Enviro Automotive is driving change in South Africa’s automotive industry with the introduction of the Riddara 4x4 Double Cab electric pickup, manufactured by China’s Geely Auto Group. The move aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable transport, supported by price reductions across Enviro’s electric vehicle (EV) range and a new partnership with Turner Morris, a firm specialising in construction equipment rentals and renewable energy solutions.

Gideon Wolvaardt, CEO of Enviro Automotive, emphasised the company’s focus on advancing cleaner mobility. “Our goal is to lead South Africa’s shift towards sustainable transport through practical electric solutions. The Riddara 4x4, alongside our partnership with Turner Morris and adjusted pricing, marks progress in making EVs more accessible,” he says.

Roddara electric 4x4 bakkie

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Francois Malan, Head of Sales at Enviro Automotive, highlighted the Riddara’s potential to challenge perceptions of EV capabilities. “This vehicle shows electric models can handle demanding tasks. Collaborating with Turner Morris will help us expand reach across Southern Africa, while lower prices make ownership feasible for more customers,” he noted.

The Riddara 4x4, set to debut after the NAMPO Harvest Day Expo (13–16 May), will initially be showcased alongside Enviro’s SRM T3 EV bakkie at the event. The SRM T3, designed for commercial use, features a 1,6-tonne payload and 6 kWh vehicle-to-load functionality, aimed at agricultural and industrial sectors.

Developed on a Volvo-derived platform, the Riddara RD6 is South Africa’s first fully electric 4x4 pickup, offering a 0–100 km/h acceleration of 4,5 seconds. Buyers will receive a 5-year/150 000 km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/200 000 km battery warranty. The first shipment is expected to arrive in Durban ahead of its market launch.

Enviro Automotive has also reduced prices across its EV lineup, citing lower battery costs and favourable trade conditions. The DFSK EC35 electric van, now available with savings up to R105 000, is positioned as a cost-effective alternative to traditional fuel-powered vans. The company estimates that fuel expenses for petrol or diesel equivalents over 200 000 km would surpass the EC35’s purchase price.

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A partnership with Turner Morris will expand Enviro’s distribution, integrating 13 of Turner Morris’s outlets with DFSK’s existing network to create over 30 service points nationwide. This collaboration aims to improve accessibility to EVs for consumers and businesses across the region.

The Riddara’s arrival and Enviro’s pricing strategy reflect a growing emphasis on electric mobility in South Africa, with industry observers noting the potential long-term benefits of lithium batteries, which typically last 15 to 20 years.

Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association withproudly ALL THINGS MOTORING