Eskom has taken a visible step toward sustainable transport with the launch of its first 20 electric vehicles (EVs), placing the Distribution Division at the forefront of the initiative. The event, held on 9 September 2025, featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, demonstrations from technical experts, and test drives, highlighting both the operational and environmental advantages of EV adoption.
The vehicles, which range from light delivery vans to small trucks, are intended for use primarily within Eskom’s Distribution and Generation Divisions. They are part of a broader plan to introduce an additional 100 electric vehicles over the coming months. This follows the utility’s 2024 rollout of 10 charging stations across five sites, designed to support the growing EV infrastructure in South Africa.
Acting Group Executive for Distribution, Agnes Mlambo, emphasised the broader context of the rollout. She noted that the move reflects Eskom’s commitment to reimagining the energy landscape and reducing carbon emissions, while demonstrating the practical benefits of electric transport in everyday operations.
Eskom’s e-mobility plans extend beyond this initial fleet. The Distribution Division, which has the largest number of vehicles in the company, aims for full electrification of its fleet by 2035. To support this transition, Eskom will expand its charging network and install 55 public EV stations over the next two years, enabling wider adoption of electric vehicles across communities.
Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane framed the initiative as part of a larger shift toward sustainable energy solutions that can deliver tangible economic and social benefits. The company is also integrating EV load forecasting into its grid planning, while developing smart charging systems and time-of-use tariffs to make electric vehicle ownership more practical and cost-effective.
Since 2021, Eskom has collaborated with government, automotive manufacturers, petroleum companies, and research institutions to create a coordinated e-mobility strategy for South Africa. The rollout of electric vehicles is expected to support job creation, innovation, and the development of cleaner, healthier communities, while offering new avenues for the company to expand services to its customers.
Eskom’s initial fleet launch signals a gradual but significant shift in South Africa’s transport sector, combining operational efficiency with environmental responsibility, and positioning the country to embrace a cleaner energy future.
