By Tshepo Chauke
Fleet management software developer GoMetro has launched South Africa’s first electric minibus taxi in collaboration with other companies and Stellenbosch University.
The eKamva minibus is undergoing certification to comply with local safety and vehicle standards.
GoMetro hopes the project’s harnessing of green energy can improve the environment while delivering savings to taxi commuters.
The eKamva is a 15-seater minibus with a range exceeding 200km per charge.
Charging options include fast charging (75 minutes using a 60kW DC charger) and slow charging (10 hours overnight).
GoMetro is launching the eKamva with a new business model and the Flex EV charging infrastructure system.
GoMetro estimates this green transport system could save South Africans about 40-70% in transport costs and that independence from fossil fuels will contribute to these savings.
The software company says electric vehicles experience fewer breakdowns than petrol or diesel-powered cars, are cheaper to maintain and bring environmental health benefits
“There are no oil filters and air filters, spark plugs or oil to change,” says GoMetro CEO Justin Coetzee, “so it is much easier to maintain.”
The eKamva has been tested on taxi routes around Stellenbosch since 2023.
The project is a collaboration between GoMetro, Powerfleet, HSW, ACDC Dynamics, Stellenbosch University, and others. Additionally, Flex EV is developing a network of charging hubs nationwide, starting with Century City and Stellenbosch.
Electrification of transport offers environmental and community health benefits.
Reducing harmful pollutants like nitrous oxides, sulphur oxides, and PM2.5 particles will improve air quality and reduce respiratory health risks.
Despite the advantages, transitioning to electric vehicles in the informal taxi sector presents challenges, especially considering South Africa’s coal-reliant energy supply.
This is an edited version of a story first published in Stuff Magazine.
Pictured above: eKamva GoMetro rides.
Source: e-hailing e-taxi
