The Clicks Group and United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) have partnered with Everlectric and Investec Sustainable Solutions to introduce South Africa’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.
Locally fitted and made from lightweight composite structural PVC – the same material used in super yachts – the innovative refrigeration boxes are 50% (200 kilograms) lighter than standard models, making them a truly green solution. The refrigerated box, coupled with the solar-powered refrigeration system, make the vehicles ideal for urban pharma logistics.
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.”
Green Innovation
Everlectric CEO Ndia Magadagela highlighted the significance of the new fleet: “We are very excited to be powering UPD’s green logistics journey. We’ve built a pharma compliant logistics solution that not only decarbonises UPD’s fleet but is operationally excellent, economical and provides more payload – perfectly suited for South African conditions.”
Each EV has a 220–250 km range, a one-ton capacity, and 6.5m³ of refrigerated space. The vehicles are expected to cut approximately one ton of CO₂ per month each, with the entire fleet projected to save 2.4 million litres of diesel and reduce CO₂ emissions by 6.3 million kilograms over its lifespan. They also operate at a quarter of the fuel cost of diesel alternatives and have lower maintenance expenses.
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.
A Commitment to Sustainable Healthcare
Clicks Group CEO Bertina Engelbrecht reinforced the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices: “Switching to electric vehicles isn’t just about reducing our carbon footprint—it’s about creating a smarter, greener way to deliver healthcare. This initiative reflects the group’s commitment to reducing our environmental impact, empowering small businesses, and building a healthier, more sustainable future.”