Tag: Manufacturing

Africa’s Critical Minerals and the Reshaping of Global Semiconductor Supply Chains

Africa’s critical minerals—including cobalt, platinum group metals, lithium, graphite, and rare earth elements—are essential for semiconductor production, electric vehicles, data centers, and advanced electronics. As semiconductor manufacturing consolidates in strategic networks across the United States, Taiwan, and Japan, African countries face a policy crossroads: align with Western supply chain standards, deepen engagement with China, or pursue multi-vector strategies. Regional initiatives like AfCFTA and national beneficiation policies offer pathways to capture greater value, strengthen industrial sovereignty, and redefine Africa’s role in the global technology economy.

iCAUR lifts the curtain on the high-tech engineering behind its electric 03T SUV

iCAUR has revealed the advanced engineering behind its all-electric 03T SUV ahead of its 2026 launch in South Africa. Developed by Chery Group’s new-energy brand, the iCAUR 03T features a full aviation-grade aluminium body, precision joining technologies including SPR, FDS fastening and laser deep fusion welding, and extensive durability testing across extreme temperatures, humidity, dust, and off-road conditions. Produced at Chery’s AI-enabled South Smart Factory, the 03T benefits from 100% automated manufacturing, real-time IoT quality monitoring, and renewable-energy-powered production. The iCAUR 03T sets a new benchmark for electric SUV durability, lightweight construction, and smart manufacturing innovation.

South African Startup Sensor Networks Partners with Global Geyser Leader Ariston

In a significant milestone for local innovation, South African startup Sensor Networks has secured a groundbreaking partnership with Ariston, the world’s largest geyser manufacturer, headquartered in Italy. This collaboration will introduce state-of-the-art smart water heating solutions to South African homes in 2025, marking a major achievement for homegrown technology on the global stage.

Solar energy trends in 2025

A tsunami of cheap Chinese solar panels flooding Europe, an increasing taste for rooftop solar and a boom for small, medium and large-scale battery storage. These are the three strongest trends in solar energy as we move into the new year, as seen by Midsummer Executive VP Sven Lindström.