How Janus Electric’s $5M Deal Could Transform Sub-Saharan Heavy Transport

Strategic Partnership with EVUNI

Janus Electric Holdings Limited (ASX – JNS), an Australian innovator in heavy vehicle electrification, has formalised a significant partnership with EVUNI Pte Ltd, a pioneering electro-mobility investment firm focused on the sub-Saharan region. This collaboration is anchored by a $5 million share placement agreement and a five-year exclusive distribution and licence agreement, positioning Janus to expand its footprint into a promising but challenging market.

The initial tranche of $3.5 million is expected to complete by early October 2025, with the subsequent $1.5 million tranche contingent on shareholder approval and the deployment of at least one Janus Conversion Unit by March 2026. This staged investment approach reflects a cautious but optimistic pathway to market entry.

Market Expansion and Production Commitments

Under the distribution and licence agreement, EVUNI will serve as the exclusive distributor of Janus technology across sub-Saharan Africa for an initial five-year term, with an option to extend for another five years. The agreement sets clear minimum order quantities, starting at 100 units through June 2026 and increasing to 250 units annually thereafter. These units include conversion kits, battery swap systems, and charging infrastructure, all integral to Janus’s zero-emission heavy transport solutions.

Janus CEO Ian Campbell highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership, noting the alignment of operational plans and the potential for Janus technology to pioneer heavy transport electrification in the region. The first converted truck is slated to enter the Janus ecosystem in early 2026, marking a tangible milestone in the rollout.

Broader Industry Implications

EVUNI’s involvement extends beyond distribution; the firm is engaged in significant regional projects such as the International Minerals Exchange Hub, which aims to electrify transport between major manganese reserves and port facilities. This synergy could accelerate adoption of Janus’s technology in mining and logistics sectors, critical to sub-Saharan economic development and decarbonisation efforts.

While Janus retains ownership of its intellectual property, the partnership leverages EVUNI’s existing network and infrastructure, potentially smoothing market entry barriers. However, the conditional nature of the second tranche and the ramp-up in production volumes introduce execution risks that investors will watch closely.

Overall, this deal represents a meaningful step for Janus Electric as it transitions from a national player to an international contender in the electrification of heavy transport, with sub-Saharan Africa offering both opportunity and complexity.