Vodacom and SmartOps Launch South African E-Hailing Program

Vodacom and SmartOps have launched a new South African e-hailing programme targeting 55,000 vehicles, 110,000 driver opportunities, and 66% EV adoption. This initiative represents a significant expansion in the local transport sector.

Up to 55,000 new vehicles could enter South Africa’s market over the next 9 to 12 months under this initiative. The project aims to support up to 110,000 driver opportunities.

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The initiative also aims for 66% of the fleet to be electric vehicles. It combines vehicle finance, fleet management, connectivity, and safety services to bring more individuals into the market through vehicle ownership.

Scaling the E-Hailing Programme

Vehicles supported through the programme are expected to operate on platforms including Uber and Bolt. The initiative involves partners across finance, automotive, technology, and fleet services to lower the operational burden of owning an e-hailing vehicle.

Qualifying individual investors, including employed or self-employed applicants earning at least R15,300 in gross monthly income, can apply for approved vehicles financed through Nedbank MFC. Institutional investors can also participate.

Once approved, the investor retains ownership of the vehicle and leases it to SmartOps Fleet, which manages the operational side of the asset. That includes driver recruitment, insurance, maintenance, licensing, and tracking.

The investor remains responsible for the underlying vehicle-finance agreement and the first instalment. SmartOps makes subsequent payments and pays the investor a commission calculated at up to 40% of the monthly vehicle instalment.

Technology and Electric Mobility

Vodacom serves as the programme’s connectivity and fintech partner, supporting the digital systems around the vehicles. Fidelity Services Group provides vehicle tracking and dash-camera technology, while Thiba Ingozi provides a safety app and physical panic buttons.

The combination is intended to give operators better visibility over vehicles while adding safety tools. A major part of the programme is its planned shift toward electric mobility.

The partners are targeting 66% EVs, equivalent to roughly 36,300 vehicles if the full target is reached. SmartOps says approved vehicle options include models from Dongfeng and Renault.

This makes the programme one of the most ambitious attempts to connect e-hailing expansion with electric-vehicle deployment in South Africa. It is being launched during Transport Month to widen market participation.

Impact and Future Outlook

For investors, the model removes much of the day-to-day work associated with operating a vehicle. For drivers, the planned increase in fleet size creates more opportunities to earn through existing market platforms.

Vodacom CEO Sitho Mdlalose said the programme brings together technology and financial services to broaden participation in South Africa’s mobility economy. SmartOps CEO Mahene Benzane added the partnership supports the vehicle throughout its lifecycle.

Why it Matters to Africa

If the partners reach 55,000 vehicles, the initiative could significantly expand the supply of vehicles available to platforms. The 66% EV target also gives the programme a role in South Africa’s transition toward cleaner urban mobility.

The bigger test will be execution. Success depends on how quickly vehicles can be financed and deployed, how many investors qualify, and whether the EV-heavy fleet can operate economically at scale.