Bolt, the European mobility platform operating across Africa, announced a partnership with BYD and the South African Meter Taxi and E‑Hailing Association (SAMTEA) to introduce its electric‑vehicle (EV) ride‑hailing category in Johannesburg.

The Johannesburg launch follows Bolt’s earlier EV rollout in Cape Town, marking the company’s continued push to scale electric mobility within South Africa.

Bolt has set a target of deploying 500 electric vehicles across South Africa by December 2026, a goal it says will support cleaner and more efficient urban transport.

Graham Walker, General Manager of Bolt South Africa, highlighted that electric mobility can lower operating and maintenance costs for driver‑partners and fleet operators while contributing to cleaner city streets.

Walker added that Bolt’s strategy focuses on practical, scalable solutions built through strong partnerships with local stakeholders.

The expansion strengthens Bolt’s global EV footprint, which now includes electric ride categories in more than 70 cities worldwide and earlier electric‑mobility initiatives in Kenya and Nigeria.

South Africa remains a key market for Bolt, with the company noting a decade of operations and a contribution of roughly R3 billion to the national economy.

SAMTEA Chairperson Sibongiseni Shange emphasized that collaboration among drivers, fleet operators and service providers is essential to create a transport ecosystem that protects users, supports business and drives opportunity.