KwaZulu-Natal is positioning itself to attract investment and create jobs in the emerging new-energy vehicle sector, as South Africa’s automotive industry transitions towards cleaner transport technologies.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli welcomed a convoy of new-energy vehicles (NEVs) at the Moses Mabhida Stadium precinct in Durban on Sunday, ahead of South African Auto Week and the KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference.
The events are taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban from 13 to 16 October 2026.
The convoy, which travelled to Durban from various provinces, forms part of the Escaping the Noise 3.0 NEV Road Trip initiative, which also brought together participants from Gqeberha, KuGompo and Cape Town.
Ntuli said the shift towards cleaner and more energy-efficient vehicles is becoming increasingly important as households and businesses continue to face pressure from high fuel and transport costs.
“Electric vehicles offer an alternative mobility option, while contributing towards efforts to reduce harmful tailpipe emissions and promoting a cleaner environment,” Ntuli said.
The Premier highlighted the potential economic opportunities associated with the emerging new-energy vehicle sector, including investment, industrial development, skills creation and employment opportunities.
He said the province remains committed to positioning itself to benefit from changes in the automotive industry and the broader transition towards cleaner transport technologies.
“The automotive sector remains an important contributor to economic activity, manufacturing and employment, and the growth of new-energy technologies presents further opportunities for innovation and investment,” Ntuli said.
The arrival of the convoy ahead of South African Auto Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the future of mobility and the need for South Africa to prepare for technological changes affecting vehicle manufacturing, transport, and energy consumption.
Ntuli emphasised that the transition towards new-energy vehicles must also support economic development and ensure that opportunities created by emerging industries benefit South Africans.
Building a climate-resilient economy
Meanwhile, the eThekwini Municipality said the NEV initiative aligned with its vision of building a climate-resilient, low-carbon economy, while strengthening local industries.
The Deputy Head of the municipality’s Economic Development Directorate, Takalani Rathiyaya, said developing local suppliers and manufacturers within the automotive value chain will contribute significantly to expanding the city's manufacturing sector.
“Highlighting these new energy initiatives creates an important platform to review and elevate our automotive performance, reinforcing our commitment to building a stable, competitive and sustainable future," Rathiyaya said.
He added that South African Auto Week and the Investment Conference will shine a global spotlight on eThekwini’s robust automotive manufacturing capabilities and attract investment.
“The municipality boasts a world-class automotive hub, and we are fully geared to attract high-value investments, localise sustainable supply chains, and generate vital green jobs for our communities.
“The eThekwini Municipality is open for business and ready to drive the next chapter of automotive innovation. We invite delegates, investors and automotive pioneers to explore the massive potential our region offers during this historic week,” Rathiyaya said.
The events bring together government, industry stakeholders and investors to explore opportunities in the automotive sector, including the development of sustainable supply chains and new-energy mobility technologies. – SAnews.gov.za
