Zimi, a startup based in Stellenbosch, South Africa that develops infrastructure and software for electric commercial fleets, has raised 50 million rand ($2.6 million). The Development Bank of Southern Africa, a regional development finance institution, led the funding round.
Keyo Ventures, an investment firm, and a group of angel investors also provided capital. Zimi will deploy the funds over the next 18 months to build 200 fleet charging stations and support the rollout of approximately 2,000 electric vehicles.
The startup targets private fleet operators looking to transition away from petrol and diesel engines. Rather than selling vehicles independently, the company bundles electric vehicles, solar power systems, charging infrastructure and energy management software.
The commercial package includes leasing options to reduce upfront capital requirements for logistics operators. Company data indicates the bundled approach can reduce energy costs per kilometre by up to 90 percent for fleet operators.
The investment marks a continuation of the development bank's strategy to fund domestic electric vehicle infrastructure. The institution previously financed Zero Carbon Charge, a network operator focused on public charging infrastructure, in 2025. This latest transaction gives the bank financial exposure to both the public charging and private commercial fleet sectors within the South African electric vehicle market.
The requirement for reliable power, charging infrastructure and software oversight remains a primary barrier for fleet electrification, exacerbated by South Africa's ongoing electricity challenges. The capital will test Zimi's ability to maintain system reliability and execute the infrastructure deployment targets across its commercial network.
