Bolt, the European mobility platform in Africa, is partnering with BYD, the electric-vehicle manufacturer and the South African Meter Taxi and E-Hailing Association (SAMTEA), an affiliate of the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO), among others to expand its Electric Vehicle (EV) category to Johannesburg, South Africa.

The Johannesburg launch builds on Bolt’s EV category debut in Cape Town earlier this year as the firm pushes to scale electric mobility in South Africa. Bolt is targeting a fleet of 500 electric vehicles in the country by December 2026, for a cleaner, more efficient urban transport.

“Electric mobility presents an important opportunity for South Africa,” said Graham Walker, General Manager of Bolt South Africa, in a statement. “It can help reduce operating and maintenance costs for driver-partners and fleet operators, while contributing to cleaner urban transport. Our focus is on making that opportunity practical and scalable through strong partnerships.”

BOLT, SANTACO,SAMTEA

The Johannesburg expansion also strengthens Bolt’s growing global and African EV footprint. Bolt operates electric ride categories in more than 70 cities worldwide and has introduced electric-mobility initiatives in Kenya and Nigeria, alongside its South African rollout.

South Africa remains one of Bolt’s most important markets globally and the expansion follows the company’s 10-year milestone in the country. Bolt says it has contributed R3 billion to South Africa’s economy and expects to bring more sustainable mobility in cities like Johannesburg.

Bolt and its partners aim to help build the ecosystem needed for scalable EV adoption, support driver-partners, fleet operators and passengers while advancing a transport sector in which different mobility services can coexist and contribute to South Africa’s economic and environmental priorities.

“Collaboration is essential if we are to create a transport ecosystem that protects drivers and passengers, supports business, and creates opportunity.” said Sibongiseni Shange, Chairperson of SAMTEA.