Enabling the transition For electric trucks to gain wider traction, several enabling factors need to be addressed – particularly in the regulatory space. “One area that requires attention is road traffic legislation,” Potter explains. “Adjustments are needed to enable operators to run electric trucks in their fleets without significant limitations on payload capacity, including both weight and dimensions.” These limitations stem from the physical characteristics of batteries, which can impact vehicle weight and, consequently, payload capacity. Addressing these constraints will be essential to making electric trucks commercially viable for more operators. Looking ahead, Potter sees a multi- technology future for South Africa’s transport sector. “All the possible technologies have potential in South Africa,” he says. “In the shorter term, we will see ICE still dominant in longer-haul operations. We could also expect to see a rise in biofuels and natural/biogas-powered trucks.” Battery electric vehicles (BEVs), meanwhile, are expected to play a growing role in shorter-haul and regional applications. “An increase will be seen in BEVs for short-haul and regional work. The BEV share will start to grow faster once legislation is adapted to accommodate the physical weight and dimension limitations imposed by the physics of batteries,” he adds. A steady path forward While the pace of change may vary, Volvo Trucks remains committed to driving progress across all fronts. “Volvo Trucks is fully committed to our sustainability ambitions, while recognising that leading in this space comes with its own challenges,” Potter concludes. “Every market progresses at its own pace, with sustainability maturity influenced by local conditions. However, this does not lessen our determination.” In a market defined by complexity and constraint, the path forward is unlikely to be linear. Yet, through a combination of innovation, localisation, and partnership, the industry is steadily building a more resilient and sustainable future. For South African fleet operators, the message is clear: success will depend not only on the trucks they choose, but on the partners they choose to work with. b
The reality of electrification While the global shift towards electric vehicles is well underway, the transition to electric heavy trucks in South Africa presents a unique set of challenges. “I’ve seen first-hand how challenging it can be for some operators to visualise this transition,” Potter admits. A key barrier is the need for a fundamental shift in how fleets approach their operations. Unlike conventional trucks, electric vehicles require careful planning around routes, charging infrastructure, and energy management. “The first step is to be realistic about your operational setup and long-term sustainability vision, supported by the right EV partner,” he says. This is where the concept of partnership becomes particularly critical. “This is not a ‘sell a truck and watch it leave the yard’ scenario – successful EV adoption requires a genuine, ongoing partnership that is tailored to each unique operation,” Potter emphasises. Despite the challenges, there are encouraging signs of progress. “Adoption is happening with real-world operational successes in South Africa, proving that the transition is not only realistic but entirely achievable,” he notes.
assembly of Euro 6 and FH Aero trucks. “Earlier this month, Volvo Trucks announced the local assembly of Euro 6 and FH Aero trucks, reinforcing Volvo Trucks’ leadership in sustainable transport solutions while continuing to support the development of the local manufacturing sector,” says Potter. The introduction of the FH Aero range marks a notable milestone for the South African market. “This revolutionary product was launched globally in 2024 and is seen by the company as the ideal long-haul truck,” he explains. “Its aerodynamic extended cab is designed to save fleet owners energy and reduce their carbon footprint.” Customers have the flexibility to choose between electric and diesel models, with technologies such as I-Save further enhancing fuel efficiency. At the same time, the local assembly of Euro 6 trucks brings advanced emissions technology closer to home. “This technology offers fleet operators the synergy of sustainability, efficiency, and performance that underscores Volvo Trucks’ commitment to offering cleaner, more sustainable transport solutions,” Potter adds.
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