South Africa’s Nissan NP200 “replacement” is a three-wheel micro bakkie

Small business owners in South Africa have been clamouring for a half-ton capacity bakkie to finally replace the Nissan NP200 since the popular little bakkie left our market, and Fiat aims to be the one to answer the call.

The Italian carmaker has unveiled the Tris, the first micro-mobility vehicle for South Africa, during the 2026 Transport Evolution Summit.

Stellantis South Africa Director of Micromobility, Kabelo Rabotho, explained that the segment is far bigger than any one format.

“At its simplest, micromobility is about matching the journey to the most efficient tool for that journey,” he said.

“Not every trip needs a large car. Not every delivery needs a van. We are not replacing other forms of transport, we are filling a ‘gap’ that, in the context of Africa, is becoming increasingly apparent as the continent grows.”

Stellantis will introduce the fully electric three-wheeled micro bakkie by the end of 2026, with pricing under wraps until then.

What to expect

The Tris will arrive in three modular derivatives – Flat Bed, Pick-Up and Chassis-Cabin – to cater to a diverse range of professional functions.

Measuring only 3.17 meters with a 3.05-meter turning radius, the compact micro bakkie is ideal for urban deliveries.

It also features a wide-track rear axle, an enlarged wheelbase, and 12-inch wheels, ensuring its stability.

The cargo area is also spacious, offering approximately 2.25 square meters of load space and the ability to accommodate a standard pallet.

The Tris weighs only 1,025 kg, yet has a homologated payload capacity of a maximum of 540kg, making it an ideal half-tonner.

In terms of styling, the Tris features Fiat’s new signature pixel LED design and includes ignition-activated low beams, a reverse buzzer, and a washer tank.

While their load bin layouts differ, all Tris models share a common cabin, with a driver-centric design and ergonomics, even if it is a single-seater.

It features multiple storage compartments, including a 3-litre glovebox and additional storage nets, with an accessory range developed with Fiat Centro Stile and Mopar – the creative design hub for Fiat.

As a result, the three-wheeler is fitted with a 5.7-inch digital cluster that displays essential driving information, as well as a USB-C plug and a 12V socket.

As an electric workhorse, the micro bakkie’s drivetrain has been designed to balance performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

Powered by a 48-volt electric motor delivering 9kW and 45Nm, the Tris can reach a top speed of 45 km/h, despite not having a clutch or gearbox.

Charging its 6.9 kWh battery can be done with its built-in 220V plug, which offers a WMTC range of up to 90km, and charging from 0 to 80% in 3.5 hours.

A complete recharge of the battery, which can also be found in the Fiat Topolino micro-EV sold in Europe, will take 4 hours and 40 minutes using a standard domestic plug.