The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is gaining momentum worldwide, as more countries and carmakers commit to reducing their carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. EVs offer many benefits, such as lower running costs, lower maintenance costs, zero tailpipe emissions and a smoother driving experience. However, EVs also face many challenges, such as high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, range anxiety and consumer awareness.
In South Africa, the EV market is still in its infancy, with only a handful of models available and a low adoption rate compared to other countries. According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), only 350 fully-electric models were sold by the end of September 2022, compared to 218 in the entire 2021 and 154 in 2019. The total number of EVs on South African roads is estimated at around 1 500.
However, this could change in the near future, as more carmakers are planning to launch new EV models in South Africa in 2023 and beyond. According to various sources, at least nine new EV models are confirmed or expected to hit South African showrooms in 2023. These include:
GWM Ora Cat:
This is expected to be the most affordable EV in South Africa when it arrives in the third quarter of 2023. The Ora Cat is a retro-styled hatchback that offers a range of up to 501 km with a 59.7 kWh battery pack and supports fast charging. The price is estimated at around R600 000.
BMW iX1:
This is BMW’s first all-wheel drive EV to compete in the premium compact segment. The iX1 xDrive30 will be the sole derivative on offer and it produces 230 kW and 494 Nm from two electric motors. It has a range of between 413 km and 438 km with a 64.7 kWh battery pack and supports fast charging. It is due to go on sale in South Africa in the second quarter of 2023.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV / EQE sedan and SUV:
Mercedes-Benz will expand its EQ range with the introduction of the EQE sedan and SUV and the flagship EQS SUV. The EQE sedan and SUV are expected to arrive in South Africa in the first half of 2023, while the EQS SUV is expected in the second half of 2023. The EQE sedan and SUV will offer two powertrain options: the EQE 350 with 215 kW and 530 Nm and the EQE 450+ with 245 kW and 568 Nm. The EQS SUV will offer three powertrain options: the EQS 450+ with 264 kW and 568 Nm, the EQS 580 4Matic with 400 kW and 858 Nm and the EQS AMG with over 560 kW and over 1 000 Nm.
Rolls Royce Spectre:
This is Rolls Royce’s first-ever fully-electric car and it promises to be a masterpiece of luxury and performance. The Spectre will feature four electric motors that deliver over 1 000 hp (746 kW) and over 1 500 Nm of torque. It will have a range of over 600 km with a battery pack of over 100 kWh and support fast charging. It will also have advanced features such as autonomous driving, wireless charging and biometric access. The Spectre is expected to launch globally in mid-2023, but it is not clear when it will arrive in South Africa or how much it will cost.
Audi Q4 e-tron / Q4 Sportback e-tron:
These are Audi’s compact electric SUVs that share the same platform as the Volkswagen ID.4. They will offer three powertrain options: the Q4 e-tron/Q4 Sportback e-tron with a rear motor that produces