate of adoption as the technology appeals to more market segments as it becomes tailored to specific needs.
The Passenger Car Market Evolution
We have seen this dynamic play out in the South African passenger vehicle market. In 2015, the entire electric vehicle market consisted of just two options: the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3. Disregarding the fact that the South African public EV charging network did not yet exist, individuals who loved the idea of an electric vehicle for off-road adventures that they could charge at home on the farm had no option other than two small urban hatchbacks.
Fast forward to 2025, and with the addition of EV charging infrastructure, the South African passenger electric vehicle market has expanded tremendously, covering numerous segments and providing potential buyers with an EV alternative to their preferred body style and use case.
Although the market has not yet exploded due to the lack of a well-developed EV charging network, affordable models, and general fear of the unknown, the factors in the commercial vehicle space are far more conducive to the proliferation of EVs.
The Commercial Market Advantage
In the commercial vehicle space, fleet vehicles are purchased primarily with the best total cost of ownership (TCO) in mind. The operation of these vehicles is managed in detail and optimized to achieve the lowest maintenance rates and fuel consumption possible. Electric commercial vehicles provide an opportunity to lower those factors even further!
Generally speaking, EVs have at least a 50% reduction in maintenance costs when compared to equivalent internal combustion vehicles, as well as a reduction of at least 60-70% in fuel costs. Not to mention the cost stability that electricity as a "fuel" can bring to your operation. The reduction of these costs, coupled with the right purchase price, can provide an improvement in the total cost of ownership by an average of between 5%-15%.
Current Electric Truck Options in South Africa
South African commercial vehicle OEMs such as SANY, JAC, Foton, Daimler, Volvo, and Scania know this and have committed to ensuring that the South African customer has the power of choice. Here's a comprehensive overview of the commercial electric trucks currently available in South Africa, organized by brand:
LIGHT-MEDIUM ELECTRIC VANS/TRUCKS
Foton eView Panel Van
Foton eView electric panel van designed for business fleet use and urban deliveries in South Africa.
Confirmed South African Price: R850,000
Key Specifications:
Battery: 50 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)
Range: 195 km (claimed)
Payload: 1,150 kg
Charging Time: 1.5 hours (DC), 7.7 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
LFP Battery Technology: More stable and longer lifespan than standard lithium-ion, reducing replacement costs and improving safety.
195km Range: Perfect for daily city-based routes and last-mile logistics.
Quick Charging: 1.5-hour DC charging enables multiple trips per day if needed.
1,150kg Payload: Exceeds most van delivery requirements in the urban sector.
Warranty: 3-year/100,000km mechanical, 5-year/200,000km battery warranty.
Foton eTruckmate LCV
Foton eTruckmate electric light commercial vehicle purpose-built for frequent urban tasks.
Confirmed South African Price: R575,000
Key Specifications:
Battery: 38.64 kWh LFP
Range: 280 km (claimed)
Payload: 1,380 kg
Charging Time: 1.5 hours (DC), 7 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
LFP Battery: Durable, cost-effective battery tech, more charge cycles.
280km Range: Suitable for multiple delivery cycles or extended city-to-city trips.
Quick Charging: Reduces downtime and boosts operational tempo.
High Payload: Superior to many petrol/diesel competitors—fits heavier urban loads.
Warranty: Warranty: 3-year/100,000km mechanical, 5-year/200,000km battery warranty.
Foton eAumark 4t (Medium Commercial Truck)
Foton eAumark electric 4-tonne truck, ideal for both urban and short regional freight.
Confirmed South African Price: R1,199,900 (quote-based sales only)
Key Specifications:
Battery: 81.14 kWh LFP (CATL)
Range: 208 km (claimed)
Payload: 3,570 kg
Charging Time: 1 hour (DC, est.) 4.5-5 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Large LFP Battery: Extended lifespan for high-utilization fleet use.
208km Range: Allows full-day urban or regional work, minimal range anxiety.
3.5t Payload: Matches traditional medium truck utility.
Rapid Charging: Ensures truck can operate multiple shifts if required.
Warranty: 5-year/200,000km battery & electric motor warranty
DFSK (EnviroAuto) EC35 Electric Panel Van
Confirmed South African Price: From R430,434.78
Key Specifications:
Battery: LFP 38.6 kWh
Range: 240 km (claimed)
Charging Time: 1 hour (DC), 6 hours (AC)
Payload: 1,015 kg
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Affordable Entry Point: At R550,000, most accessible electric commercial vehicle
Urban-Focused: Perfect for last-mile delivery and urban logistics
Home Charging Compatible: Can charge from standard household plug
Solar Compatible: Can be charged via solar panels for zero-emission operation
Good Payload: 1-tonne payload suits most urban delivery needs
Warranty: 3-year/60,000km warranty, 5-year battery warranty
SRM T3 LCV (EnviroAuto)
SRM T3 electric light commercial vehicle for business and delivery, distributed by EnviroAuto.
Confirmed South African Price: R669,900 (excl. VAT)
Key Specifications:
Battery: LFP 53.58 kWh
Range: 300 km (claimed)
Payload: 1,625 kg
Charging Time: 1 hour (DC); 5 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Long Range: Enables regional, rural, and all-day operation.
Fast Charging: 1 hour DC for rapid redeployment.
Top Payload in LCV: 1.6t rivals diesel alternatives in core trades/delivery.
Warranty: 5 year/120,000km Motor Warranty. 6 year/360,000km Battery Coverage
JAC X200 EV
JAC X200 electric cab-over one-tonner for mixed urban/regional duties.
Confirmed South African Price: R679,900
Key Specifications:
Battery: 63.75 kWh (LFP)
Range: 180-200 km (claimed)
Payload: 1,900 kg
Charging Time: 1.2 hours (DC) 9 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
LFP Chemistry: Fire-safe, longer-lived battery.
200km Range: Daily city, farm, or non-stop utility.
High Payload: Well beyond many rivals—efficiency for contractors/logistics.
Warranty: 3-year/100,000km mechanical, 8-year/400,000km battery.
JAC N75 EV
JAC N75 electric 4-tonne commercial delivery truck suitable for fleet electrification in South Africa
Confirmed South African Price: R1,199,000 (incl. VAT)
Key Specifications:
Battery: 106.95 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP)
Range: 200 km (claimed)
Payload: 4 tonnes
Charging Time: 1.2 hours (DC), No AC charging.
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
LFP Battery Technology: More stable and longer-lasting than standard lithium-ion, reducing replacement costs and fire risk
200km Range: Ideal for urban delivery routes and last-mile logistics
Quick Charging: 80-minute charging fits within driver break periods
4-Tonne Payload: Suits most commercial delivery applications
Warranty: 3-year/100,000km mechanical warranty, 6-year/300,000km battery warranty
SANY Light & Medium Truck
SANY medium/urban electric truck for logistics or commercial site use.
Confirmed South African Price: POA (fleet-only)
Key Specifications:
6 Ton Model
Battery: 81 kWh (LFP)
Range: 240km (claimed)
Payload: 3.1 tonne
Charging Time: 1.2 hour (DC) 13 hours (AC)
8 Ton Model
Battery: 320 kWh (LFP)
Range: 400km (claimed)
Payload: TBA
Charging Time: 1.2 hour (DC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Ideal range for urban and last-mile delivery
LFP Safety: Durable, robust performance for demanding tasks.
Right-sizing: Heavy payload class for construction, bulk city delivery, or depot freight.
Maxus eDeliver-3 Panel Van
Maxus eDeliver 3 modern European electric van, now in SA.
Confirmed South African Price: R919,994
Key Specifications:
Battery: 50.2 kWh (LFP)
Range: 250–300 km (claimed)
Payload: 1,000 kg
Charging Time: 1 hour (DC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
LFP Safety and Longevity: Lower risk, great cycle count for couriers.
City Range: Multiple daily roundtrips possible.
All-Modern: Advanced EV platform for low maintenance.
Warranty: Per importer, typically 3 years.
Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, electric van for premium fleet applications in SA.
Confirmed South African Price: R1,270,030–R1,566,723
Key Specifications:
Battery: 81 or 113 kWh (your choice)
Range: 250–315 km
Payload: Up to 1,550 kg
Charging Time: 45 mins - 2.15 hours (DC) 8-11 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Premium LFP/Thermal Tech: Safe and durable, supported by MB dealer network.
Best Payload/Range Combo: Great performance for demanding commercial runs or shuttles.
Lightning Fast Top-Up: Enables multi-shift and premium contract use.
Warranty: 3-year/100,000 km vehicle, 8-year/160,000 km battery.
HEAVY DUTY ELECTRIC TRUCKS:
SANY Truck Tractor (Jiangshan EV550 6x4)
SANY Jiangshan heavy electric truck tractor for long-distance portage, mining, logistics.
Confirmed South African Price: Coming Soon (fleet/tender only)
Key Specifications:
Battery: 282–423 kWh
Range: 250–300 km
Payload: Up to 49,000 kg (tractor-trailer)
Charging Time: 40 minutes (DC), 5 minutes (swap)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Swap Battery: Practically continuous runtime for shift work (logistics/mining).
Cargo Mass: Can match and replace a diesel truck for heavy haulage.
Power: Best in segment for torque/grade-ability on steep or difficult roads.
Volvo FH Electric
Confirmed South African Price: POA (fleet sales)
Key Specifications:
Battery Capacity: 360-540 kWh (four to six 90kWh battery packs)
Range: 200-300 km on single charge
Payload: Up to 44 tonnes gross combination weight
Charging Time: 1.5 - 2.2 hours (DC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
540 kWh Battery: Large capacity provides substantial range for regional operations
Multiple Configurations: Flexibility to match specific operational requirements
Fast Charging: 90-minute charging during mandatory driver breaks minimizes downtime
Proven Deployment: Already operational with major SA logistics companies
Volvo FMX Electric
Volvo FMX Electric construction and heavy-duty truck designed for demanding applications including mining, construction, and specialised transport operations.
Confirmed South African Price: POA (fleet/specialised applications)
Key Specifications:
Battery: 180–540 kWh (2-6 battery packs)
Range: Up to 300 km
Payload: Up to 44 tonnes gross combination weight (configuration dependent)
Charging Time: 0.7 - 2.1 hours (DC), 4 - 12.3 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Zero Emission Operations: Critical for indoor/underground operations where emissions restrictions apply
High Power Output: Up to 490kW continuous power handles steep grades and heavy loads typical in construction
Specialized Applications: Supports various body configurations and PTO requirements for specialized equipment
Warranty: Volvo commercial warranty with support for specialized construction applications
Volvo FM Electric
Volvo FM Electric versatile distribution truck optimised for urban delivery, container transport, and regional freight operations.
Confirmed South African Price: POA (fleet sales)
Key Specifications:
Battery: 180–540 kWh (2-6 battery packs)
Range: Up to 300 km
Payload: Up to 44 tonnes gross combination weight
Charging Time: 0.7 - 2.1 hours (DC), 4 - 12.3 hours (AC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Urban Distribution Focus: Lower entry height and agile design optimized for city delivery operations
Flexible Configuration: Multiple cab options (day cab, sleeper, crew cab) suit different operational requirements
Quiet Operation: Essential for early morning/late night urban deliveries with noise restrictions
High-Capacity Deliveries: Ideal for grocery distribution, retail supply chains, and high-volume urban freight
Warranty: Standard Volvo commercial vehicle warranty with electric drivetrain coverage
Mercedes-Benz eActros 300
Confirmed South African Price: POA
Key Specifications:
Battery Capacity: 330-448 kWh ( 3-4 NMC battery packs)
Range: 330-400 km (depending on number of batteries)
Body/Payload: 8.2-16.1 tonnes
Charging Time: 2-3 hours (DC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
330km Range: Covers most regional delivery routes on single charge
High Payload Capacity: Up to 16.1 tonnes payload maintains operational efficiency
NMC battery has better energy density
Fast Charging: 75-minute charging fits operational schedules
Mercedes-Benz eActros 300LS (Tractor)
Confirmed South African Price: POA
Key Specifications:
Battery Capacity: 330–448 kWh (3–4 NMC battery packs, NMC technology)
Range: 330–400 km (depending on number of batteries)
Charging Time: 2-3 hours (DC)
Gross Combination Mass: 40 tonnes (tractor configuration)
Cab: Sleeper cab for long-distance operations
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Up to 400km Range: Covers most long-distance and regional delivery routes on a single charge
40t GCM (Tractor): Supports standard container and line-haul trailers
NMC Battery: High energy density for more range per battery mass
Rapid 75-Min Charging: Minimal downtime with fast direct current charging
Mercedes-Benz eActros 300L 6X2
Confirmed South African Price: POA
Key Specifications:
Battery Capacity: 330–448 kWh (3–4 NMC battery packs)
Range: Up to 200 km (real-world estimate in 6x2 config)
Charging Time: 2-3 hours (DC)
Payload: Increased load for heavier cargo applications
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
6x2 Chassis: Handles heavier, urban/regional loads
Robust Range: Suits daily logistics, waste, and refrigerated fleet needs
NMC Battery: High-capacity pack for commercial endurance
DC Fast Charging: Quick turnaround for urban fleets
Scania 25P Electric
Scania electric truck designed for regional and long-haul commercial transport
Confirmed South African Price: POA
Key Specifications:
Battery Capacity: 300 kWh (nine lithium-ion batteries)
Range: 250 km (claimed)
Body/Payload: 10-12 tonne
Charging Time: 1.5 hours (DC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Integrated Electric Cooling: Eliminates need for separate diesel-powered refrigeration units
250km Range: Well-suited for regional delivery routes
Proven in Operation: Successfully deployed by major SA retailer
Specialized Applications: Designed for refrigerated transport
ELECTRIC BUSSES:
BYD Electric Bus
BYD 12-metre low-floor city bus.
Confirmed South African Price: Fleet purchase/tender only. Specs depend on configuration and model.
Key Specifications:
Battery: 324 kWh LFP
Range: 300 km (claimed)
Payload: 65 passengers (seated)
Charging Time: 3 hours (DC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Fleet LFP Battery: Maximizes life, minimizes safety incidents in bus fleets.
All-Day Range: 300km allows for full city shift without charging downtime.
Zero-Emissions: Meets SA air and noise quality goals.
MAN Lion's Explorer E (Electric Bus)
MAN e-bus for fleet and urban passenger service.
Confirmed South African Price: Fleet contract/tender
Key Specifications:
Battery: 320 kWh
Range: 350 km (claimed)
Payload: 60+ passengers
Charging Time: 3 hours (DC)
Why These Specs Matter for Fleet Managers:
Max Urban Range: 350km ensures multi-line flexibility in city ops.
Low-Maintenance: Compared with diesel rivals, reduced total cost.
Brand Support: Robust SA bus dealer support structure.
Key Purchasing Considerations
Charging Infrastructure Requirements:
All models require DC fast charging capability for optimal operation
Consider installation costs
Plan for grid connection and electrical infrastructure upgrades
Total Cost of Ownership Benefits:
Electric trucks typically offer 50% reduction in maintenance costs
60-70% reduction in fuel costs compared to diesel equivalents
5-15% improvement in total cost of ownership over vehicle lifetime
Operational Planning:
Route planning becomes critical with current range limitations
Charging scheduling must align with operational requirements
Driver training required for optimal electric vehicle operation
Availability and Support
All verified models come with established dealer networks in South Africa and trained service technicians.
The South African electric truck market is still emerging, but these verified options provide fleet managers with legitimate choices for beginning their electrification journey, each suited to different operational requirements and budgets.
Conclusion
The fact is that the South African electric commercial vehicle market is finally offering meaningful choices to customers. These choices ensure that electric vehicles are capable enough and are being offered at competitive costs. With the ability to lower your total cost of ownership by 5-15%, control your "fuel" costs, own your EV ecosystem, and gain a clear competitive advantage in a tightly contested environment, the electrification of transport is not just a pipe dream—it is happening right now.
From compact urban delivery vehicles like the DFSK EC35 to heavy-duty long-haul tractors like the SANY EV550 Truck Tractor, fleet managers now have options that match their specific operational requirements. The combination of proven vehicle technology, expanding charging infrastructure, and comprehensive support services creates an ecosystem where electric commercial vehicles can thrive in South Africa.
Do not wait and get left behind. Contact Aeversa to start your fleet electrification journey and explore what that would look like for your specific operation. The power of choice in South Africa's electric truck market means there's an electric solution for every fleet—the question is not whether to electrify, but which electric trucks best serve your needs.
At Aeversa, we provide reliable, cost-effective solutions that scale with your EV integration targets without disrupting daily operations. Contact our team to discuss how CaaS fits your fleet's electric future.
Contact Aeversa:
Email: sales@aeversa.com
Phone: (+27) 67 403 0364
Fleet electrification made simple.
Written By:
 | John Henry Ford Sales Manager AEVERSA |
Author Bio:
John is the Sales Manager at Aeversa, where he specialises in fleet electrification and sustainable energy solutions. With a strong background in the EVSE and automotive industries, John has led initiatives that integrate electric vehicle charging infrastructure with renewable energy sources, such as solar power and battery storage.
His work focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and reducing costs for logistics and distribution fleets. John is passionate about advancing clean transportation technologies and has been instrumental in projects that demonstrate the practical benefits of fleet electrification in South Africa.
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