As the number of new Electric Vehicle (EV) introductions steadily increasesin South Africa, mostly from luxury car brands, the need for more affordable EVs is growing and the incoming Funky FE-1 is expected to be the cheapest EV in South Africa when it reportedly arrives in 2023.

Imagecourtesy of Nafisa Akabor

If there’s a person that has her finger on the pulse in the world of technology, it’s renowned technology and EV journalist, Nafisa Akabor.

Nafisa is no stranger to Cars.co.za and not only has she been a regular content contributor over the years but she has also been a judge in previous iterations of the #CarsAwards.

In a recent article published by TimesLive, Nafisa details the forthcoming introduction of what will likely be South Africa’s cheapest EV when it goes on sale in 2023, the Funky FE-1.

Earlier this year, the Eleksa CityBug was deemed to be the cheapest electric vehicle in South Africa and it’s currently priced at R237 000, but that crown will likely be passed on to the incoming Funky FE-1 which is expected to be priced at roughly R190 000.

Earlier this month, the Funky FE-1 made an appearance at the Smarter Mobility Africa summit in Gauteng and is expected to undergo homologation in November 2022. If successful, the Funky FE-1 will be available to local buyers in 2023.

The Funky FE-1 might appeal to consumers who commute short distances within a city environment.

Co-founder of Funky Electric (sole distributor), Adele Theron, commented, “It’s small, but big enough, it’s got a cuteness factor and it’s perfect for suburban use because of its top speed. We are targeting moms taking kids to school, students going to university, dads on a short commute to work or those on quick shopping trips. It’s perfect as a second car.”

What powers the Funky FE-1?

The Funky FE-1 is powered by a 4kW electric motor and is equipped with a 100Ah lead-acid battery that offers a range of up to 100 km. Top speed is rated at 60 kph and the Funky FE-1 is said to weigh only 450 kg. Charging takes about 10 hours using a standard 3-point plug and the battery has a lifespan of 2 years after which it can be swopped for a new battery or replaced with a lithium-ion battery.

Some key features include a multifunction steering wheel, a touchscreen system with Bluetooth, reverse cameras, a rudimentary sound system, electric windows, central locking and an emergency stop button.

Funky Electric will be the sole distributor for the FE-1 in Africa, Australia, New Zealand and the UK while South Africa will be the first market to receive the Funky FE-1. Interestingly, due to its diminutive size and weight, the Funky FE-1 isn’t subjected to the same crippling import duties that plague a typical EV and pricing is therefore far more reasonable.

Is the Funky FE-1 something you are willing to entertain considering rising fuel prices and the increasing maintenance cost of ICE vehicles?

We will keep you updated as soon as more information becomes available.

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