Takealot quietly becoming an electric giant

Takealot quietly becoming an electric giant is no longer speculation but reality. South Africa’s largest e-commerce company, Takealot, has introduced nearly 300 electric vehicles (EVs) into its delivery operations. This bold move positions the retailer as a pioneer in the country’s sustainable delivery ecosystem and a leader in South African retail innovation.

Takealot’s Electric Revolution in South African Retail

A Strategic Shift Toward Sustainability

Takealot has made it clear that electric vehicles are not just a short-term experiment but part of its long-term strategy. Through Takealot Fulfilment Solutions, the group is integrating EVs into its logistics chain, aiming to build a greener supply chain.

According to the company, initiatives such as sustainable packaging and the introduction of EVs in last-mile delivery reflect a broader recognition of its corporate responsibility. By doing so, Takealot quietly becoming an electric giant is setting new benchmarks in South African retail.

Current EV Fleet Breakdown

The retailer already operates a diverse EV fleet, including:

• 232 e-bicycles and e-bikes – used mainly for Mr D and TakealotNow services.

• 41 locally produced Mellowvans – electric tricycles designed for last-mile deliveries, offering storage and driver protection.

• 16 JAC N75 electric trucks – covering middle-mile deliveries with a range of 140–150km using Aeversa’s load management technology.

• Plans for 14 more electric trucks within six months.

This growing EV fleet underscores how Takealot is quietly but steadily becoming an electric giant in South Africa.

Benefits of Going Electric

Lower Emissions and Costs

Takealot says its electric shift has significantly reduced carbon emissions, aligning with global sustainability trends. But beyond the environmental angle, EVs are helping lower operational costs. Fuel is one of the biggest expenses for delivery fleets, and with South Africa’s volatile fuel prices, EVs provide cost stability.

Competitive Advantage

By adopting EVs early, Takealot is gaining a first-mover advantage in sustainable delivery. Consumers are increasingly aware of climate impact, and many prefer retailers who demonstrate a commitment to reducing emissions.

Thus, Takealot quietly becoming an electric giant not only strengthens its reputation but also gives it an edge over rivals in South African retail.

Challenges Facing Takealot’s EV Rollout

High Capital Investment

The transition is not without hurdles. Building charging and solar infrastructure requires heavy upfront investment. This cost barrier has prevented some competitors from committing fully to EVs.

Limited Charging Infrastructure

South Africa’s long-distance routes lack charging stations, creating logistical challenges for middle-mile and long-haul deliveries. For now, Takealot’s EV use is strongest in urban areas, where routes are shorter and charging is easier to manage.

Operational Complexity

Electric fleets demand new management systems, training, and maintenance practices. Takealot acknowledges that this adds layers of complexity compared to traditional fleets.

Industry Response: Who Else is Going Electric?

Takealot is not alone in exploring EV delivery. Several other South African retail and logistics players are also testing the waters:

• Woolies Online and Spar2U have added EVs to their fleets.

• DHL South Africa is running electric delivery vans and trucks.

• Shoprite’s Sixty60 piloted EVs but concluded they were not yet viable for its large-scale operations, although it uses one heavy-duty Scania EV truck in Cape Town.

This indicates that while Takealot quietly becoming an electric giant, others are watching closely and experimenting on a smaller scale.

The Future of Electric Trucks in South Africa

Heavy-Duty EVs: The Next Frontier

South Africa faces unique challenges with heavy-duty EV trucks. Without highway charging stations, long-distance routes remain dominated by diesel.

However, logistics companies like DHL Supply Chain, KDG Logistics, and Vector Logistics are introducing Volvo EV trucks. Industry leaders argue for import duty relief to make adoption more affordable.

Battery-Swapping Technology

A promising solution is battery-swapping stations. Chinese manufacturer Sany has already sold 100 heavy-duty EV trucks with this system in Southern Africa. Partnering with Zero Carbon Charge, they are pushing a “battery-as-a-service” model to support long-distance logistics.

Financial and Regulatory Pressures

The Climate Change Act, signed in March 2025, is reshaping how businesses approach fuel consumption. Diesel trucks will face fines for exceeding emission caps, while exporters risk carbon border taxes.

This makes the switch to electric not just an environmental choice but an economic necessity. Running a diesel truck costs around R6 per kilometre, while EV trucks using solar can operate at under R2 per kilometre.

For Takealot, quietly becoming an electric giant means staying ahead of regulations while keeping costs under control.

Global Trends Driving Local Adoption

In China and Norway, EV trucks are already mainstream. Norway has around 12% of trucks running on electric, while China sold 80,000 heavy-duty EV trucks in 2024 alone.

South Africa is still behind, but Takealot’s leadership shows how local retail giants can accelerate change. By aligning with global trends, Takealot is positioning itself not just as a South African leader but as a continental pioneer.

Conclusion: Takealot Quietly Becoming an Electric Giant

Takealot quietly becoming an electric giant is a defining moment in South African retail. With nearly 300 EVs already operational and more on the way, the company is proving that sustainable delivery is both possible and profitable.

Challenges remain — from infrastructure gaps to high capital costs — but the long-term benefits of reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and regulatory compliance are undeniable.

As South African consumers grow more eco-conscious and regulators tighten emissions laws, Takealot’s bold EV adoption may well shape the future of sustainable delivery in Africa.