“Meaning full discussions around fleet electrification”

WesBank, in partnership with FNB, successfully hosted EVolution 2026, bringing together fleet operators, automotive manufacturers, finance leaders, technology providers and sustainability experts to explore the future of electric mobility in South Africa. The event served as a platform for meaningful discussions around fleet electrification, innovation, financing solutions and the practical realities of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs).

Hosted under the theme of accelerating sustainable mobility, EVolution 2026 featured insightful keynote presentations, expert panel discussions, live electric vehicle demonstrations and networking opportunities designed to equip businesses with the knowledge needed to embrace the country’s evolving mobility landscape.

Event Highlights

• Interactive test drives featuring the latest battery electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
• Expert discussions on financing electric fleets and reducing total cost of ownership.
• Demonstrations of telematics and data-driven fleet management solutions.
• Conversations around charging infrastructure, fleet readiness and sustainability.
• Industry collaboration between financial institutions, fleet operators and mobility experts.

WesBank: Driving the Transition

Representatives from WesBank reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting South African businesses on their electrification journey.

Key statement from WesBank

“Electric mobility is no longer a future concept—it is becoming a business imperative. Our role is to provide customers with the financing expertise, partnerships and industry knowledge needed to make the transition successfully.”

WesBank emphasised that fleet electrification requires more than purchasing vehicles. Businesses must also understand charging infrastructure, operational planning, total cost of ownership and long-term sustainability to maximise value from EV investments.

MasterDrive: Driver Behaviour Determines EV Success

MasterDrive CEO Eugene Herbert highlighted that successful fleet electrification depends heavily on driver behaviour and specialised EV driver training.

Key highlights from Eugene Herbert

• Drivers must adapt from traditional internal combustion engine driving habits to maximise EV efficiency.
• Regenerative braking and smoother acceleration significantly improve battery range.
• Proper EV driver training reduces operating costs, tyre wear and charging frequency.
• Safer driving behaviour also strengthens fleet risk management and insurance outcomes.

Herbert noted that organisations investing in electric fleets should place as much emphasis on driver development as they do on vehicle procurement.

“Electrifying a fleet is only half the journey. Ensuring drivers know how to maximise efficiency, safety and battery performance is what delivers long-term success.”

KPMG: Policy and Collaboration Will Shape South Africa’s EV Future

Industry experts from KPMG stressed that South Africa’s electric vehicle market has significant growth potential but requires stronger collaboration between government, financial institutions, manufacturers and private businesses.

Key KPMG highlights

• Demand-side incentives will be essential to accelerate EV adoption.
• Investment in charging infrastructure remains critical.
• Businesses should begin preparing now rather than waiting for market maturity.
• Fleet electrification offers long-term environmental and operational benefits despite current adoption challenges.

Looking Ahead

EVolution 2026 demonstrated that South Africa’s journey toward electric mobility is gaining momentum. Through partnerships between WesBank, FNB, MasterDrive, KPMG and leading automotive stakeholders, the event showcased how collaboration, education and innovative financial solutions will accelerate the country’s transition to cleaner and smarter mobility.

As businesses continue evaluating electric vehicle adoption, EVolution has established itself as one of South Africa’s leading platforms for knowledge sharing, innovation and industry collaboration—helping organisations confidently navigate the road toward a more sustainable transport future…for more please follow @wesbankSA