The Clicks Group and United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) have partnered with Everlectric and Investec Sustainable Solutions to introduce SA’s first fleet of zero-emission, pharma-compliant electric vehicles (EVs) with solar-powered refrigeration. Rolling out in Gauteng and the Western Cape, the fleet of 42 Maxus eDeliver 3 panel vans, manufactured by SAIC Maxus and supplied by Everlectric, features an industry-first refrigerated cargo box powered entirely by solar energy.
These EVs boast 6,5m3 of refrigerated space and 1-ton capacity. The fridge space is entirely powered by the van’s built-in solar panels. It is purpose-made from lightweight composite structural PVC, the same material used in super yachts, making them approximately 50% (200kg) lighter than standard refrigeration boxes. The refrigeration system is accompanied by an inverter and a battery system, meaning it can run for up to two days without sunlight. The vehicle’s own battery can also be used to power the refrigeration unit.
The panel vans are equipped with a 50.5 kWh battery pack, providing a range of 220km to 250km on a single charge. To support the fleet, UPD has further expanded its renewable energy infrastructure, adding 1,170 additional solar panels and several high-speed chargers, ensuring each EV starts the day fully charged and ready for delivery.
Everlectric provides real time, proactive charge support via live advanced telematics to UPD’s delivery EVs. This allows for the maximisation of operational efficiencies, increased driver safety and ensures that the EVs do not run out of range.
Due to their efficiency and solar-powered refrigeration units, these vehicles are projected to save about a ton of CO2 emissions per vehicle per month.
Driving transformation through the owner-driver programme
The vehicles will be owned by UPD drivers under an owner-driver scheme financed by Investec. Trevor McCoy, Managing Executive of UPD, underscored the broader impact of the initiative: "Since launching in 2003, UPD’s owner-driver programme has supported the sustainable growth of independent drivers. What makes this rollout even more exciting is that 27% of the EVs will be owned by black female entrepreneurs, driving both transformation and sustainability in the logistics sector."
Melanie Humphries, Head of Investec Sustainable Solutions, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to empowering sustainability: "We are proud to partner with UPD in structuring a specialised financing solution for their owner-driver scheme – one that lays the groundwork for impactful change and propels South Africa forward through environmental consciousness, inclusive growth and resilience. This partnership represents true entrepreneurship, empowerment, and upliftment while exemplifying our commitment to sustainability, renewable energy, and the growth of small businesses.”
