Mbabane – Foton’s all-electric Transvan EV is drawing renewed interest among businesses across Southern Africa as companies look for cleaner ways to move goods. The model was recently tested in Eswatini by Independent News Digital Editor Adekunle Owolabi, who took the van for a short drive with Mbabane Motors Sales and Marketing representative Majid Daude to assess its performance and suitability for local commercial use.
The vehicle, priced at E850,000, is designed for urban logistics and last-mile delivery, offering a zero-emission alternative to diesel panel vans. Built on Foton’s Blue Line platform of fully electric commercial models, the Transvan EV, also known in some markets as the eView or iBlue EV, features a 50.23 kWh CATL lithium-iron phosphate battery that delivers an estimated 195 km driving range on a full charge.
According to the manufacturer, the van is powered by a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor developed in partnership with Jingjin Electric, producing up to 85 kW (114 hp) and 290 Nm of torque. It uses a single-speed automatic transmission and reaches a top speed of 100 km/h, making it suitable for city routes and regional town runs. 
Foton has positioned the van for businesses that frequently move medium-weight goods. It carries a payload of up to 1,150 kg and offers a spacious cargo volume of seven to nine cubic metres depending on configuration. The body measures 5,320 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width and up to 2,285 mm in height, supported by a long 3,050 mm wheelbase that allows for better load stability. Dual sliding doors and a high roof design make loading and internal movement easier.
Charging options include both DC fast charging, taking around 40 minutes from 20 to 80 percent, and an AC slow-charge mode that fills the battery from 20 to 100 percent in roughly eight hours. The van is fitted with 15-inch wheels, radial tyres, disc brakes in the front and drum brakes at the rear. Its turning radius of 6.25 metres supports manoeuvrability in narrow delivery zones.
Inside the cabin, the EV provides practical comforts such as air conditioning, automatic climate control, electric windows, and a Bluetooth-enabled sound system with USB support. The driving experience is guided by power-assisted steering, while safety features include multiple airbags, ABS, EBD, traction control, Hill Start Assist, an immobiliser and rear parking sensors.
During the road test in Mbabane, the van’s smooth handling stood out. Speaking after the short drive, Owolabi noted that the model “will be good for business, especially for operators who care about the climate and a cleaner environment,” pointing to the vehicle’s quiet operation and steady response on the road.
Mbabane Motors, Eswatini’s flagship for the Foton brand in the region, supports the Transvan EV with a 5-year 200,000 km battery and electric motor warranty, alongside roadside assistance for the same period.
