CNN recently reported on the growing trend of electric vehicles (EVs) in Ethiopia, particularly in the capital city of Addis Ababa. The city has been experiencing fuel shortages and price spikes, leading to long lines at gas stations. However, some residents like Mikial Belayneh have opted for EVs to avoid these issues. Belayneh, who drives an imported Toyota bZ4X, finds that a full charge is sufficient for two days of driving.
Addis Ababa is witnessing a rapid transition to EVs, with electric buses, minibuses, cars, and motorbikes becoming more common on the streets. The government of Ethiopia has taken bold steps to promote EV adoption, including banning the import of gas-powered passenger vehicles and reducing customs taxes on imported EVs. This has led to a significant increase in the number of EVs in the country, with around 100,000 EVs currently on the roads and a projected quadrupling of this number by 2032.
One of the driving factors behind Ethiopia’s push for EVs is the country’s reliance on expensive imported fuel and its abundant clean hydropower resources. The government aims to reduce both financial and environmental costs by transitioning to electric transportation. The lower import taxes on EV parts have also spurred local manufacturing of EVs, further boosting the adoption of these vehicles.
While the cost of purchasing an EV remains high for many Ethiopians, efforts are being made to make electric transportation more accessible to all income levels. Organizations are advocating for increased investment in electric buses and public transport to make EVs a viable option for more people. Despite the challenges, Ethiopia has made significant progress in transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric power, with EVs already accounting for nearly 10% of all vehicles in the country.
The trend towards EVs is not limited to Ethiopia, as other African countries are also seeing growth in electric transportation. In Kenya, electric motorbikes, known as boda bodas, have seen a 500% increase in numbers following tax incentives from the government. Electric buses and public transport are also becoming more common in cities like Nairobi. While challenges remain, such as the need for more infrastructure and government support, the future looks promising for electric vehicles in Africa.
In conclusion, Ethiopia’s ambitious efforts to promote EVs are setting a positive example for the continent. By prioritizing clean energy and sustainable transportation, the country is not only reducing its reliance on imported fuel but also contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment. As more African nations follow suit, the shift towards electric vehicles could have far-reaching benefits for both people and the planet.