South Africa's shift to electric vehicles is beginning with trucks rather than passenger cars, according to TechCentral. In an interview, Hiten Parmar explains the factors behind this pattern, arguing that commercial and heavy vehicles are leading the country's electric transition ahead of family cars. The piece explores why South Africa's EV adoption differs from markets where consumer electric cars have dominated, highlighting the role of the trucking sector in driving early electrification.

As fuel prices rise, transport operators in Uganda are focusing on technological upgrades for efficiency. New-generation commercial trucks are being introduced, which promise reduced fuel consumption and longer service intervals. Additionally, these advancements include a pathway towards electric freight transport, as manufacturers prepare to launch electric trucks in the market.

South African customers can now place orders for the Range Rover Electric, with local pricing starting at R3.9 million, according to htxt.africa. The electric version of the luxury SUV marks Range Rover's entry into the battery-powered market in the country. Deliveries to South African buyers are expected to begin in 2027, giving early customers a considerable wait between ordering and receiving their vehicles. The announcement signals growing availability of premium electric vehicles in the South African market.

Growing numbers of motorists in Tanzania are switching to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as petrol and diesel prices continue to rise, according to the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC). The shift, reported from Geita, is being driven by lower CNG pump prices and better mileage. Commercial tricycle (bajaji) operators, private car owners and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) fleets are among those adopting the alternative fuel as conventional fuel costs climb.

South Africa is transitioning from coal-fired electricity, which currently accounts for 74% of its power, to renewable sources like wind and solar. This shift is complicated and is being hindered by the need for a different electricity system and new grid management strategies. Additionally, significant changes are required at Eskom, the state-owned utility that has historically dominated the power sector.

A recent drop in fuel prices has provided some relief to South African households; however, they continue to face significant challenges due to rising unemployment, high food costs, and increasing municipal bills. This situation leaves many families in a precarious financial position, struggling to manage their expenses amidst these pressures.