South African electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions startup Zimi has secured a R6 million ($320,000) grant from the Energy and Environment Partnership (EEP) Africa Trust Fund to pilot its innovative vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. This funding will enable Zimi to explore how EVs can not only consume electricity but also supply it back to homes, businesses, or the national grid when needed.
Selected as one of just 32 funded initiatives out of more than 530 applicants, Zimi is now among a small group of companies supported by EEP Africa, a key financier of clean energy innovation across Southern and Eastern Africa. In a country struggling with persistent shedding of load and an unstable energy grid, V2G technology holds transformative potential. Parked EVs could become mobile power reserves, offering backup energy during outages and easing pressure on South Africa’s electricity infrastructure.
According to Michael Maas, CEO of Zimi, the grant will fund practical testing of V2G technology and explore the development of a viable commercial model within the constraints of South Africa’s current energy grid. “The grant aims to investigate the limitations of V2G, pilot real-world applications, and develop a sustainable business case for the local context,” Maas explained.
Zimi’s broader strategy focuses on accelerating EV adoption in the logistics sector. By partnering with large-scale delivery and transportation companies, the startup aims to reduce operational costs and emissions. With V2G integration, Zimi offers not just smart charging infrastructure but also the ability for idle electric fleets to send energy back into warehouses or even the national grid turning EVs into assets that deliver value beyond mobility.
As EV infrastructure becomes more accessible, Zimi anticipates a gradual shift in consumer behavior. While mass market adoption may take time, the company is confident that early movers—particularly commercial logistics fleets will drive momentum.
“Building a track record is crucial, and we’ve done that through our partnerships with major players like Bakers Logistics,” Maas noted.
Zimi’s progress aligns with a broader trend in the region. The recent arrival of the Volvo EX90, one of South Africa’s first EVs featuring bi-directional charging, signals growing readiness for vehicle-to-grid innovation in both the consumer and commercial markets.
