MellowVans' journey from Stellenbosch to Europe

South Africa’s MellowVans is reshaping urban logistics with its innovative electric vehicles (EVs), now gaining traction in international markets. Designed for efficiency and affordability, the three-wheeler EVs offer a greener and cost-effective solution for last-mile deliveries, catering to companies like Takealot, DHL, and Woolies Dash.

The vehicles, produced in Stellenbosch using 70% locally-sourced components, feature a unique design allowing 2,500 litres of cargo space and a load capacity of 150kg. Compared to conventional motorbikes, this makes MellowVans more efficient for deliveries, reducing costs and emissions. A single delivery costs just R16.94, nearly half the R32.36 needed for two internal combustion engine (ICE) bikes.

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Beyond South Africa, MellowVans is making waves in Namibia, Botswana, and Europe. In September 2024, the automaker shipped its first batch to the EU and UK, following successful trials in Belgium and the Netherlands. MellowVans is the first South African manufacturer to achieve homologation in these regions, marking a historic milestone. The brand’s success was further cemented when it won Best Vehicle for Goods Logistics at the Paris Auto Show 2024.

A Journey of Innovation

Founded in 2012 by Neil du Preez as MellowCabs, the company initially aimed to offer electric public transport. A pivotal moment came when DHL expressed interest in using the cabs as delivery vehicles, steering the company towards light commercial logistics. Despite early production constraints and challenges meeting South Africa’s Automotive Production Development Programme incentives, MellowVans secured funding from family, friends, and later the Industrial Development Corporation.

Scaling Up for the Future

MellowVans has steadily ramped up production, from one vehicle per day at its inception to 10 per day by August 2024. The company is now eyeing global expansion with plans for production facilities in the Netherlands, Hungary, or Egypt. The firm’s vision is to redefine urban deliveries with efficient, eco-friendly solutions.