Electric vehicles from Stellantis, developed in partnership with the Chinese automaker Leapmotor, will be introduced in South Africa this September, Reuters reported.
The rollout will begin with a mid-size SUV equipped with a petrol-powered generator used to charge the battery, offering an alternative solution where EV charging infrastructure is limited.
This type of hybrid system does not use the engine to power the wheels directly but instead uses it solely to recharge the battery. This configuration is expected to help address infrastructure constraints in markets such as South Africa, where charging networks are still being developed.
Stellantis, the world’s fourth-largest carmaker, acquired a 21% stake in Leapmotor in 2023 and created a joint venture to distribute the brand’s models in global markets. South Africa will be one of the first test cases for this strategy in emerging economies.
The company has operated in the South African market since 2021 and is currently building a production facility with an expected capacity of up to 100,000 vehicles by 2030. Stellantis has set a goal of selling 1 million vehicles annually in the Middle East and Africa by 2030, with electric models projected to make up 35% of that volume.
Affordability remains a key factor in the region, where more than 60% of passenger vehicles are sold below 400,000 rand (around $23,000). Future Leapmotor models – including fully electric vehicles – are scheduled for release in 2025, with features such as driver-assist systems and lidar-based sensors offered at lower price points.
Stellantis is one of several automakers introducing EVs to the African market. Chinese manufacturers such as BYD and Chery have also increased their presence, aiming to meet demand for lower-cost vehicles with modern features.
The long-term success of such initiatives will likely depend on parallel development of infrastructure, local support services, and regulatory frameworks that enable broader EV adoption in the region.