Confirmation by Audi and Daimler-Benz that they will bring electric vehicles to SA for the first time in the next two years has set the scene for the country to join the global electric vehicle (EV) revolution. Until now, only Nissan and BMW have brought fuel-less cars into the country, and installed sparse charging infrastructure. At the same time, the vehicle industry in SA finally appears to be making progress in lobbying the government to support EV initiatives, including lowering duties on imports and providing incentives for local battery manufacture. An automotive production and development programme (ADPD) was recently agreed on between the department of trade and industry and key local automotive stakeholders. It will be in effect from 2020 to 2035. Hailey Philander, BMW Group product communication specialist, told Business Times: "Sustainable mobility thrives wherever there is an effective combination of three factors: customer demand, legislation and innovative partnershi...

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