Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) has donated two Electric (EV) trucks to the Nelson Mandela University (NMU), as part of its long-term relationship with the institution aimed at fostering collaboration between industry and academia to upskill students on the ever-evolving technologies and trends in the automotive sector.
“Our collaboration with the Nelson Mandela University has helped align their curriculum with current industry trends. This is particularly important as our focus is to help improve the quality of education and equip young people with requisite skills for the future world of work”, says Celestin Ndhlovu, Executive Vice President for Corporate Services at Isuzu Motors South Africa. “Our ultimate objective is to ensure the current generation can unlock future opportunities and contribute to the broader vision of socio-economic development”, says Ndhlovu.
The two EV trucks are powered by rechargeable batteries that supply energy to electric motors enabling them to travel without emitting exhaust fumes. This is important in reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
The Nelson Mandela University has welcomed the donation of the EV trucks saying it will enhance their learning and teaching environment and help the institution impart the latest technologies into their curriculum. “Students from different faculties will gain valuable exposure with these electric vehicles. They will now be familiar with the Battery Management Systems, High Voltage Battery packs and High Torque motors”, says Andrew Young, Engineering Director at the Nelson Mandela University.
“Our engineering relationship with IMSAf started with simple component testing and went on to performance testing of some of the ISUZU ICE engines on our test equipment. This resulted in students being familiar with products produced at IMSAf and being able to contribute to manufacturing the vehicles as soon as they completed their studies”, Young adds.
The two ISUZU EV trucks (NPR 400 and FTR 850) were converted at the company’s Vehicle Conversion and Distribution Centre (VCDC) in Gqeberha in 2019 by an Australian-based company that specialises in EV technology in 2019. Tests which include battery range, charging cable compatibility and speed, and gradability tests were conducted to determine how effective the units can launch on an incline.
IMSAf remains committed to collaborate with NMU in various areas which include research, training, component testing, localisation and performance review.
