Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) Supports Expansion of Electric Mobility Infrastructure Through Strategic Investment into Zimi’s EV Ecosystem

Friday 5 June 2026: In a move that marks an important step in supporting the development of electric mobility infrastructure and sustainable transport solutions in South Africa, the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) has announced a landmark investment into Zimi. This partnership represents growing institutional support for electric mobility and sustainable transport infrastructure in South Africa.

Supporting the Transition to Sustainable Mobility Transition the DBSA’s involvement transcends traditional funding; it is a strategic positioning of South Africa within the global green economy. By backing Zimi, the DBSA is actively de-risking the transition for the private sector, proving that the infrastructure required to support a fossil-fuel-free logistics corridor is not only viable but essential for national economic resilience.

“The DBSA is committed to supporting infrastructure investment that advances sustainable development and economic resilience across South Africa. Our investment in Zimi reflects the growing importance of electric mobility infrastructure in enabling lower-carbon transport systems and supporting innovation within the logistics sector,” said Phindile Masangane, Group Executive Programmes, DBSA.

Zimi’s mission is anchored in rigorous research and real-world data. Through ongoing research projects and business experiences, Zimi has dismantled the myths surrounding EV adoption in the South African context. Most notably, Zimi’s current Vehicle-to-Grid (V2X) and mobile power research has contributed valuable operational insights into the role electric vehicles and associated technologies may play within future energy and mobility systems.

“We are a research-led organisation,” stated Michael Maas, CEO and Founder of Zimi. “The data we have gathered through our pilot programs and current projects proves that South Africa is ready. With the DBSA’s backing, we are scaling a turnkey solution that allows any organization to transition from Diesel to Digital without operational friction. We aren’t just making claims; we are providing a blueprint for the future of the continent.”

This investment serves as a clarion call to South African enterprises and government bodies. Zimi and the DBSA are making EVs possible today, ensuring that the transition results in immediate savings and zero downtime. Zimi’s approach to partnerships is rooted in radical alignment, seeking to partner with organizations that share the vision for an electrified future.

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Author: Elsabe Booyens from Red Cherry Interactive on behalf of DBSA.