South Africa Electric Cars Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2029

The South Africa Electric Cars Market is segmented by Vehicle Configuration (Passenger Cars) and by Fuel Category (BEV, FCEV, HEV, PHEV). The report offers market size in both market value in USD and market volume in unit. Further, the report includes a market split by Vehicle Type, Vehicle Configuration, Vehicle Body Type, Propulsion Type, and Fuel Category.

South Africa Electric Cars Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2029

South Africa Electric Cars Market Size

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South Africa Electric Cars Market Summary
Study Period 2017 - 2029
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2029
Market Size (2025) USD 3.53 Billion
Market Size (2029) USD 5.77 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2029) 13.04 %
Market Concentration High

Major Players

South Africa Electric Cars Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

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South Africa Electric Cars Market Analysis

The South Africa Electric Cars Market size is estimated at 3.53 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 5.77 billion USD by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 13.04% during the forecast period (2025-2029).

South Africa's electric vehicle industry is undergoing a significant transformation as the country adapts to global automotive trends and environmental imperatives. The nation's growing population, reaching 61.528 million in 2023, has created an expanding consumer base for automotive products, including electric vehicles in South Africa. The government has implemented supportive policies to accelerate EV adoption, most notably reducing import duties on electric passenger vehicles from 25% to 15%, making them more competitive against traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. This policy shift reflects South Africa's commitment to sustainable mobility while addressing affordability concerns that have historically hindered EV adoption.


The EV charging infrastructure landscape is evolving rapidly to support the growing EV ecosystem. As of 2022, South Africa maintained 300 public charging stations, comprising 140 slow charging and 160 fast charging points, primarily concentrated in urban centers and major highways. Private sector initiatives are driving infrastructure expansion, exemplified by Audi South Africa's 2023 collaboration with GridCars to deploy ultrafast charging stations nationwide, marking a significant milestone as the first electric vehicle brand to introduce this technology in the country. This development signals a broader industry trend toward addressing range anxiety concerns through strategic infrastructure investments.


Technological advancements and cost optimization are reshaping the market dynamics, particularly in battery technology. The industry has witnessed a steady decline in battery pack prices, dropping from 186 USD/kWh in 2022, with projections indicating further reductions to 156 USD/kWh by 2025. This trend is crucial for achieving price parity with conventional vehicles and accelerating mass-market adoption. Manufacturing capabilities are also expanding, as evidenced by BMW South Africa's announcement to electrify its Rosslyn plant in Pretoria by 2024, demonstrating the industry's commitment to local production and electric mobility solutions.


The competitive landscape is experiencing significant shifts as both established manufacturers and new entrants vie for market share. Traditional automakers are expanding their electric vehicle portfolios, while new players like JAC Motors are entering the market with innovative offerings such as the T9, positioned to become South Africa's first battery electric vehicle. The government's introduction of mobility programs with funding up to ZAR 1 million for collaborative projects further demonstrates the public sector's commitment to fostering innovation and competition in the electric vehicle market in South Africa. These developments are creating a more diverse and competitive market environment, ultimately benefiting consumers through increased choice and improved value propositions.

Segment Analysis: Vehicle Configuration

Hatchback Segment in South African Electric Cars Market

The hatchback segment dominates the South African electric cars market, commanding approximately 67% market share in 2024. This significant market position can be attributed to several factors, including the segment's appeal to urban consumers seeking compact, efficient vehicles for city driving. Hatchbacks offer an optimal balance of practicality, affordability, and maneuverability, making them particularly attractive to first-time passenger electric vehicle buyers. The segment's strong performance is further supported by increasing model availability from major manufacturers, competitive pricing strategies, and growing consumer acceptance of electric mobility solutions in the compact car segment. Additionally, government incentives and the expanding charging infrastructure network have helped boost consumer confidence in electric hatchbacks as viable daily drivers.

Market Analysis of South Africa Electric Cars Market: Chart for Vehicle Configuration

Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) Segment in South African Electric Cars Market

The Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in South Africa's electric cars market, with projections indicating substantial growth potential from 2024 to 2029. This remarkable growth trajectory is driven by increasing demand for versatile family vehicles that combine the benefits of electrification with practical space utilization. The segment's expansion is supported by new model introductions from major manufacturers, who are incorporating advanced electric powertrain technologies into their MPV offerings. Enhanced battery technologies, improved range capabilities, and the segment's ability to meet diverse consumer needs from family transportation to commercial electric vehicle applications are contributing to its accelerated growth. The MPV segment is also benefiting from evolving consumer preferences towards vehicles that offer maximum utility while maintaining environmental consciousness.

Remaining Segments in Vehicle Configuration

The electric sedan and electric SUV segments complete the South African electric vehicle market landscape, each bringing unique value propositions to consumers. The electric sedan segment maintains its appeal among business users and luxury vehicle buyers, offering sophisticated design and comfort features while embracing battery electric vehicle technology. Meanwhile, the electric SUV segment continues to attract consumers seeking higher ground clearance and robust capabilities, with manufacturers increasingly introducing electric variants of popular models. Both segments are witnessing technological advancements in terms of range, charging capabilities, and overall performance, contributing to the market's diversification and maturity. The presence of these segments ensures that the South African electric vehicle market caters to a wide range of consumer preferences and use cases.

Segment Analysis: Fuel Category

BEV Segment in South Africa Electric Cars Market

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) maintain their dominant position in South Africa's electric car market, commanding approximately 47% market share in 2024. This leadership position is primarily driven by increasing consumer acceptance, government support through tax incentives, and the expanding charging infrastructure network across major urban centers. Major automotive manufacturers are actively expanding their BEV portfolios in South Africa, with companies like Volkswagen, Toyota, and BMW introducing new models tailored for the local market. The segment's growth is further supported by declining battery costs, improving vehicle range capabilities, and rising environmental consciousness among South African consumers. Additionally, the government's commitment to installing over 1,500 new charging stations annually until 2030 is strengthening the BEV ecosystem, making these vehicles increasingly practical for everyday use.

FCEV Segment in South Africa Electric Cars Market

The Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in South Africa's electric car market, with projections indicating an impressive growth rate of approximately 32% from 2024 to 2029. This remarkable growth trajectory is supported by significant investments in hydrogen infrastructure development and increasing interest from both public and private sectors in hydrogen technology. The segment's expansion is further bolstered by partnerships between automotive manufacturers and energy companies to establish hydrogen refueling networks. Major automakers are announcing plans to introduce new FCEV models specifically designed for the South African market, while government initiatives supporting clean energy technologies are creating a favorable environment for FCEV adoption. The technology's advantages in terms of quick refueling times and longer range capabilities compared to traditional BEVs are attracting commercial fleet operators and luxury vehicle segments.

Remaining Segments in Fuel Category

The Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) segments continue to play crucial roles in South Africa's transition to electric mobility. HEVs serve as an attractive entry point for consumers hesitant to switch directly to fully electric vehicles, offering improved fuel efficiency without charging infrastructure dependency. Meanwhile, PHEVs bridge the gap between conventional hybrids and full electric vehicles, providing the flexibility of both electric and gasoline-powered driving. These segments are particularly popular among urban commuters and environmentally conscious consumers who seek to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining the convenience of traditional fuel infrastructure. Both segments benefit from established manufacturer support, with major automotive brands continuing to expand their hybrid offerings in the South African market.

South Africa Electric Cars Industry Overview

Top Companies in South Africa Electric Cars Market

The South African electric vehicle market features a mix of established global automakers making strategic moves to capture market share. Companies are focusing on expanding their electric vehicle portfolios through continuous product innovation, particularly in the battery electric vehicle (BEV) and hybrid segments. Operational agility is demonstrated through flexible manufacturing capabilities and localized production facilities, with several manufacturers investing in upgrading their South African plants for EV production. Strategic partnerships for charging infrastructure development have become increasingly common, as exemplified by collaborations between automakers and charging network providers. Companies are also expanding their dealer networks and service centers across major South African cities to enhance customer accessibility and after-sales support. The market is characterized by significant investments in research and development, particularly in areas of battery technology and vehicle range improvement.

Consolidated Market with Strong Global Players

The South African electric cars market exhibits a high level of consolidation, with major global automotive manufacturers dominating the landscape. Toyota Motor Corporation leads the market with significant market share, followed by other established players like BMW AG, Volvo Car AB, and Audi AG. These companies leverage their global manufacturing capabilities, established brand presence, and extensive dealer networks to maintain their market positions. The market structure favors large conglomerates that can invest heavily in electric vehicle components technology and infrastructure development.


The market shows a limited presence of local manufacturers, with international players controlling most of the market share through their subsidiary operations. Merger and acquisition activities remain relatively limited, with companies focusing more on strategic partnerships and joint ventures, particularly in areas of charging infrastructure development and battery technology. The competitive dynamics are shaped by the ability of companies to offer comprehensive electric vehicle portfolios while maintaining competitive pricing despite import duties and logistics costs.

Innovation and Infrastructure Drive Future Success

For incumbent players to maintain and increase their market share, focus needs to be placed on developing affordable electric vehicle options suited to the South African market conditions. Companies must invest in localizing their production facilities to reduce costs and improve price competitiveness. Building strong relationships with government bodies and participating in policy development will be crucial for navigating regulatory frameworks. Additionally, establishing comprehensive charging networks and after-sales service infrastructure will be essential for long-term success.


Contending companies looking to gain ground must differentiate themselves through innovative technology offerings and competitive pricing strategies. The risk of substitution from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles remains significant due to price sensitivity in the market, requiring companies to clearly demonstrate the long-term value proposition of electric vehicles. Success will also depend on the ability to navigate regulatory requirements, particularly regarding local content requirements and emission standards. Companies must also consider the concentrated nature of the urban market while planning their expansion strategies, focusing on key metropolitan areas while gradually expanding to other regions. The presence of electric vehicle manufacturers in South Africa is crucial for the growth of the electric cars market in South Africa, as they contribute to the development of clean vehicle technologies and infrastructure.

South Africa Electric Cars Market Leaders

  1. Audi AG

  2. Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

  3. Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz AG)

  4. Toyota Motor Corporation

  5. Volvo Car AB

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
South Africa Electric Cars Market Concentration
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South Africa Electric Cars Market News

  • August 2023: In 2024, Toyota Argentina is set to commence production of the Hiace at its Zárate plant. Simultaneously, the company plans to expand the scope of its Conversions division. This division is responsible for crafting vehicles tailored to meet the unique requirements of diverse customers.
  • August 2023: The Dubai Police Department placed an electric Mercedes EQS 580 on its fleet of luxury cars and environmentally conscious vehicles to patrol the streets.
  • August 2023: Tesla introduced its car insurance services in California, the United States.

Free With This Report

For the Vehicle Hub report, we provide an extensive collection of over 150 free charts, delivering detailed insights on regional and country-level dynamics within the vehicle industry. This encompasses in-depth analyses of vehicle registrations, usage patterns in both consumer and business segments, and evaluations of various vehicle configurations and body types. The report delves into critical industrial trends such as shifts in vehicle production and distribution centers, changes in vehicle ownership costs, and advancements in automotive technologies. Further, our report offers comprehensive market segmentation by vehicle type, body type, propulsion, and fuel categories, providing a nuanced understanding of the market landscape. It also explores the adoption rate of new technologies, the impact of regulatory changes, and the influence of economic factors on the vehicle market. We include a thorough examination of key industry players, regulatory frameworks, and market size in terms of both revenue and unit sales, leading to strategic projections and forecasts that account for emerging trends and potential shifts in the industry.

South Africa Electric Cars Market
South Africa Electric Cars Market
South Africa Electric Cars Market
South Africa Electric Cars Market

South Africa Electric Cars Market Report - Table of Contents

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS

2. REPORT OFFERS

3. INTRODUCTION

  • 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
  • 3.2 Scope of the Study​
  • 3.3 Research Methodology

4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 4.1 Population
  • 4.2 GDP Per Capita
  • 4.3 Consumer Spending For Vehicle Purchase (cvp)
  • 4.4 Inflation
  • 4.5 Interest Rate For Auto Loans
  • 4.6 Shared Rides
  • 4.7 Impact Of Electrification
  • 4.8 EV Charging Station
  • 4.9 Battery Pack Price
  • 4.10 New Xev Models Announced
  • 4.11 Used Car Sales
  • 4.12 Fuel Price
  • 4.13 Oem-wise Production Statistics
  • 4.14 Regulatory Framework
  • 4.15 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis

5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, Forecasts up to 2029 and analysis of growth prospects)

  • 5.1 Vehicle Configuration
    • 5.1.1 Passenger Cars
    • 5.1.1.1 Hatchback
    • 5.1.1.2 Multi-purpose Vehicle
    • 5.1.1.3 Sedan
    • 5.1.1.4 Sports Utility Vehicle
  • 5.2 Fuel Category
    • 5.2.1 BEV
    • 5.2.2 FCEV
    • 5.2.3 HEV
    • 5.2.4 PHEV

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
  • 6.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.3 Company Landscape
  • 6.4 Company Profiles
    • 6.4.1 Audi AG
    • 6.4.2 Bayerische Motoren Werke AG
    • 6.4.3 Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz AG)
    • 6.4.4 Ferrari NV
    • 6.4.5 Honda Motor Co. Ltd.
    • 6.4.6 Jaguar Land Rover Limited
    • 6.4.7 Porsche
    • 6.4.8 Toyota Motor Corporation
    • 6.4.9 Volvo Car AB
  • *List Not Exhaustive

7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR VEHICLES CEOS

8. APPENDIX

  • 8.1 Global Overview
    • 8.1.1 Overview
    • 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
    • 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
    • 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
  • 8.2 Sources & References
  • 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
  • 8.4 Primary Insights
  • 8.5 Data Pack
  • 8.6 Glossary of Terms
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List of Tables & Figures

  1. Figure 1:  
  2. POPULATION TRENDS, VOLUME IN UNITS, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 2:  
  2. GDP PER CAPITA AT CURRENT PRICES, VALUE IN USD, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 3:  
  2. AVERAGE CONSUMER SPENDING PER CAPITA ON PURCHASE OF VEHICLES, VALUE IN USD, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 4:  
  2. INFLATION RATE AT AVERAGE CONSUMER PRICES, PERCENTAGE CHANGE, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 5:  
  2. AUTO LOAN INTEREST RATES, PERCENTAGE, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2022
  1. Figure 6:  
  2. USED CAR MARKET, REVENUE IN USD, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 7:  
  2. ELECTRIC VEHICLE MARKET PENETRATION RATE, BY VEHICLE TYPE, PERCENTAGE OF VOLUME, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 8:  
  2. CHARGING STATION DEPLOYMENT, BY TYPE, VOLUME IN UNITS, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2022
  1. Figure 9:  
  2. AVERAGE LITHIUM-ION BATTERY PACK PRICE, VALUE IN USD, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 10:  
  2. ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEW XEV MODELS, BY VEHICLE TYPE, VOLUME IN UNITS, SOUTH AFRICA, 2023 - 2027
  1. Figure 11:  
  2. USED CAR MARKET, REVENUE IN USD, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 12:  
  2. FUEL PRICE, BY FUEL TYPE, USD/LITER, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2022
  1. Figure 13:  
  2. OEM-WISE PRODUCTION STATISTICS, VOLUME IN UNITS, SOUTH AFRICA, 2017 - 2022
  1. Figure 14:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 15:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 16:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 17:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 18:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 19:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 20:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY HATCHBACK, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 21:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY HATCHBACK, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 22:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 23:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLE, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 24:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLE, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 25:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 26:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY SEDAN, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 27:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY SEDAN, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 28:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 29:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY SPORTS UTILITY VEHICLE, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 30:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY SPORTS UTILITY VEHICLE, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 31:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY VEHICLE BODY TYPE, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 32:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY FUEL CATEGORY, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 33:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY FUEL CATEGORY, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 34:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY FUEL CATEGORY, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 35:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY FUEL CATEGORY, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 36:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY BEV, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 37:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY BEV, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 38:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY FUEL CATEGORY, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 39:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY FCEV, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 40:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY FCEV, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 41:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY FUEL CATEGORY, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 42:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY HEV, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 43:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY HEV, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 44:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY FUEL CATEGORY, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 45:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY PHEV, BY VOLUME IN UNITS, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 46:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, BY PHEV, BY VALUE IN USD, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 47:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET MARKET, SHARE(%), BY FUEL CATEGORY, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 48:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, MOST ACTIVE COMPANIES, BY NUMBER OF STRATEGIC MOVES, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 49:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET, MOST ADOPTED STRATEGIES, 2017 - 2030
  1. Figure 50:  
  2. SOUTH AFRICA ELECTRIC CARS MARKET SHARE(%), BY MAJOR PLAYERS

South Africa Electric Cars Industry Segmentation

Passenger Cars are covered as segments by Vehicle Configuration. BEV, FCEV, HEV, PHEV are covered as segments by Fuel Category.
Vehicle Configuration Passenger Cars Hatchback
Multi-purpose Vehicle
Sedan
Sports Utility Vehicle
Fuel Category BEV
FCEV
HEV
PHEV
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Market Definition

  • Vehicle Type - The category includes passenger cars.
  • Vehicle Body Type - This include various body types such as Hatchbacks, Sedans, Sports Utility Vehicles, and Multi-purpose Vehicles.
  • Fuel Category - The category exclusively covers electric propulsion systems, including various types such as HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicles), PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles), BEV (Battery Electric Vehicles), and FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles).
Keyword Definition
Electric Vehicle (EV) A vehicle which uses one or more electric motors for propulsion. Includes cars, buses, and trucks. This term includes all-electric vehicles or battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
BEV A BEV relies completely on a battery and a motor for propulsion. The battery in the vehicle must be charged by plugging it into an outlet or public charging station. BEVs do not have an ICE and hence are pollution-free. They have a low cost of operation and reduced engine noise as compared to conventional fuel engines. However, they have a shorter range and higher prices than their equivalent gasoline models.
PEV A plug-in electric vehicle is an electric vehicle that can be externally charged and generally includes all-electric vehicles as well as plug-in hybrids.
Plug-in Hybrid EV A vehicle that can be powered either by an ICE or an electric motor. In contrast to normal hybrid EVs, they can be charged externally.
Internal combustion engine An engine in which the burning of fuels occurs in a confined space called a combustion chamber. Usually run with gasoline/petrol or diesel.
Hybrid EV A vehicle powered by an ICE in combination with one or more electric motors that use energy stored in batteries. These are continually recharged with power from the ICE and regenerative braking.
Commercial Vehicles Commercial vehicles are motorized road vehicles designed for transporting people or goods. The category includes light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and medium and heavy-duty vehicles (M&HCV).
Passenger Vehicles Passenger cars are electric motor– or engine-driven vehicles with at least four wheels. These vehicles are used for the transport of passengers and comprise no more than eight seats in addition to the driver’s seat.
Light Commercial Vehicles Commercial vehicles that weigh less than 6,000 lb (Class 1) and in the range of 6,001–10,000 lb (Class 2) are covered under this category.
M&HDT Commercial vehicles that weigh in the range of 10,001–14,000 lb (Class 3), 14,001–16,000 lb (Class 4), 16,001–19,500 lb (Class 5), 19,501–26,000 lb (Class 6), 26,001–33,000 lb (Class 7) and above 33,001 lb (Class 8) are covered under this category.
Bus A mode of transportation that typically refers to a large vehicle designed to carry passengers over long distances. This includes transit bus, school bus, shuttle bus, and trolleybuses.
Diesel It includes vehicles that use diesel as their primary fuel. A diesel engine vehicle have a compression-ignited injection system rather than the spark-ignited system used by most gasoline vehicles. In such vehicles, fuel is injected into the combustion chamber and ignited by the high temperature achieved when gas is greatly compressed.
Gasoline It includes vehicles that use gas/petrol as their primary fuel. A gasoline car typically uses a spark-ignited internal combustion engine. In such vehicles, fuel is injected into either the intake manifold or the combustion chamber, where it is combined with air, and the air/fuel mixture is ignited by the spark from a spark plug.
LPG It includes vehicles that use LPG as their primary fuel. Both dedicated and bi-fuel LPG vehicles are considered under the scope of the study.
CNG It includes vehicles that use CNG as their primary fuel. These are vehicles that operate like gasoline-powered vehicles with spark-ignited internal combustion engines.
HEV All the electric vehicles that use batteries and an internal combustion engine (ICE) as their primary source for propulsion are considered under this category. HEVs generally use a diesel-electric powertrain and are also known as hybrid diesel-electric vehicles. An HEV converts the vehicle momentum (kinetic energy) into electricity that recharges the battery when the vehicle slows down or stops. The battery of HEV cannot be charged using plug-in devices.
PHEV PHEVs are powered by a battery as well as an ICE. The battery can be charged through either regenerative breaking using the ICE or by plugging into some external charging source. PHEVs have a better range than BEVs but are comparatively less eco-friendly.
Hatchback These are compact-sized cars with a hatch-type door provided at the rear end.
Sedan These are usually two- or four-door passenger cars, with a separate area provided at the rear end for luggage.
SUV Popularly known as SUVs, these cars come with four-wheel drive, and usually have high ground clearance. These cars can also be used as off-road vehicles.
MPV These are multi-purpose vehicles (also called minivans) designed to carry a larger number of passengers. They carry between five and seven people and have room for luggage too. They are usually taller than the average family saloon car, to provide greater headroom and ease of access, and they are usually front-wheel drive.
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Research Methodology

Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all its reports.

  • Step-1: Identify Key Variables: To build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step-1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set and the model is built based on these variables.
  • Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the historical and forecast years have been provided in revenue and volume terms. Market revenue is calculated by multiplying the sales volume with their respective average selling price (ASP). While estimating ASP factors like average inflation, market demand shift, manufacturing cost, technological advancement, and varying consumer preference, among others have been taken into account.
  • Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables, and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
  • Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms.
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South Africa Electric Cars Market Research FAQs

How big is the South Africa Electric Cars Market?

The South Africa Electric Cars Market size is expected to reach USD 3.53 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 13.04% to reach USD 5.77 billion by 2029.

What is the current South Africa Electric Cars Market size?

In 2025, the South Africa Electric Cars Market size is expected to reach USD 3.53 billion.

Who are the key players in South Africa Electric Cars Market?

Audi AG, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz AG), Toyota Motor Corporation and Volvo Car AB are the major companies operating in the South Africa Electric Cars Market.

Which segment has the biggest share in the South Africa Electric Cars Market?

In the South Africa Electric Cars Market, the Hatchback segment accounts for the largest share by vehicle body type.

Which is the fastest growing segment in the South Africa Electric Cars Market?

In 2025, the Sports Utility Vehicle segment accounts for the fastest growing by vehicle body type in the South Africa Electric Cars Market.

What years does this South Africa Electric Cars Market cover, and what was the market size in 2025?

In 2025, the South Africa Electric Cars Market size was estimated at 3.53 billion. The report covers the South Africa Electric Cars Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the South Africa Electric Cars Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.

South Africa Electric Cars Market Research

Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the South Africa electric cars market. We leverage our extensive experience in electric vehicle research and consulting. Our detailed report examines the evolving landscape of electric vehicles in South Africa. It covers everything from Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) to commercial electric vehicles and luxury electric vehicles. The analysis includes electric SUVs, electric sedans, and emerging zero emission vehicle technologies. Particular attention is given to electric mobility solutions and sustainable mobility initiatives.

Stakeholders gain valuable insights into the market penetration of electric vehicles and electric vehicle components. This includes a detailed analysis of electric powertrain technologies and the development of EV charging infrastructure. The report, available as an easy-to-download PDF, provides comprehensive coverage of electric cars coming to South Africa 2024. It examines alternative fuel vehicle adoption trends. Our research supports decision-making across the electric transportation ecosystem. This ranges from urban electric vehicle deployment to new energy vehicle innovations. It offers stakeholders a clear understanding of clean vehicle technologies and their implementation in the South African context.

South Africa Electric Cars Market Report Snapshots