Insights blog

Takealot, South Africa's largest on-demand delivery service, is advancing its sustainable supply chain goals by expanding its electric vehicle (EV) truck fleet in Cape Town and Johannesburg by the end of 2024. This expansion aims to reduce carbon emissions by using EV trucks for central logistical operations. 

In partnership with AEVERSA, AVIS, and JAC Motors, Takealot conducted a proof of concept in late 2022 with a single EV truck. By the last quarter of 2023, the company had deployed four JAC N75 EV trucks in Cape Town and seven in Johannesburg.

Takealot is the largest EV truck operator in the country, with plans to increase to 16 trucks by the end of 2024.

The EV trucks, which charge overnight during low-cost hours and top up during loading for transport, currently rely on the local grid for charging. Despite this, they emit less greenhouse gases than diesel vehicles. Plans include using solar power for charging hubs, with a feasibility study underway to supply 60-80% of the fleet's energy needs via green energy, potentially saving over 14 tons of CO2 per vehicle annually. This could cut comparative diesel emissions by 67%.

Cost-wise, the EV trucks have shown a 19% total cost of ownership benefit over traditional vehicles in Johannesburg. The transition required specialised training for 30 drivers on new processes and managing range anxiety when driving low-battery trucks. Management took on processes to ensure against failed charges.

Takealot aims to expand its EV truck usage to other cities like Durban and eventually tackle long-haul trucking, requiring more extensive charging infrastructure.

Takealot's pioneering efforts in commercial EV adoption are positioning it ahead of competitors in South Africa, driven by rising diesel prices and the need for sustainable transport solutions. The successful pilot program highlights the potential for a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable delivery system.

Read more about Takealot here.