2023-04-26“China's thriving electric vehicles (EVs) are exerting an increasing influence on Africa, impacting the electrification process across the continent.”
It was recently reported by the renowned clean energy media Cleantechnica that, in Ethiopia, Chinese-manufactured Volkswagen ID car models are prevalent in dealerships and on roads, becoming a mainstream product in the local EV market. In Ghana, several companies and startups provide over 20 Chinese-made electric vehicle models, including sedans, SUVs, and small trucks. In Rwanda, Go Kabisa has introduced Geely's Geometry E pure electric SUV, offering consumers a cost-effective choice...
During interviews conducted by journalists from the Global Times in several African countries, it was observed that Kenya, Morocco, Ghana, Ethiopia, Egypt, Rwanda, among others, are rapidly advancing in the development of EVs, with a significant presence of Chinese electric cars. The Egyptian newspaper, Al Akhbar, stated that due to their affordability and quality, both Chinese and multinational brands manufactured in China are reshaping the dynamics of the African automotive market.
The monopoly of Japanese and European Cars is starting to be reshaped
Chinese EVs are gaining recognition among the local population in Africa. When the Global Times reporters inquired about Chinese EV brands, many locals in West African countries knew well car names such as BYD, Chery, Dongfeng, and Letin.
As EVs manufactured by China become increasingly popular across African nations, China has emerged as a key driving force in the electrification transformation of Africa's automotive industry. The Algerian newspaper, Oriental News, commented that Chinese-made electric cars are gaining a growing market share in Africa, contributing essential technological and product support to Africa's electrification transformation.
The original landscape of the African automotive market is undergoing a transformation with the rapid introduction of Chinese EVs. Affordable and high-quality automobiles manufactured by China are progressively displacing those originating from Japan and Europe, establishing themselves as significant contributors and influencers within the African automotive sector.
"Chinese EVs exhibit excellent performance and outstanding design, meeting the commercial needs in Africa," said Makuka, a car dealer in Kenya, during an interview with the Global Times.
Electrification Vision in Africa
Currently, many African countries express the intention to formulate and implement policies and plans related to EVs.
According to the African Automotive Industry Outlook 2021 report issued by African Development Bank, Egypt plans to invest USD1.35 billion in constructing EV charging stations and manufacturing plants to promote the local EV industry. The Ethiopian government has introduced a series of tax reduction policies and subsidies to encourage consumers to purchase EVs. Kenya is also beginning to promote EVs, planning to gradually introduce more EVs and charging facilities in the coming years. South Africa aims to achieve 25% of all new car sales as EVs by 2035. Additionally, countries like Nigeria, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and others are advancing EV development plans.
