Thula Solutions has officially started production of South Africa’s first electric safari vehicle (ESV), ushering in a new era for eco-friendly game drives. Unlike traditional petrol and diesel vehicles, the ESV promises a quieter, more immersive bush experience, allowing tourists to enjoy the natural sounds of wildlife without the interference of noisy engines.
The production of this innovative electric 4×4 is taking place at Hi-Tech Automotive in Port Elizabeth. Hi-Tech, renowned for its expertise in crafting licensed replicas of classic American cars like the 1967 Shelby GT500, was chosen for its reputation for precision engineering and craftsmanship. Thula Solutions CEO Gary Davies lauded the partnership, emphasizing that Hi-Tech’s dedication to quality would help deliver an unparalleled safari experience.
Eight Years of Innovation and Development
The journey to create the ESV began eight years ago, with Thula initially retrofitting traditional game-viewers with electric powertrains. However, the company soon shifted its focus to developing a bespoke electric platform designed specifically for game drives. In early 2022, Thula unveiled a prototype, developed in collaboration with Brandt BRV, sparking considerable interest.
By mid-2023, Thula had secured 248 reservations through its website, with top-tier lodges such as andBeyond, the More Group, and Singita expressing keen interest. Davies confidently predicted that electric game vehicles would become the standard at luxury lodges within the next few years.
ESV Specs: Performance Meets Sustainability
Set to be officially unveiled in December 2024, the Thula ESV boasts impressive specifications:
- Power: Dual motors with a combined output of 150kW
- Torque: 3,100Nm per wheel
- Battery: 60kWh lithium-ion phosphate
- Range: Up to 225km on a single charge
- Charging Speed: Full charge in six hours at 10kW
Designed for daily game drives of up to 75km, the ESV’s range is more than sufficient. Compared to diesel game-viewers, which can cost R5,400 monthly for fuel, the ESV’s charging cost is less than half, making it both eco-friendly and economical.
Enhancing the Safari Experience
One of the ESV’s standout features is its quiet operation. Unlike diesel-powered vehicles, the electric 4×4 allows passengers to hear the delicate sounds of nature—birds chirping, insects buzzing, and the rustle of leaves—creating a deeper connection with the environment. The absence of exhaust fumes also ensures animals remain undisturbed, offering a closer and more authentic wildlife experience.
Charging is convenient, as the vehicle can be replenished during midday breaks when parked at lodges. Many luxury lodges already utilize solar power, further reducing running costs.
Optional Add-Ons and Rental Options
Thula offers a range of luxury add-ons, including a built-in coffee machine, heated seats, a fridge, and sundowner chairs. Although the purchase price has not been disclosed, Thula provides rental options starting at R29,610 per month on a 60-month contract. Maintenance and software updates are included, and dissatisfied customers can terminate the rental if the vehicle does not meet expectations.
Expanding Beyond Land: Thula’s Electric Boat Powertrain
Thula’s innovation extends to water, with the company developing an electric boat powertrain already in use at Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana. Powered by solar panels on the boat’s roof, it has been operating efficiently for over two months, demonstrating the viability of solar-powered eco-tourism.
Conclusion
Thula Solutions’ electric safari vehicle represents a bold step forward for sustainable tourism in South Africa. With quieter, cleaner game drives and the promise of reduced operational costs, the ESV is poised to revolutionize the safari industry while preserving the natural beauty of the African bush.
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