AECOM smart infrastructure solutions power e-mobility transition

As South Africa accelerates its transition towards greener transport, the focus on decarbonising the sector has never been more pressing – and innovative solutions are essential. Globally trusted infrastructure consulting firm AECOM is playing a pivotal role in delivering these solutions, driving the future of e-mobility and sustainable transport.

With October recognised as Transport Month, the focus is on South Africa’s Green Transport Strategy for 2018 to 2050, which identifies transport as the fastest growing source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The aim is to significantly reduce these and other environmental impacts from the transport sector. In this regard, AECOM is a world leader in delivering comprehensive solutions to electrify the future of transportation. 

AECOM is actively involved in creating smart energy solutions that improve the efficiency of electric vehicle (EV) charging. “We also play a key role in larger decarbonisation efforts, assisting cities and organisations to transition to zero-emission transportation,” comments Robert Kotze, transportation planning and traffic engineering lead at the company. 

Focus on zero-emission technologies 

Kotze says that Transport Month was an ideal opportunity to focus on the zero-emission transportation future. Cities continue to prioritise climate goals, with many focused on reducing transportation-related carbon emissions as a critical first step.

Zero-emission technologies such as battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen will reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions and are essential parts of infrastructure modernisation.  

Challenges and opportunities in e-mobility 

The Electric Vehicle White Paper released in November 2023 addresses e-mobility in South Africa from both a manufacturing and a local market perspective. The shift to e-mobility poses substantial challenges and opportunities for South Africa’s automotive component supply chain; the push for EVs, driven by international sustainability goals, requires South Africa to adapt its manufacturing processes and component supply chains to remain competitive. 

Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) 

Launched at COP26 in 2021, the JETP is a significant part of the country’s strategy to transition from coal to greener energy sources. The partnership involves substantial concessional climate finance from international partners to help South Africa replace its ageing coal-fired power stations with renewable energy alternatives. 

South Africa’s EV policy 

The national EV policy is outlined in the Electric Vehicle Roadmap, part of the broader South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) 2035. The roadmap aims to transition the automotive market and production capacity towards EVs, while addressing critical energy shortages and the need to decarbonise the economy.

“The EV policy, in conjunction with the JETP, is part of a coordinated effort to decarbonise the economy while promoting sustainable growth and development. These initiatives reflect South Africa’s commitment to a sustainable and inclusive energy transition, balancing environmental goals with economic and social considerations,” elaborates Kotze. 

“The transition to EVs presents several challenges, including the need for robust charging infrastructure and the high costs of importing EVs,” he continues. With this in mind, while there is significant potential for e-mobility – particularly in sectors like minibus taxis – current infrastructure and socioeconomic factors need to be considered. 

Local innovations and niche markets 

Kotze also sees other opportunities in the e-mobility sector. For example, local innovations such as electric motorcycles and battery-swapping technologies address unique challenges like unreliable electricity supply and a lack of fast charging. In addition, the development of niche markets such as last-mile delivery solutions showcase the sector’s potential for growth despite broader challenges.

“This has led to successful e-mobility startups in South Africa, especially in last-mile delivery with micro-mobility solutions. The operational cost benefits and local manufacturing certainly make it viable in developed markets,” notes Kotze. 

Public and private sector collaboration 

As South Africa navigates the complexities of e-mobility, Kotze underscores the need for a balanced approach involving both the public and private sector. Successful integration of EVs into existing transportation systems calls for careful planning, policy support, and investment in infrastructure and skills development.

“There needs to be an overarching structure, with both the public and private sector driving progress. For example, there is potential to develop EV components locally. Government programmes could incentivise this by mandating EVs in fleets, creating critical mass and supporting local companies,” he says. 

With its extensive global experience and capabilities, AECOM is well-positioned to contribute to South Africa’s e-mobility journey. By leveraging international trends and local insights, it aims to support the development of sustainable transport solutions that align with the country’s energy transition goals.