South Africa’s electric mobility industry has taken an important step forward with the launch of the South African Electric Mobility Association (SAEMA), a new organisation created to unite the businesses, consumers and industry participants driving the transition to electric transport.
A major announcement at the launch event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SAEMA and the Norwegian Electric Vehicle Association, widely recognised as one of the world’s leading advocates for electric vehicle adoption. The partnership establishes a formal relationship between South Africa’s emerging EV sector and Norway, a country regarded as a global benchmark for electric mobility.
The agreement was signed by Markus Rotevatn, Head of International Projects and Partnerships at the Norwegian EV Association, and Hiten Parmar, Co-founder of SAEMA. Through the partnership, the organisations aim to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, industry expertise and practical experience to support the growth of South Africa’s electric mobility market.
With the establishment of SAEMA, South Africa joins a growing number of countries that have created dedicated electric mobility associations to represent both industry and consumer interests. According to the organisation, its objective is to serve as a central platform that connects stakeholders throughout the electric mobility value chain.
During the launch event, Rotevatn shared insights into Norway’s successful electric vehicle journey, outlining the factors that have contributed to the country’s world-leading levels of EV adoption. Norway remains one of the most advanced EV markets globally, with battery-electric vehicles accounting for the majority of new vehicle sales.
SAEMA says it intends to represent a broad cross-section of the electric mobility ecosystem, including consumers, vehicle dealerships, charging network operators, infrastructure providers, investors and businesses supporting the shift towards electric transport.
The association also plans to engage with policymakers, regulators and industry leaders to help create a supportive environment for sector growth. Key priorities are expected to include the development of policy frameworks, regulatory improvements, industry standards and initiatives designed to accelerate electric vehicle adoption in South Africa.
According to Parmar, the partnership with the Norwegian EV Association offers South Africa an opportunity to learn from one of the world's most established electric vehicle markets while developing solutions tailored to local requirements.
He believes the collaboration will play an important role in strengthening the country’s electric mobility ecosystem and supporting sustainable industry growth as interest in electric vehicles continues to expand among consumers and businesses alike.
