Firefly Solar Farm takes delivery of electric Linhai side-by-sides

The two units are used for travelling and maintenance purposes around the solar farm

Smith Power Equipment and one of its dealers have delivered two Linhai side-by-sides to Northern Cape-based Firefly Solar Farm. The two units are used for travelling and maintenance purposes around the solar farm. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards a more digital world and triggered changes in online shopping behaviours that are likely to have lasting effects. A case in point is Smith Power’s recent sale of two Linhai T-Boss e-UTV 2×4 electric side-by-sides to a Northern Cape-based solar farm operator.

Phil Greenall, Dealer Sales Manager at Smith Power Equipment, explains that the customer initially made an online enquiry, much in line with the current digital shift to procurement. After six months of investigations a decision was taken which saw Smith Power delivering the two units.

The two Linhai T-Boss e-UTV 2×4 electric side-by-sides are being used for mobility around the solar farm, mainly by technicians doing maintenance work.

Officially introduced in October 2019, the range has already attracted interest from several customers, especially those seeking ‘greener’ alternatives. Smith Power Equipment embarked on an education drive, informing the market about the benefits of side-by-sides.

“The electric motor translates into less maintenance and running costs. A major benefit for the consumer is the lower operating costs: the units don’t need fuel, which leads to substantial savings given that fuel accounts for a larger share of the vehicle’s running costs. Furthermore they don’t need servicing, meaning a further reduction in associated costs and downtime,” explains Greenall.

The T-Boss e-UTV side-by-side can carry two people with a 150 kg cargo box at the back, allowing the maintenance crew to carry their tools around. In fact, these units are compact and provide better mobility around the farm than a bakkie, which the customer used before.

Smith Power Equipment has been the sole importer and distributor of Linhai ATVs and UTVs in South Africa since 2002. Armed with a determined marketing strategy and a distinguished aftersales support regime, SPE has made Linhai a force to be reckoned in the UTV and ATV market in South Africa. Testimony to that fact is the steady increase in Linhai sales, not only in South Africa, but across southern Africa.