MB preparing for electric vans in SA

Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa hopes to be a pioneer in the field of electric mobility solutions for both private and commercial use.

Mercedes Benz Vans EQV e Sprinter and e Vito

Marinus Venter, Head of Product and Marketing for Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, says: “In 2022, we engaged in several insightful conversations regarding the feasibility of electric vans in South Africa.

“We are excited to share that we are on track to introduce our first electric van in South Africa by our target date. We believe that our electric vans will take locally emission-free transport to the next level in South Africa.”

Internationally, Mercedes-Benz Vans continues to accelerate its electric transformation, with the first nine months of the year seeing a one-third increase in sales of electric vans compared to the previous year, internationally.

Mercedes-Benz says it is ready to introduce electric vans in South Africa.

The Mercedes-Benz Group’s results indicate third-quarter unit sales reached 104 000 vehicles worldwide, a significant increase in comparison to quarter three of 2021, which saw unit sales reach 88 000 vehicles.

This is in line with the Mercedes-Benz Vans objective to set the standard in sustainable and all-electric transport. In third quarter 2022, Mercedes-Benz Vans and Rivian moved to partner on electric van production by signing a memorandum of understanding to initiate a strategic partnership.

Among other things, the two companies aim to build an all-new electric-only production facility, leveraging an existing Mercedes-Benz site in Central or Eastern Europe. Large electric vans for both Mercedes-Benz Vans and Rivian are expected to roll off the assembly line in just a few years.

More Industry News stories

Dunlop completes R1.7 billion investment at uMnambithi

Dunlop completes R1.7 billion investment at uMnambithi

Dunlop Tyres South Africa has completed a R1.7 billion investment programme at its uMnambithi (Ladysmith) manufacturing facility, introducing new manufacturing technology and expanding production capabilities at the plant.

  • 17 August 2026
GM renews China venture with SAIC for 20 years after restructuring

GM renews China venture with SAIC for 20 years after restructuring

General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling ‌the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.

  • 17 August 2026