By Lebone Rodah Mosima
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), in collaboration with the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), the Uyilo e-Mobility Programme at Nelson Mandela University (NMU), and Volvo Cars South Africa, has launched the e-Mobility Energy Drive, a landmark initiative aimed at demonstrating the viability of electric vehicles (EVs) for long-distance travel in South Africa.
Taking place from 28–30 October 2025, the Energy Drive will culminate at the Uyilo e-Mobility Innovation Summit in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. According to the DSTI, the summit is a flagship Transport Month event showcasing South Africa’s progress toward a sustainable mobility future.
The vehicle undertaking the drive—a Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin Motor Ultimate—will collect real-world data on EV performance, charging efficiency, and energy consumption over a route stretching from Johannesburg to Gqeberha, crossing Gauteng, the Free State, and the Eastern Cape.
“This initiative proves that clean mobility is not just a vision for the future, it is happening now,” said Mandy Mlilo, Acting Chief Director: Hydrogen and Energy at DSTI.
“Through strategic partnerships with SANEDI, Uyilo and Volvo, we are building public confidence in electric mobility, advancing our just energy transition goals and reducing our national carbon footprint.”Â
The department and SANEDI said the Energy Drive will also raise public awareness around clean mobility and engage communities along the route.
A senior representative from the Uyilo e-Mobility Programme said the Energy Drive and Summit will serve as a powerful platform for collaboration between government, academia, and industry.
“The Uyilo e-Mobility Summit and this Energy Drive create a powerful platform to accelerate collaboration across government, academia, and industry,” said the senior representative from the Uyilo e-Mobility Programme.
“As we mark Transport Month, we are proud to position South Africa as an emerging leader in the global shift toward smart, sustainable mobility.”Â
SANEDI CEO Dr. Titus Mathe added that the initiative highlights the nation’s growing capacity and commitment to cleaner transportation.
“This partnership reflects our nation’s growing capacity and commitment to cleaner transportation. By aligning research, innovation, and public engagement, we are driving tangible progress toward a low-carbon, energy-efficient future,” Mathe said.
The DSTI and SANEDI further said that the e-Mobility Energy Drive underscores South Africa’s commitment to building a resilient, sustainable transport ecosystem that supports economic growth, environmental sustainability, and energy justice.
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