This article explores the growing electric vehicle market in South Africa, highlighting the affordability of EV models under R500,000. It analyzes the factors influencing EV adoption, such as price, range, and practicality, and provides a list of six EVs available within this budget.
South Africa's electric vehicle (EV) market saw continued growth in 2024, with 1,179 new fully-electric cars sold in the first 11 months, compared to 929 for the entire year 2023. However, this still represents a small fraction of the overall new car market, which surpassed 470,000 sales during the same period. While concerns about energy security and range have diminished for some potential buyers, the high cost of EVs remains a significant barrier to wider adoption.
Although EVs often boast greater power, faster acceleration, and advanced technology compared to similarly priced gasoline cars, many consumers prioritize practicality. In this regard, EVs can sometimes fall short, particularly in terms of interior space when compared to their gasoline counterparts in the same price range. However, EV prices have become more accessible in recent years, especially in the used market. A recent analysis of new and used EV listings on popular online platforms like AutoTrader South Africa and Cars.co.za revealed several viable options for buyers with a budget of R500,000. The most affordable option identified was the EV Africa City Blitz, a rebranded Jiayuan Eidola, priced from R229,900 used with 150km on the odometer or R239,900 new. This ultra-compact, 2-door, 4-seater is best suited for urban commuting, with a modest 7.5kW peak output and a claimed range of 160km. Its top speed of 80km/h makes it unsuitable for South African highways.Despite the EV's limitations, a number of Mini Cooper SE models were also found selling for under R500,000, with the cheapest being a 2020 model with 97,000km for R323,900. Notably, a 2024 GWM Ora 300 Super Luxury with 17,500km on the clock was observed with significant depreciation.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES SOUTH AFRICA AUTOMOTIVE MARKET EV PRICES SUSTAINABILITY
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
South Africa: How South African Women Navigate Gender Issues on TikTokThe Centre for Analytics and Behavioural Change (CABC) has released its latest report, Gender-Based Violence and Misogyny TikTok Analytics and Narrative Update in South Africa, on the online conversation regarding gender-based violence and misogyny.
Read more »
South Africa and Rwanda Battle for Africa's Sole Formula 1 Grand Prix SlotSouth Africa and Rwanda are vying for the opportunity to host the return of Formula 1 to Africa, with the two countries making bids to bring the grand prix back to the continent after a 32-year absence.
Read more »
South Africa Leads Africa in Identity Document Fraud, Home Affairs Urges Migration to Smart ID CardSouth Africa is number one on the continent when it comes to identity document fraud, and Home Affairs has urged citizens to switch to the Smart ID Card.
Read more »
R500,000 in Goods Confiscated in Limpopo River Smuggling BustSAPS seizes goods worth R500,000 during a smuggling operation along the Limpopo River. The incident sparks divided reactions on social media.
Read more »
South Africa's Role in Africa's Gun Violence Under ScrutinySouth Africa faces criticism for its contribution to gun violence in Africa, with arms exports and civilian gun ownership fueling criminal activity and conflicts across the continent. The Gun Free South Africa (GFSA) and the African Union (AU) have launched a joint initiative to combat the spread of firearms, aiming to reduce both supply and demand through strengthened controls and addressing root causes.
Read more »
Former School Financial Officer Sentenced for Embezzling Over R500,000Lilian Lynette Rieger Adonis, a financial officer at Fort Beaufort Primary School, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for stealing more than R500,000 from the school between January 2017 and July 2018. Investigations revealed that Adonis failed to deposit school funds within the required timeframe, leaving some unbanked for up to 80 days. Despite denying any knowledge of the missing funds, evidence pointed to Adonis as the sole handler of the school's finances.
Read more »