South Africa launched an electric vehicle demonstration project over the weekend to prove the viability of long-distance travel as the country celebrates Transport Month. The Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation collaborated with the South African National Energy Development Institute and Nelson Mandela University's Uyilo e-Mobility Program to conduct the journey from Johannesburg to Gqeberha using a Volvo XC40 electric vehicle. Officials collected performance data across multiple provinces to inform infrastructure planning and policy development.
The vehicle traveled through Gauteng, Free State, and Eastern Cape while researchers monitored battery consumption, charging duration, and terrain effects. The demonstration concluded at the Uyilo e-Mobility Innovation Summit, starting on Monday in Gqeberha. SANEDI chief Titus Mathe stated the partnership advances cleaner transportation and energy efficiency goals. The initiative addressed concerns about electric vehicle reliability on South African roads while promoting the expansion of charging networks beyond urban centers.
The vehicle traveled through Gauteng, Free State, and Eastern Cape while researchers monitored battery consumption, charging duration, and terrain effects. The demonstration concluded at the Uyilo e-Mobility Innovation Summit, starting on Monday in Gqeberha. SANEDI chief Titus Mathe stated the partnership advances cleaner transportation and energy efficiency goals. The initiative addressed concerns about electric vehicle reliability on South African roads while promoting the expansion of charging networks beyond urban centers.
