16/10/2026
PILATUS Zambia plans to invest in electric vehicle (EV) charging and battery-swapping stations on key transport corridors to support Government’s drive to accelerate electric mobility.
The company, the official dealer of BYD vehicles in Zambia, says the investment will help address challenges associated with charging time and driving range, particularly in the heavy-duty trucking sector.
Recently, President Hakainde Hichilema announced that all state institutions will acquire only electric vehicles in response to instability in global fuel supplies caused by geopolitical tensions.
The President also said Government will work with the private sector to invest in charging infrastructure countrywide.
Pilatus Zambia managing director Tue Andersen said the company is committed to supporting the transition by expanding infrastructure and introducing electric commercial vehicles to the local market.
Mr Andersen said Pilatus Zambia has introduced SANY electric trucks, with both electric and diesel-powered models expected to be available next month.
He said Zambia has significant potential to become a regional leader in electric mobility, particularly in heavy-duty trucking.
Mr Andersen said investment in battery-swapping stations will help overcome some of the major barriers to electric truck adoption by reducing charging downtime and addressing range concerns.
“Investing in the right infrastructure today will be critical to accelerating the transition to electric commercial transport and making e-mobility a practical and scalable solution for Zambia and the wider region,” he said.
Mr Andersen said introduction of SANY electric trucks comes at an opportune time as individuals and businesses increasingly explore electric mobility as a way of reducing carbon emissions.
Mr Andersen described the launch as a potential turning point for Zambia’s commercial vehicle industry.
“E-mobility is the future.”
Government is promoting electric vehicles to reduce fuel costs and carbon emissions, although adoption remains low, with only 525 electric vehicles registered as of mid-2026.