Electric Cars – Electric vehicles (EVs) have officially entered the mainstream in South Africa. What was once considered a niche market dominated by luxury brands like Tesla and BMW is now being transformed by the sudden rise of affordable Chinese EV brands such as BYD, Chery, and Great Wall Motors (GWM). As of July 2025, these three manufacturers together command 3% of the national vehicle market share – a figure that’s even more impressive considering it was just 0.4% in 2023. So, what’s behind this dramatic shift? Why are South Africans suddenly ditching petrol and diesel cars in favour of EVs from relatively new entrants to the market? The answer lies in a mix of government policy changes, rolling blackouts, reduced fuel subsidies, high petrol prices, and an aggressive push by Chinese brands offering reliable EVs at prices far lower than Western competitors. In a country plagued by energy insecurity, many buyers initially hesitated to go electric. But thanks to backup battery tech bundled with EVs, increased charging stations, and solar-compatible home systems, consumer confidence is soaring. Add to that the reduced cost of ownership, zero road tax on EVs (in several provinces), and environmental awareness campaigns, and it’s easy to see why the switch is happening at record speed. This article explores the rise of electric cars in South Africa, the reasons behind their adoption, the models currently dominating the market, and whether this momentum will continue into 2026 and beyond.
What’s Driving the Electric Cars Boom in South Africa?
Several key factors have contributed to the explosion in EV adoption across South Africa, especially between 2023 and 2025.
- Massive fuel price hikes (up by 21% since 2022)
- Load shedding relief from solar-charged EVs
- Elimination of VAT on EV imports in 2024
- Government subsidies up to R80,000 on select EV models
- Expansion of charging infrastructure in metros and along national highways
- Awareness campaigns by the Department of Energy
- Extended warranties and free service plans by Chinese EV brands
Key Milestones That Boosted Electric Cars Growth in SA
The following timeline highlights major events that pushed EV adoption forward in the last 3 years:
| Year | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Petrol price reaches R27/litre | Sparked demand for alternatives |
| 2023 | EV import VAT waived | Slashed prices by 10–15% |
| 2023 | BYD, GWM, Chery open local showrooms | Increased visibility and trust |
| 2024 | Free public charging in 30+ locations | Lowered range anxiety |
| 2024 | Eskom introduces EV time-of-use rates | Made home charging cheaper |
| 2025 | 3% market share milestone reached | Signaled industry breakthrough |
| 2025 | EV charging stations expanded to all national N-roads | Enabled long-distance EV travel |
| 2025 | R80,000 subsidy announced for local EV assembly | Local production set to begin |
BYD, Chery & GWM – How They Took Over South Africa’s Electric Cars Scene
These three brands offered a mix of affordability, tech, and accessibility. Here’s why they’re thriving.
- BYD offered the cheapest electric SUV in South Africa – starting at R449,000
- Chery introduced a plug-in hybrid with 1,200km range at petrol prices under R2/km
- GWM’s Ora Cat was launched with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty
- All brands allowed trade-ins of ICE vehicles for up to R150,000 bonus value
- Local dealerships provided free home EV charger installations
- Monthly installment plans started as low as R3,999/month for base models
Best-Selling Models as of July 2025
| Brand | Model | Price (Starting) | Range (KM) | Warranty | Monthly Installment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD | Atto 3 | R449,000 | 420 KM | 8 years / 160,000 KM | R3,999 |
| GWM | Ora Cat | R489,000 | 400 KM | 5 years / Unlimited | R4,299 |
| Chery | Tiggo EV | R479,000 | 450 KM | 7 years / 150,000 KM | R4,199 |
| BYD | Dolphin | R399,000 | 340 KM | 8 years / 160,000 KM | R3,499 |
| GWM | P Series EV | R529,000 | 430 KM | 5 years / Unlimited | R4,499 |
| Chery | QQ Ice EV | R359,000 | 310 KM | 5 years / 120,000 KM | R3,299 |
Infrastructure Catching Up Fast: Charging Network Expansion
One of the major reasons for slow EV adoption in the past was lack of charging stations. That’s no longer the case.
- Over 1,000 public charging points installed in 2024 alone
- Ultra-fast charging now available on major routes: Joburg – Durban, Cape Town – Bloemfontein
- Charging stations now located at 70% of South African malls
- EV time-of-use charging saves 40% on monthly electricity bills
- Home solar and battery bundles offered with car purchase
Provinces With Highest Charging Coverage in 2025
| Province | Charging Points | EV Sales Growth YoY |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | 420 | 127% |
| Western Cape | 210 | 98% |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 160 | 104% |
| Eastern Cape | 85 | 78% |
| Free State | 60 | 65% |
| Limpopo | 42 | 59% |
| North West | 39 | 53% |
Are Electric Cars Cheaper Than Petrol Vehicles?
While upfront costs remain slightly higher, the lifetime savings are dramatic.
- EVs cost 70% less to maintain (no oil changes, fewer moving parts)
- Electricity costs per km are 40–60% lower than petrol
- No license renewal fees for EVs in many provinces
- Tax rebates up to R20,000 for home solar installation
- Most EVs include 5-year roadside assistance and maintenance packages
Estimated 5-Year Ownership Cost: EV vs Petrol Car
| Expense Type | Electric Vehicle | Petrol Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel/Energy | R48,000 | R142,000 |
| Maintenance & Service | R12,000 | R36,000 |
| Licensing & Tax | R2,000 | R9,500 |
| Insurance | R30,000 | R30,000 |
| Total (5 Years) | R92,000 | R217,500 |
Challenges Still Facing the EV Industry
Despite the growth, several issues persist and may slow expansion if left unaddressed.
- Battery replacements after 8–10 years remain expensive (R120,000+)
- Rural infrastructure is still underdeveloped for EVs
- Lack of skilled mechanics outside major cities
- Limited second-hand EV market affects affordability for low-income groups
What Government Plans for 2026
To address existing concerns and accelerate growth, the Department of Transport has unveiled plans for:
- 10 new assembly plants for EVs by mid-2026
- Battery recycling centers in 6 provinces
- Mandatory EV-compatible infrastructure in all new buildings
- EV driving license awareness programs in schools
- Import duty exemption extension until 2027
Local Assembly Could Cut Prices by 20%
If local manufacturing ramps up as planned, South Africans could see EV prices drop below R400,000 on average by 2026. This could finally make EVs accessible to the middle and lower-middle class, unlocking even faster adoption.
Is This the End of Petrol Cars?
While ICE vehicles won’t disappear overnight, the tide is clearly turning. With fuel prices rising and government support tilting heavily in favor of electric options, petrol vehicles are slowly losing their long-held dominance.
South Africa’s electric vehicle revolution is well underway. With a 3% market share milestone achieved and demand continuing to grow, it’s clear that EVs are no longer a luxury – they’re fast becoming a necessity. If infrastructure, policy, and pricing trends continue in this direction, South Africa could see EVs capture 10% or more of the market by 2027. Whether for environmental reasons, economic savings, or energy independence, South Africans are making the switch – and fast.
FAQs About Electric Vehicles in South Africa
1. Can I charge my EV during load shedding?
Yes, most EVs can be charged using solar systems or backup batteries.
2. What is the average cost of a new EV in South Africa?
Entry-level EVs start from around R399,000.
3. Are there any government incentives for EV buyers?
Yes, buyers can get up to R80,000 in subsidies and tax reliefs.
4. How far can a typical EV drive on a full charge?
Most EVs offer between 300 to 450 KM per full charge.
5. Is it expensive to maintain an electric car?
No, EVs are 60–70% cheaper to maintain than petrol cars.