E-mobility is gaining traction in Africa. Driven by government initiatives, the desire for more sustainable transport solutions and the economic advantages of electric vehicles, a new market with its own dynamic is emerging. Unlike in many industrialized countries, where electric cars are the focus, Africa is dominated by electric motorcycles and motorcycle taxis (“boda-bodas”) as well as innovative local vehicle solutions.
E-motorcycles and e-taxis are often significantly cheaper to operate than gasoline-powered vehicles, which constitutes a decisive advantage for drivers and companies. Many countries also have a high proportion of renewable power generation, which supports climate-friendly electrification. Government programs, for example in Kenya and Ethiopia, provide targeted incentives through import regulations, investments in charging infrastructure and incentive schemes.
Local companies are making a significant contribution to this development. In Rwanda, for instance, Ampersand produces affordable electric motorcycles for taxi drivers and operates a growing network of battery swap stations. In Burkina Faso, ITAOUA has launched a solar-powered electric vehicle. Senegal, meanwhile, is relying on Africa’s first electric bus fleet to relieve the burden on public transport and reduce emissions in Dakar. Ethiopia is going even further – since January 30, 2024, a ban on the import of new cars with internal combustion engines has been in force there, with the aim of accelerating the country’s transition to electromobility.
The benefits are considerable: less air pollution from diesel and gasoline vehicles, less noise and significantly reduced carbon emissions, especially in cities. However, there are still many barriers to overcome. The network of charging and battery swap stations is sparse, recycling structures for batteries are lacking and the acquisition costs are a hurdle for many, despite low overheads.
Despite these challenges, it is clear that Africa is developing its own decentralized form of electromobility that is closely linked to renewable energies. This offers the opportunity to make the continent less dependent on fossil fuel imports and to create sustainable mobility for millions of people.