TechPression

Tag: Electric Vehicles

  • South Africa mulls EV incentives, subsidies to boost local industry 

    South Africa mulls EV incentives, subsidies to boost local industry 

    South Africa is considering a range of incentives, including tax rebates and subsidies, to promote the local manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). 

    President Cyril Ramaphosa announced these potential measures during his speech at the South African Auto Week conference in Cape Town on Thursday. These initiatives aim to build a greener future and ensure that South Africa remains competitive in the global automotive market as its trading partners shift toward EVs.

    Read also: Nigerian government gifts 2,000 CNG tricycles to youths for Independence Day

    Incentives for local EV and hydrogen vehicle manufacturing

    The proposed scheme would enable manufacturers of electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen vehicles to claim 150 percent of qualifying investment expenditures in the first year. 

    This comes after finance minister Enoch Godongwana introduced much-anticipated EV incentives earlier this year. These incentives are designed to attract investment for local production; however, they are set to take effect in 2026, raising concerns in the industry about possible delays affecting operations.

    Challenges facing South Africa’s EV industry

    The South African automotive industry, which generated over R271 billion ($15.3 billion) in exports last year, faces numerous challenges, including delays in finalising a national electric vehicle policy.

    Industry executives have voiced frustration over the lack of a clear policy direction, slowing long-term investment decisions. 

    Another hurdle is the country’s underdeveloped network of EV charging stations and a 25 percent import tax on electric vehicles, which does not apply to traditional cars, further discouraging EV adoption.

    Read also: Nigerian government boosts transit with 64 CNG buses

    The Importance of EV Infrastructure in South Africa

    In his speech, President Ramaphosa emphasised the need to develop EV recharging infrastructure and called for greater collaboration between the public and private sectors. 

    Without significant investment in electric vehicle infrastructure, South Africa risks falling behind other African nations, such as Egypt and Ethiopia, advancing rapidly in EV production and adoption.

    South Africa’s strategy for greener transportation and global competitiveness

    South Africa’s exploration of subsidies and tax rebates for electric vehicles represents a significant step towards more sustainable transportation options.

    Nevertheless, the effectiveness of these measures hinges on prompt execution and the establishment of a strong electric vehicle infrastructure to facilitate broad EV adoption throughout the nation.

  • Toyota plans to launch three electric vehicles in Nigeria

    Toyota plans to launch three electric vehicles in Nigeria

    Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, has announced its intention to introduce three electric cars (EVs) in Nigeria over the next three years. The company aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote green transport worldwide. Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL), the company’s Nigerian unit, oversees the project. Toyota is committed to the Nigerian market and believes in its potential for electric transportation.

    Toyota’s decision to employ electric cars (EVs) in Nigeria is a significant step towards making the world a better place to live in the future. Bringing these three electric cars to Nigeria will provide citizens with more ecologically friendly modes of transportation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the country’s air quality.

    Read also: Tanzanian Firms Introduce Electric Bajajis

    The specific variants that will be delivered have yet to be announced, but they will most certainly join Toyota’s increasing line of hybrid and all-electric vehicles. These EVs will be designed to meet the needs and preferences of Nigerian drivers, assuring a smooth and comfortable ride while focusing on efficiency and environmental friendliness.

    Toyota’s commitment to sustainable mobility

    Toyota’s decision to employ electric cars (EVs) in Nigeria demonstrates that the corporation values eco-friendly transportation. Toyota, the world’s leading automaker, has been at the forefront of developing environmentally friendly solutions. Toyota’s decision to sell these three electric automobiles in Nigeria demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing environmentally friendly transportation options worldwide.

    The benefits of electric vehicles in Nigeria

    Toyota’s electric car debut in Nigeria will benefit the country and its citizens. EVs use less energy than regular cars that run on petrol, so fuel costs are lower for customers. This is especially crucial in Nigeria, where fuel costs fluctuate dramatically and significantly impact people’s spending.

    Also, electric cars don’t emit direct emissions, so they are cleaner and better for the environment than cars with internal combustion engines. This is very important for Nigeria because its big towns have been having trouble with air pollution. By encouraging more people to buy electric cars, Toyota helps clean the air and improve people’s health.

    Read also: Radisson Blu steps up with electric vehicle services for guests in Nairobi

    The release of Toyota electric cars in Nigeria also allows the country to depend less on fuel from other countries while encouraging the growth of its energy infrastructure. More Nigerians using electric cars means more demand for charging stations and other equipment that helps them work. This will create new business opportunities and boost the economy.

    To sum up, Toyota’s plan to release three electric cars in Nigeria over the next three years is a big step towards promoting environmentally friendly transportation.

    Toyota’s eco-friendly transportation choices help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and provide Nigerian consumers with more cost-effective and efficient mobility solutions. As the world moves towards a more environmentally friendly future, Toyota’s decision to sell electric cars in Nigeria sets an example for other automakers and shows that the company is dedicated to making the future cleaner and better.

  • Kenya electric vehicles receive special green number plates

    Kenya electric vehicles receive special green number plates

    The Kenyan government has introduced green number plates designed specifically for electric vehicles. This happened on Wednesday as part of an effort to increase the country’s reliance on electric vehicles. All electric vehicles, including electric motorcycles, will be required to have the designated licence plates.

    The government is actively encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles in an effort to lessen the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions.

    Kenya is taking a giant leap towards more environmentally friendly transportation, according to Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who made the announcement at Wednesday’s draft e-mobility policy launch at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). The policy calls for the issuance of unique licence plates to motorcyclists and electric vehicle drivers.

    Read also: Ghana Aims for Electric Vehicle Adoption in Public Transport

    The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) considerably decreases greenhouse gas emissions and lowers the petroleum import bill, which is currently at KES 628.4 billion, according to Kipchumba Murkomen, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport.

    The CS claims that the green number plates will bring more attention to electric vehicles. More people will be encouraged to consider switching to e-mobility in the long run by this change.

    Specifically, green licence plates are reserved for official vehicles used by Kenyan national governments. Number plates for county government vehicles will need to be changed to a different colour moving forward.

    An unveiling of the Draft National Electric Mobility Policy took place while Murkomen was speaking. The public is welcome to weigh in on the National Electric Mobility Policy Draft at this time. The policy’s stated goal is to promote the expansion of electric mobility across all land, air, and sea transportation modalities.

    In addition, it will provide a detailed plan for Kenya to move away from ICEs, which are currently in use. Incentives for electric vehicle adoption and local manufacturing support are also proposed in the policy draft. Murkomen observed that additional manufacturing jobs would be created as a result of the expansion of the electric vehicle sector. The government has pledged to develop the fledgling sector by enlisting the help of private sector actors, foreign investors, and academic institutions.

    The Kenyan government is actively preparing to switch to electric vehicles. The primary goal of this plan is to reduce the financial strain on taxpayers caused by the upkeep of fuel and ICE vehicles.

    CS Murkomen announced that a plan to gradually switch over all GoK vehicles from gas-powered to electric vehicles is being presented to the Cabinet. Over time, this will help save the government a tonne of money on fuel and maintenance. In addition, the Ministry’s headquarters will soon have to charge infrastructure.

    Kenya and US Millennium Change Corporation 

    Kenya and the United States Millennium Change Corporation (MCC) inked a Ksh.8.7 billion ($60 million) agreement in September 2023. Known as the Kenya Urban Mobility and Growth Threshold Programme, the MCC deal is a government initiative.

    Read also: Possible EVs aims to introduce electric vehicles, for a greener Nigeria

    Four projects in Kenya were funded through the programme. Three separate projects are currently underway: Integrated Transport Planning, First and Last Mile Connections, and Detailed Land Use. Lastly, it will pay for the BRT Project or bus rapid transit.

    The purpose of the agreement is to provide funding for the purchase of electric buses for the Bus Rapid Transit system in Nairobi. It was recently announced that all vehicles operating on Nairobi’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network will be environmentally friendly.

    There was also an African Climate Summit in Nairobi, which the announcement follows. The government’s goal of making Nairobi more efficient and cleaner is being reaffirmed by this.

  • Ghana Aims for Electric Vehicle Adoption in Public Transport

    Ghana Aims for Electric Vehicle Adoption in Public Transport


    Ghana‘s Vice President, Dr. Bawumia, has announced that the government is working on a policy framework to promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) in public transportation. The initiative aligns with Ghana’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering transportation costs.

    Transitioning to Electric Vehicles

    Dr. Bawumia expressed his vision for Ghana’s public transport to shift entirely from reliance on petrol and diesel to fully embracing electric vehicles. He emphasised the feasibility of this transition and stressed the importance of adopting EVs as a matter of government policy.

    Dr. Bawumia made these remarks during a visit to Solar Taxi, a Ghanaian electric vehicle assembly company located in Accra. Solar Taxi, founded in 2018, specialises in assembling and manufacturing electric cars, motorcycles, buses, and battery packs for electric vehicles. The company has supplied 500 electric vehicles to the Ghanaian market and operates with a workforce, 90% of whom are female.

    Solar Taxi also possesses the capability to convert traditional petrol or diesel-powered vehicles into electric ones, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solution. The company provides financing options for EVs, including motorcycles, cars, and buses, allowing customers to pay over time without collateral.

    Reducing Transportation Costs and Environmental Impact

    During his visit, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the importance of addressing climate change and transitioning from fossil fuels to green energy sources. He noted that Ghana spends a significant amount on fossil fuels, which significantly contributes to high transportation costs. By adopting electric vehicles, fuel costs can be significantly reduced, and the nature of electric vehicle engines requires minimal maintenance, further lowering costs.

    While acknowledging that transitioning to electric vehicles may present challenges, Vice President Bawumia emphasised the potential benefits for Ghana. These benefits include lower transportation prices, savings on foreign exchange, job creation, and opportunities for youth training in EV maintenance.

    Read also: Ghana Police Service introduces Traffictech-GH System to detect traffic offenses

    Vice President Bawumia praised the founders of Solar Taxi for their commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. He encouraged the development of a curriculum for technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions to prepare individuals for careers in EV maintenance.

    Addressing Inflation and Economic Implications

    Dr. Bawumia emphasised that fuel and transportation costs are key drivers of inflation in Ghana. Any increase in these costs has ripple effects on other economic variables, such as exchange rates, food prices, and utility expenses. Transitioning to electric vehicles can help stabilise transportation costs and reduce inflationary pressures.

    Government Support and Collaboration:

    The Vice President assured Solar Taxi and similar initiatives of the government’s commitment to collaborating and providing support to address any challenges. He expressed optimism about Ghana’s potential to lead in electric vehicle manufacturing and praised the dedication and innovation of the country’s youth.

    Ghana’s push for electric vehicles in public transportation is part of broader efforts to reduce emissions, lower costs, and create economic opportunities. Solar Taxi’s role as a pioneering electric vehicle company in Ghana exemplifies the country’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.

    A Sustainable Transportation Future

    Ghana’s government is actively exploring policies to promote the adoption of electric vehicles in public transportation. This move is in line with the country’s objectives of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and cutting transportation costs. Solar Taxi, a Ghanaian electric vehicle company, is at the forefront of this transition, assembling electric cars, motorcycles, buses, and battery packs. The government sees the shift to electric vehicles as an essential step towards reducing the cost of living for Ghanaians, improving environmental sustainability, and creating economic opportunities. Challenges exist, but the potential benefits far outweigh them, making a sustainable transportation future with electric vehicles an attainable goal for Ghana.

  • Possible EVs aims to introduce electric vehicles, for a greener Nigeria

    Possible EVs aims to introduce electric vehicles, for a greener Nigeria

    Nigeria is witnessing a transformative shift in its transportation landscape with the emergence of Possible EVs, a pioneering mobility startup. 

    This company aims to revolutionize public transportation and pave the way for a greener Nigeria. By introducing electric vehicles (EVs) into the market, Possible EVs is set to provide sustainable transportation solutions while raising awareness about the benefits of EVs.

    Under the first phase of the project, Possible EVs plans to roll out an initial fleet of 30 specially designed units for passenger transport. 

    These vehicles are aimed at providing last-mile solutions for both inter and intra-city trips, making transportation more convenient and accessible for Nigerians. The fleet will also offer shared ride options to ensure cost-effectiveness and eliminate price surges.

    Read also: Amazon plans €1 billion Investments on electric vehicle fleet

    Zero Emissions for a greener environment

    The use of electric vehicles brings a significant contribution to cleaner and greener urban environments. 

    With zero emissions, EVs’ fleet will play a crucial role in reducing air pollution and combating climate change. By embracing this eco-friendly transportation alternative, the company hopes to encourage the adoption of sustainable transportation practices throughout Nigeria.

    Mosope Olaosebikan, the CEO and founder of Possible EVs, envisions a prosperous and sustainable future for Nigeria. As a socially responsible organization, Possible EVs aims to lead the transformative journey towards a greener transportation system. Olaosebikan believes that their pioneering efforts will inspire other players in the industry to embrace sustainable practices and contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous Nigeria.

    Possible EVS to launch first 100% electric taxis in Nigeria

    Establishing Convenient Charging Infrastructure

    To ensure easy access to reliable and convenient charging infrastructure, Possible EVs plans to establish charging stations across the city of Abuja. Abuja serves as the pilot program for future expansions, allowing for seamless operations and addressing concerns about range anxiety.

     By strategically placing fast-charging infrastructure in key locations, the company aims to minimize any inconvenience associated with charging and alleviate range anxiety among EV users.

    Possible EVs prides itself on equipping its vehicles with state-of-the-art features, including spacious interiors, advanced safety systems, and user-friendly technology. 

    These features enhance the overall experience for passengers while prioritizing their comfort and security. Founded in 2021, this Africa-based startup plans to expand its operations across major Nigerian cities. By the middle of next year, Possible EVs aims to increase its fleet from the initial 30 electric taxis to over 200 units, further promoting the adoption of EVs in Nigeria.

    By introducing electric vehicles into the market and providing sustainable transportation options, the company is contributing to cleaner and greener urban environments. With their visionary CEO at the helm, Possible EVs aims to inspire other industry players to embrace sustainable practices, ultimately leading to a more prosperous Nigeria. 

    Through strategic infrastructure development and the expansion of its fleet, Possible EVs are poised to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and revolutionize public transportation throughout the country. 

  • BasiGo to deliver locally made Electric Buses in Kenya

    BasiGo to deliver locally made Electric Buses in Kenya

    BasiGo, a Kenyan e-mobility company, recently obtained $6.6 million in new funding to expedite the commercial delivery of locally constructed electric buses in the nation. This is just the most recent of several announcements that indicate that changes are about to occur in African mobility.

    BasiGo plans to deploy 15 more electric buses in January 2023, which will be used by the current bus companies in Nairobi, adding to the 25 electric buses that are now in operation as part of its pilot program. With this most recent round, BaisGo’s total fundraising as of 2022 will be $10.9 million.

    The statement came just a few weeks after Nigerian e-mobility startup Metro Africa said that its crowdfunding plans aim to raise $100 million, enabling the availability of electric vehicle parts in 10 African countries by the end of 2023.

    In an ambitious plan to lead Kenya’s transition from gasoline-powered automobiles to electric cars, KenGen, a major hydroelectric power producer in that country, recently showcased its first four electric vehicles.

    Moreso, BasiGo, which has already unveiled charging infrastructure, will start supplying locally made e-buses as part of its distinctive Pay-As-You-Drive financing scheme. According to CEO Jit Bhattacharya, the market is ready for public e-mobility.

    “Over 90% of Kenya’s electricity already comes from renewables. Yet Kenya’s transport sector relies entirely on imported petroleum fuels. By electrifying Kenya’s public transport, we can make an immediate dent in climate emissions, clean up the air in our cities, and give bus owners relief from the rising cost of diesel,” the CEO of Kenya’s e-mobility leader said.

    Read also: Nigeria Will Begin Manufacturing Electric Cars In 2023

    Africa’s increase in green innovation

    Until recently, most emerging nations could not adopt electric buses due to their high upfront costs. However, investors can purchase buses at prices equal to those of normal, diesel-powered buses because of the innovative Pay-As-You-Drive strategy.

    After introducing its first four electric vehicles in Nairobi, energy company KenGen is now promoting using them.

    Two SUVs and two double-cab pickup trucks will be utilized for data collection and policy creation by the firm, which also announced plans to place roughly 30 EV charging stations across the nation in 2023.

    According to Abraham Serem, KenGen’s interim managing director and chief executive officer, the four EV units will be used as pilot units to supply the company with data that will be used to undertake complete research into the viability of EVs.

    Metro Africa, a Nigerian EV startup, is also looking for financial partners to assist it to raise $100 million in funding to manufacture electronic vehicles and increase the supply of EV parts, including batteries, to ten African countries.

    Metro Africa’s head of international expansion, David Hoyme, told Bloomberg that the business expects to raise funds by the end of 2023, allowing it to conduct operations in Cameroon, Uganda, and Egypt.

    “In the next one year, we plan to roll out 30 EV charging stations in major cities across the country. The four acquired EVs we are launching today will give the company first-hand experience and data on electric vehicles,” he explained.

    Amazon plans €1 billion Investments on electric vehicle fleet

    ­Africa’s increase in green innovation

    The abundance of non-electric vehicles in Africa presents a lucrative potential to promote e-mobility in African cities, according to Tom Courtright, the Association for Electric Mobility and Development in Africa’s (AEMDA) research director located in Nairobi.

    Because more investors are showing interest, he thinks startups will do better in the future. Furthermore, the majority of African governments have accommodating policies that will promote the industry.

    “We just need to make sure that consumer education is undertaken alongside educating local investors so that they begin investing in the sector,” he explained.

    Insisting that 2023 projections from significant players are an indicator of the “open arms with which e-mobility has been embraced,” Courtright insists that the future of e-mobility is “prime.”

    He asserts that “the moment we have… a variety of investors pumping resources into infrastructure such as solar panels and batteries” is when e-mobility will be fully realized.

    Mordor Intelligence projects that by 2027, the African electric car market would have grown to $21.39 billion from its estimated value of $11.94 billion in 2021.

  • Uber Commences Electric Car Services

    Uber Commences Electric Car Services

    World-known ride-hailing and freight transportation service company Uber Technologies has announced its venture into electric vehicles in preparation against the growing concerns for Co2 emissions around the world. Uber electric vehicles started offering services in selected areas of India’s Delhi – NCR region. The company also announced its intentions to further expand the electric vehicle services to more areas in the coming months.

    This move is in compliance with the Indian government’s directive, which instructs ride-hailing companies to electrify a significant number of their caravans over the next few years. This directive came in 2019, when the Indian government made it mandatory for Uber and its competitor, Ola, to convert 5% of their caravans to electric by 2022 and make it 40% by April 2026.

    Uber has been globally accepted, especially in Africa, and the business prosperity has been remarkable. Before the end of 2022 first quarter, Uber recorded over one billion trips in Africa. Uber made its debut arrival in Africa, with South Africa as its first market in 2013. Currently, Uber is present in Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Ivory Coast.

    The electric vehicles are currently only available for pre-scheduled trips. Customers can access this service through the Reserve feature on the app, allowing them to choose a pick-up time for the ride up to 30 days in advance. Customers are also allowed to cancel their scheduled trips 60 minutes before their trip for no charge, according to the description on the app.

    Read also: Ford’s Promise of Electric Vehicles

    Essence Of Uber Electric Vehicles

    Uber electric vehicles are called Uber Green. There is a $1 surcharge for passengers; half goes to drivers, and half goes to Uber’s green initiatives. Drivers on Uber Green help cities move more people with rides in electric cars, including hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and 100% battery electric vehicles.

    Besides the environmental benefits, Uber points out that drivers with an EV can earn more per hour as a result of higher fares, gas savings and an extra $1-per-trip incentive for each trip they complete (up to $4K annually).

    Any eco-friendly, low-emission vehicle that runs on hybrid or 100% electric technology is eligible for Uber Green. Cars currently used for Uber Green are Toyota Prius, Honda Accord Hybrid, all Tesla models, Toyota Camry and Rav4 Hybrid, and Hyundai IONIQ electric.

    According to research, Uber Green is not more expensive. On average, it costs the same price as UberX, which is a normal fuel car. However, UberX can connect you with any car, so if your goal is choosing low-emission rides, then that is not a suitable option.

    In a released statement, an Uber spokesperson said, “As the leading mobility app in India, we are committed to supporting the Indian government’s emission goals. Expect to see more electric vehicles, be they two, three or four-wheeled, across Indian cities in the coming months.”

    The company did not share how many EV cabs were operational on its platform in India, but declared that it is working with multiple car manufacturers, OEMs and charging infra providers to build the EV business in a sustainable manner gradually. The average cost of charging an EV at a commercial charger, from almost empty to almost full, is between $10 and $30.

    Uber is also on a journey to a zero-car emissions future in London by 2025. With new and increasing regulations and driving costs for petrol and diesel vehicles, the company is committed to helping drivers make the switch to electric vehicles.

    Nigeria Will Begin Manufacturing Electric Cars In 2023

    Electric Vehicles In India

    Currently, there are 12 electric cars on sale in India. Of these, the Tata Tiago EV is the cheapest EV, while the Mercedes-Benz EQS is India’s most expensive electric car.

    Electric cars are a step ahead of petrol cars when it comes to fuel efficiency. Given that electricity costs less than petrol, the running cost of an EV is low. The fuel economy of a petrol car depends on the engine capacity and several other factors.

    The running cost of an electric vehicle is much lower than an equivalent petrol or diesel vehicle. Electric vehicles use electricity to charge their batteries instead of using fossil fuels like petrol or diesel.

    Currently, residents in India can rent a 2021 or 2022 Tesla from Hertz to drive; Teslas qualify for the Zero Emissions incentive.

    Most manufacturers have a five to eight-year warranty on their batteries. However, the current prediction is that an electric car battery will last from 10 to 20 years before they need to be replaced.