South Africa's Incentive for Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles Sparks Chinese Investments
Key Ideas
  • South Africa introduces a 150% tax deduction for electric and hydrogen vehicle manufacturers, attracting investments from Chinese companies.
  • The tax break will be effective from early 2026, encouraging the production of EVs and hydrogen vehicles in the country.
  • The incentive will last for a decade and aims to boost local manufacturing capacity and attract investments to the automotive sector.
  • Despite challenges like high import duties, EV sales have been increasing, indicating a positive trend towards sustainable vehicle adoption.
South Africa has implemented a new tax amendment offering a 150% deduction for manufacturers of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. The law signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa aims to boost the EV sector, with the incentive set to come into effect in early 2026. The legislation allows deductions for buildings and new equipment used in producing electric or hydrogen vehicles, with a duration set until 2036. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana allocated R964 million to support the transition to electric vehicles. The incentive is expected to attract investments, with Chinese automakers already showing interest. The Automotive Business Council sees this as a significant step towards fostering growth in the sector. Despite challenges like a 25% import duty on EVs, sales have been increasing, indicating a positive shift towards sustainable vehicle adoption.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.