Central to South Africa’s low-carbon and climate-resilient transition is the transport sector, with a focus on reducing transport needs, shifting to lower-emissions modes, and improving technologies. Public transport improvements and the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) are key to this shift.

Global markets for vehicles are rapidly moving towards EVs, with some banning future sales of internal combustion vehicles. In response, South Africa is developing local EV manufacturing capacity, primarily focused on private vehicles.

This publication draws on a 2023 study to profile the emerging market for electric buses in South Africa, highlighting policy enablers, investment opportunities, local manufacturing potential, and climate and socio-economic benefits. The study was validated through a workshop with city representatives, industry bodies, businesses, development finance institutions, and government departments, hosted by the Alliance for Climate Action South Africa – which is convened by C40 Cities, NBI and WWF South Africa.

Report by the World Wildlife Fund