South African electric vehicle startup Zimi has received a grant of $320,000 (about R6 million) from the Energy and Environment Partnership (EEP Africa Trust Fund).
This funding will support Zimi’s testing of a technology called vehicle-to-grid (V2G).
V2G technology enables electric vehicles (EVs) to send power back to homes, businesses, or the electricity grid whenever necessary.
This can significantly help in countries like South Africa, where electricity supply issues, including frequent power outages, affect daily life and the economy.
EEP Africa chose Zimi among only 32 successful projects from more than 530 applications.
The grant’s primary purpose is to test the practical use of V2G technology, identify challenges, and develop a business model suitable for current grid conditions.
Zimi aims to support large logistics companies in switching to electric vehicles. This transition is expected to lower their operational costs and reduce carbon emissions.
By adopting V2G, idle vehicles in a fleet can serve as backup energy sources, helping businesses manage energy needs more effectively.
Michael Maas, CEO of Zimi, explained that early adoption by logistics companies will pave the way for wider consumer acceptance of electric vehicles.
“Our successful collaborations, including with Bakers Logistics, demonstrate our capability and reliability,” he said.
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