Truck fleet electrification is edging into South African operations. From retail delivery vans to long-haul trials, the shift is real, albeit in its early stages. Infrastructure gaps, cost pressures and operational questions remain but WesBank, in partnership with FNB, tackled these issues head-on recently at the first ‘EVolution’ event.
Hosted at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, medium and large fleet operators drove the latest battery electric, hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. They heard how to finance EVs (electric vehicles), learned from early adopters and connected with suppliers across the EV value chain.
“Fleet electrification in South Africa is still in its developmental stages, with much of the current work focused on pilot projects across various industries. Our EVolution event provided a platform to address the uncertainties that hinder widespread adoption and offer practical insights based on local and global experiences,” said Linda Cele, WesBank Products Head Key Accounts & Partnerships: Fleet Management and Leasing.
EV testing in real-world operations
Pilots showcased at the event included logistics fleets in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, retailers testing electric vans, mining companies trialing buses and heavy-duty units and municipalities exploring e-buses for public transport. Delegates also saw tools to track total cost of ownership, cut emissions and use telematics for efficiency gains.
Global momentum framed the local picture. The International Council on Clean Transportation says many governments are phasing out ICE sales. GreenCape points to rising fuel prices making EVs more competitive. Worldwide EV sales hit 17 million in 2024, up from 14 million in 2023.
“WesBank is proud of its efforts in moving the industry forward. We remain committed to supporting South African businesses in their transition to electric mobility, providing the expertise, financial solutions and industry connections necessary to navigate this transformative journey successfully,” concluded Cele.
Editor’s comment: In truck fleet procurement, caution is often the better part of efficiency. Jump too soon and you risk costly missteps. Wait too long and the market will move without you. The smart money is on careful pilots now, building knowledge and readiness before the tipping point arrives.
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