South Africa Unveils First Electric Minibus Taxi

In a groundbreaking move for sustainable transportation, South Africa has officially launched its first electric minibus taxi, dubbed eKamva, at the Smarter Mobility Africa Summit. Led by GoMetro, a transport technology platform, in collaboration with various partners, the eKamva initiative aims to revolutionise the country’s public transport sector, reduce carbon emissions, and address rising transportation costs for commuters.

The launch represents a significant shift towards decarbonizing public transport in South Africa. The eKamva, which means “the future” in isiXhosa, is expected to offer a cleaner, more efficient alternative to the conventional minibus taxis that transport millions daily across Southern Africa.

Tackling Transportation and Environmental Challenges

The eKamva project comes at a critical time when transport costs in South Africa are consuming up to 40% of commuters’ incomes, and the minibus taxi sector, the backbone of public transport, faces challenges such as rising fuel prices and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The minibus taxis contribute an estimated 30 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, making the sector one of the largest polluters in the country.

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According to GoMetro CEO Justin Coetzee, the introduction of the eKamva could spark the growth of a new economic sector centred around green transport. “This is a new approach to electrifying smaller-vehicle public transport. We believe it will create new economic opportunities and is crucial for the automotive sector,” Coetzee said.

The eKamva’s Technical Features and Cost Efficiency

The 15-seater eKamva boasts impressive features, including a range of more than 200 kilometres on a single charge. It can fast-charge in 75 minutes using a 60kW DC charger or slow-charge overnight in 10 hours. Most notably, the eKamva is projected to offer a 40-70% cost saving compared to traditional diesel vehicles, a vital factor in reducing transport fares for commuters.

In addition to cutting costs, the eKamva will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 13.7 tonnes per vehicle annually, according to data collected by GoMetro. The vehicle also reduces harmful pollutants such as nitrous oxides and particulate matter, which have been linked to respiratory issues, thus improving community health.

Testing and Rollout Plans

The consortium behind eKamva, which includes Powerfleet, HSW, ACDC Dynamics, and Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Engineering, began rigorous testing of the electric taxi on traditional minibus taxi routes in Stellenbosch in 2023. These tests were designed to ensure that the vehicle could handle real-world conditions in South Africa.

Charging hubs are being developed across the country, with the first locations set for Century City and Stellenbosch within the next year. The flx EV platform, which will manage the charging infrastructure, will allow taxi operators to manage their fleets and prepay for recharging through a dedicated app. Operators will also be able to apply for the new electric vehicles via the flx EV website.

A Call for Support and Policy Change

Despite the excitement surrounding the eKamva, challenges remain, particularly regarding the high import duties on electric vehicles in South Africa. A 40% duty currently imposed on EVs significantly increases the cost of the eKamva, pushing its price to around R1.2 million, compared to traditional vehicles priced at R650,000 to R750,000.

Coetzee has called on the government to rethink its classification of electric vehicles as luxury goods, which subjects them to higher taxes. “If the government removes the luxury tax on electric minibuses, we could offer the eKamva at a more affordable price, comparable to traditional vehicles,” he said.

A Greener Future for Public Transport

The eKamva’s potential to transform South Africa’s transport sector cannot be understated. With fewer breakdowns, longer life expectancy, and significant environmental benefits, the electric taxi promises to reshape how millions of South Africans commute daily.

“This project is not just about cleaner transport; it’s about improving the quality of life for our communities,” said Rudi Kriel, project lead for GoMetro. As the demand for greener, more sustainable public transport solutions grows, the eKamva could lead South Africa towards a future where transportation is not only more affordable but also environmentally responsible.

The launch of eKamva represents a pivotal moment for South Africa’s transportation sector, positioning the country as a leader in Africa’s green transport revolution.