South Africa BEV sales up 230% year on year but still under 1% of market, says Naamsa

Battery electric vehicle sales in South Africa grew approximately 230% year on year, according to the latest Naamsa figures, though BEVs still account for less than 1% of the local market. Peter van Binsbergen, writing in a commentary piece, highlights the recent launch of the Charge N3 Roadside ultra-fast charging station at Leeukop farm stall in the Free State as progress in charging infrastructure rollout. He argues that a clear government and industry strategy, alongside expanded charging infrastructure at shopping centres and along highways, is essential to drive higher EV adoption rates in South Africa.

Why it matters: Despite triple digit growth, South Africa's sub 1% BEV market share underscores the chicken and egg challenge facing charge point operators: infrastructure investment depends on adoption, yet adoption hinges on visible, convenient charging networks. The Charge N3 station example signals early corridor buildout, a critical step for CPOs targeting long distance and commercial fleet segments in the region.