The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is on the rise globally, with Africa also experiencing significant interest, albeit with unique challenges. While the continent is witnessing a gradual increase in the availability and affordability of EVs, many regions still grapple with inadequate charging infrastructure and unreliable electricity supply. These factors pose significant hurdles for potential EV owners, who rely on stable power sources to charge their vehicles.
However, recent studies indicate a positive shift. Research published in Nature Energy suggests that by 2040, electric scooters and minibuses could become more cost-effective than traditional gasoline vehicles in Africa. The continent’s 54 nations each have distinct needs and challenges, yet there is an increasing optimism driven by emerging policies, improved grid systems, and the growth of local manufacturing capabilities.
Ethiopia is leading the charge with groundbreaking policies, having banned the importation of non-electric vehicles in 2024. This move is largely economic; the nation has recently completed Africa’s largest hydropower project, providing a reliable and affordable source of clean electricity. Similarly, Rwanda has initiated a ban on new registrations for gas-powered motorbikes in Kigali, stimulating the demand for electric alternatives in a city where motorbike taxis are prevalent. The growing market for two- and three-wheeled electric vehicles reflects a global trend, with EVs accounting for nearly 45% of new sales in this category as of 2025.
Local assembly of electric two-wheelers is gaining momentum in countries like Morocco, Kenya, and Rwanda, as highlighted by Nelson Nsitem, an analyst at BloombergNEF. Companies such as Spiro are actively investing in the region, having raised $100 million to scale their operations and establish over 1,500 battery swap stations across multiple African nations. Furthermore, the establishment of Africa’s first battery gigafactory by Gotion High-Tech signifies a major leap in local battery production, expected to begin operations in 2026. This factory aims to produce batteries for hundreds of thousands of EVs annually.
Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are increasingly eyeing African markets as they seek to expand beyond their saturated domestic landscape. BYD, the largest EV manufacturer globally, is aggressively setting up dealership networks in South Africa, aiming for a total of 70 by year-end. This influx of affordable, high-quality EV options, bolstered by economies of scale from China, represents a potential game changer for African consumers.
Source: Why EVs are gaining ground in Africa via MIT Technology Review