22 April 2025 – In a defining moment for South Africa’s transition to sustainable transport solutions, the Paruk Group of Companies, a leading bus operator, signed a Letter of Intent to purchase 100 Lion’s Explorer E electric buses in partnership with MAN Truck & Bus South Africa (MTBSA). This landmark agreement underscores the growing commitment of the private sector to advancing green mobility and bolstering the country’s automotive evolution toward a cleaner future.
The announcement was made at MTBSA’s official investment announcement of the Lion’s Explorer E bus during their Earth Day event hosted at the Truck Assembly Plant in Pinetown. The Lion’s Explorer E is the nation’s first locally manufactured eBus, marking a significant step toward zero-emission public transport.
This commitment by the Paruk Group represents a game-changing investment in eco-friendly transit, supporting the objectives of South Africa’s Just Energy Transition. The deployment of these 100 electric buses will drastically reduce carbon emissions, enhance commuter experiences, and promote economic resilience through local manufacturing and job creation.
Mr. Jan Aichinger, Managing Director of MAN Truck & Bus South Africa, commented: “At MAN, we recognize the immense responsibility we have in shaping sustainable mobility solutions. The Lion’s Explorer E is a testament to our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. Paruk Group’s decision to invest in zero-emission transport reinforces the private sector’s vital role in accelerating South Africa’s green transition.
With R48.8 million invested in engineering and green manufacturing, MTBSA is leading efforts to decarbonize public transport, aligning with global sustainability goals. The Lion’s Explorer E, produced at MTBS’s carbon-neutral Pinetown facility, showcases cutting-edge technology and an unwavering dedication to economic and environmental impact.
Public-private collaboration is essential in propelling South Africa toward a greener, more inclusive economy. Hon. Mkhuleko Hlengwa, Deputy Minister of the Department of Transport, acknowledged the significance of the Paruk Group’s commitment, stating: “Today, we see a bold move towards an innovative, climate-conscious future. The purchase of 100 eBuses signals a collective determination to shape a transport sector that is not only efficient but sustainable for generations to come.”
As South Africa embraces clean energy and advances toward an electric-powered transport system, the Paruk Group’s landmark investment amplifies the movement for sustainability, innovation, and resilience in the nation’s public transport landscape.
