Green Gears Shift: SKF and Duracar Partner to Power Africa's Sustainable EV Future

Green Gears Shift: SKF and Duracar Partner to Power Africa's Sustainable EV Future

SKF will supply Duracar with state-of-the-art bearings and other precision-engineered components

SKF will supply Duracar with state-of-the-art bearings and other precision-engineered components

Date: 23, July

Written by: Ryan Mlilo

Johannesburg, South Africa - In a landmark collaboration for Africa's burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry, global bearing giant SKF and light electric vehicle (LEV) innovator Duracar have announced a strategic partnership. This alliance promises to propel sustainable transportation solutions to the forefront, aligning perfectly with the continent's ambitious green energy goals.


SKF, a world leader in bearing technology, brings its expertise in precision-engineered components to the table. Their state-of-the-art bearings and parts will be integrated into Duracar's LEVs, renowned for their efficiency and eco-friendly design. This synergy is expected to significantly enhance the performance and reliability of Duracar's electric vehicles, ultimately reducing their carbon footprint.


Environmental consciousness is deeply ingrained in both companies' philosophies. SKF boasts a long-standing commitment to sustainability, evident in their operations and product development. By incorporating SKF's advanced components, Duracar aims to extend the lifespan and efficiency of their LEVs, minimizing their environmental impact and paving the way for a greener future. This partnership echoes SKF's dedication to fostering innovation that champions environmental protection and promotes sustainable practices.


"We are thrilled to partner with Duracar, a company that embraces our vision for a sustainable future in Africa," declared Philipp Herlein, Head of Global Automotive Aftermarket at SKF. "Our expertise in rotation, chassis, and powertrain technologies will be instrumental in bolstering the performance and sustainability of Duracar's LEVs. This collaboration underscores our commitment to exceeding environmental expectations, not just today, but for generations to come."


Sharing Herlein's enthusiasm, Ludwig Wijma, COO of Duracar, commented, "Collaborating with SKF allows us to leverage their unparalleled knowledge in precision engineering and sustainability. This ensures our LEVs are not only efficient but also environmentally responsible and built with the highest quality standards. This partnership marks a significant milestone for Duracar as we continue to drive innovation within the African LEV market."


Experts believe this partnership carries significant weight for Africa's engineering, mining, and energy sectors. The increased adoption of LEVs can revolutionize last-mile delivery within bustling cities and contribute to cleaner transportation solutions for mining operations. Additionally, a robust EV ecosystem can pave the way for a more sustainable and self-sufficient energy future for the continent.


Ryan Mlilo is a technology and sustainability journalist focusing on the transformative impact of green innovations in Africa.