If you’re in the market for an electric car but don’t necessarily want to break the bank, what are the 5 cheapest electric cars for sale in South Africa? Let’s take a closer look!
Electric Vehicles (EVs), for the most part, are still prohibitively expensive in South Africa but if you’re shopping for the cheapest electric cars currently available in South Africa then this list is for you!
Compared to other markets, Electric Vehicle (EV) uptake in South Africa is on the increase but still comparatively slow.
In 2023, 931 fully electric cars were sold in South Africa and combined with the sales of Hybrids and Plug-In Hybrids, totalling 7 693 units, the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sector represented only 1.45% of South Africa’s total new car sales volume in 2023.
Nonetheless, with more EV products due to reach South Africa in 2024 and beyond, buyers will have more choice and with brands such as Ora and BYD now on local soil, cheaper electric cars will hopefully become a more common sight on South African roads.
Here are the cheapest electric cars currently available in South Africa.
Pricing is accurate as of March 2024.
5 Cheapest Electric Cars in South Africa
1. GWM ORA 03 – From R686 950
The GWM ORA 03 came to market in 2023 and with a list price below R700k, it’s currently the cheapest electric car you can buy in South Africa!
Two derivatives are available, the ORA 03 300 (300 km claimed range) and the ORA 03 400 (400 km claimed range). Both offer 128 kW and 250 Nm of torque but the 03 300 uses a 48 kWh battery while the 03 400 uses a larger 63 kWh battery.
It’s worth mentioning that the ORA 300 Super Luxury was a finalist in the Electric Vehicle category of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards sponsored by Absa.
Also see: GWM Ora 03 vs Volvo EX30: What Should You Buy?
See specification and pricing details for the GWM ORA 03
Buy a used GWM ORA 03 on Cars.co.za
2. BYD Atto 3 – From R768 000
The BYD Atto 3 electric crossover arrived in South Africa in early 2023 and it’s currently the socond cheapest electric car on sale in South Africa. Featuring a sleek design and an electric motor that produces 150 kW and 310 Nm of torque, the Atto 3 is capable of 320 km on a single charge thanks to its standard 50.1 kWh battery. If you opt for the Atto 3 Extended (R835 000), range is boosted to 420 km using a larger 60.4 kWh battery.
Cars.co.za has yet to test the BYD Atto 3.
See specification and pricing details for the BYD Atto 3
Buy a used BYD Atto 3 on Cars.co.za
3. Volvo EX30 – From R775 900
Volvo is currently leading the EV sales erm, charge, in South Africa with a 16.6% market share and the firm’s new EX30 compact SUV is set to solidify Volvo’s success on local soil.
The EX30 is offered with either a single or dual electric motor setup, the former producing 200 kW and 343 Nm while the latter produces a heady 315 kW and 543 Nm. The EX30 Single Motor uses a 51 kWh battery that offers a range of 343 km while the 69 kWh Extended Range battery offers 480 km on a single charge.
Also see: GWM Ora 03 vs Volvo EX30: What Should You Buy?
See specification and pricing details for the Volvo EX30
Buy a used Volvo EX30 on Cars.co.za
4. Mini SE – From R783 500
The Mini SE has been on sale since 2020 and it features a single electric motor that produces 135 kW and 270 Nn of torque and comes equipped with a 32 kWh battery pack that allows for a driving range of 215 km, which is significantly less than what’s offered by the other electric cars on this list.
With the new 2025 Mini revealed last year customers can expect to see the new and improved Mini in South Africa next year.
See specification and pricing details for the Mini SE
Buy a used Mini SE on Cars.co.za
5. Maxus T90EV Double Cab Bakkie – From R1 100 000
SAIC Maxus, or Maxus Electric Vehicles as it’s called in South Africa, recently launched a range of commercial EVs, including Mzansi’s first EV double cab bakkie, the Maxus T90EV double cab.
The T90EV is offered in 4×2 guise only and uses a single electric motor that delivers 150 kW and 310 Nm. With an 88.5 kWh Ternary Polymer Lithium battery, the T90EV claims an electric range of 330 km.
Cars.co.za has yet to test the Maxus T90EV.
