Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) says it has moved one step closer to carbon neutrality with a new photovoltaic (PV) technology pilot project at its plant.
Photovoltaic (PV) technology and devices (solar panels) convert sunlight into electrical energy and contributes to carbon reduction in the manufacturing process.
Mercedes-Benz Group AG, the parent company of MBSA is continuously working on the development of its sustainable business strategy and has set the goal of CO₂ reduction by 2039 with Ambition2039.
Mercedes-Benz intends going all-electric until the end of this decade and aims to cut its carbon footprint per passenger car by more than half by 2030 compared with 2020 levels. To achieve this goal, the key levers include electrifying the vehicle fleet, charging with green energy, improving battery technology, an extensive use of recycled materials and renewable energy in production.
In line with this ambition, MBSA piloted this PV project with the objective of evaluating the solar yield for the East London plant. The 360-kilowatt peak (kWp) solar panels were installed on the roof of its recently commissioned body shop building. Since the start of the pilot project in January 2022, it has thus far produced impressive solar yields.
Commenting on the successful launch of the PV pilot project, Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-South Africa and Executive Director of Manufacturing, Andreas Brand, said: “As Mercedes-Benz, our goal is to make the world’s most desirable cars. The launch of the PV pilot project attests to our commitment to climate protection and the sustainable manufacturing of our products. We are proud of our successful pilot project here in East London and look forward to actively making a significant contribution to Sustainable Production/Co2 neutral manufacturing.”
The next phase of the project will complete the plant baseload requirement, with future projects on newly commissioned buildings.
Other manufacturers that recently announced plans for reduction in their carbon footprint in South Africa include Volkswagen and Ford.
General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.
Audi South Africa has expanded its compact SUV line-up with the introduction of the new Q2 S line derivative.
LDV South Africa has added a new entry model to its line‑up with the launch of the T60 Utility Single Cab. Priced from R299 900, it is positioned as one of the most affordable single‑cab bakkies in the country, aimed at businesses and fleet operators who require a dependable workhorse with modern equipment.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Cars are the ultimate symbol of freedom, independence and individualism. They offer the freedom to ‘go anywhere,’ whenever it suits and with whom one chooses.
Sarah Redshaw
General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.
Young South African motorists are increasingly opting for more affordable and practical vehicles as the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets, while still maintaining comprehensive insurance cover.
The row over BMW’s Spider-Man promotion is not really about superheroes. It is about trust, control and the creeping feeling that modern cars are becoming digital platforms first and private possessions second.
