As multinational fleets continue proving that electric trucks can perform reliably in certain South African operating conditions, DSV has stepped forward with a tangible example of what local e-truck adoption can look like.
In partnership with Volvo Trucks South Africa, the logistics giant has rolled out its first operational 8-ton electric truck, giving the market another data point for e-truck viability in this country. The vehicle was recently unveiled at DSV Park Gauteng, where leadership from both companies marked what they describe as a key step in their shared sustainability trajectory.
A new class of electric capability
Three new Volvo 8-ton electric trucks will join DSV’s Air & Sea operations, building on a journey that started three years ago with an electric van and later a 4-ton truck. With these additions, 15% of the fleet becomes fully electric.
Melanie Smit, Vice President Air & Sea, Sub-Saharan Africa, said: “We are proud to unveil our first Volvo 8-ton electric truck in partnership with Volvo Trucks SA. As the first of its kind for both organisations in South Africa, it represents an important step forward in delivering on our sustainability commitments.”
Operational trials at DSV show average consumption just over 1kWh per kilometre and a maximum range of 230km. The combination of predictable route cycles and fast-charging aligns well with the division’s daily needs, keeping downtime minimal and customer service levels stable.
Infrastructure aligned to the shift
Gordon Wyatt, CEO of Air & Sea for the Middle East and Africa, reinforced the broader roadmap: “This investment, along with the installation of solar and a Battery Energy Storage System at our major sites in South Africa, moves us further along our sustainability journey and strengthens our ability to support customers with efficient, low-emission transport solutions that reflect DSV’s global strategy and values.”
DSV’s road division is also scaling up. Five new Volvo electric truck tractors will arrive before the end of this year with another due in January 2026. Internal studies comparing electric and ICE units show electric models performing particularly well in volume-based operations, reinforcing their suitability for DSV’s network.
Global commitments reflected locally
This South African deployment follows DSV’s 2024 global agreement to purchase 300 electric trucks in Europe, bringing its worldwide electric fleet to roughly 500 units. It remains one of Volvo’s largest commercial electric orders to date.
Waldemar Christensen, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks South Africa, said: “It is truly inspiring to witness how global transport leaders like DSV are integrating electric trucks into their daily operations, demonstrating that sustainable transport is both practical and efficient in South Africa.
“We take pride in the role electric trucks play in reducing emissions while creating a quieter, more comfortable working environment for drivers. Partnering with a global leader such as DSV on this journey is an honour and a testament to our shared commitment to shaping a cleaner, more sustainable future for transport.”
Aligned to science-based climate targets
Both companies remain committed to the science-based targets initiative. DSV aims to cut scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% and scope 3 by 30% by 2030 against its 2019 baseline, with a joint ambition to reach net-zero by 2050 in line with the Paris Agreement. The partners argue that electric trucks are no longer niche projects but grounded operational assets delivering measurable gains.
Editor’s comment: This is another strong signal that multinational fleets are effectively road-testing electric freight for the rest of the South African market. Reliable range figures, volume-based operational benefits and aligned charging strategies mean that the technology is maturing. With DSV and Volvo demonstrating viability in live operations, local fleets now have concrete proof points to benchmark. The country’s transition to electric heavy transport will depend on exactly this kind of partnership and on-the-ground learning.
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