The Central Mechanical and Equipment Department’s (CMED's) 100 percent electric Riddara RD6 pickup truck has emerged as one of the major attractions at the 2026 Mine Entra exhibition in Bulawayo.
Running under the theme "Unearth, Transform, Prosper: Anchoring Economic Transformation Through Mining Value Chains," this year's exhibition has brought together key players in the mining, engineering and transport sectors to showcase technologies that can improve productivity while reducing operational costs.
Among the innovations on display, the electric Riddara vehicle at the CMED stand has attracted significant attention from delegates, mining executives and members of the public eager to understand how electric mobility could help address Zimbabwe's energy challenges while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Increased adoption of electric vehicles is expected to complement investments in renewable energy while reducing fuel costs and carbon emissions.
Speaking at the CMED exhibition stand, a sales representative who declined to be named said the response from visitors had been overwhelmingly positive.
"Visitors are impressed by its performance, charging capabilities and its potential to reduce operating costs, particularly for the mining sector. We believe electric vehicles are the future of transport in Zimbabwe," the representative said.
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The Riddara RD6 can travel between 373 and 400 kilometres on a single charge, depending on the model.
It supports DC fast charging, allowing the battery to recharge from 30 to 80 percent in about 32 to 45 minutes, while it can also be charged using conventional AC systems or compatible solar installations.
The electric pickup has a payload capacity exceeding one tonne and is equipped with power outlets that enable users to operate electrical equipment directly from the vehicle, making it suitable for mining, agriculture and construction.
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