What Citroën Ami’s Africa trip shows about the future of EVs

• Africa’s electrification rate is around 45%, the lowest in the world. This limits the adoption of EVs, as charging stations are scarce. But the advent of solar-powered cars such as the Citroën Ami could be a gamechanger. Such cars are viable in any location, as long as the sun shines.

• Solar-powered cars are new to Africa. Some dealers (such as Ghana’s Solar Taxi) import them from China and sell or rent them out. However, a local manufacturing industry of solar cars is emerging on the continent. For instance, Bako Motors, a German-Tunisian startup, is emerging as a frontrunner by developing high-end solar EVs in Tunisia.

• Our take: As costs decline, solar-powered cars will become more prevalent especially in Africa which receives plenty of sunshine all year round and where they will help to reduce range anxiety… Read more (2 min)

Hyundai to build $400m car factory in Algeria

• Hyundai makes a number of EVs, including the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, Kona Electric, and Tucson Plug-In Hybrid. These models are increasingly becoming popular in a number of markets in Africa where the carmaker has dealerships. Some of these EVs will be made at the Algeria factory.

• Algeria's automotive industry continues to grow, with Hyundai planning a significant return after exiting the market in 2020. The Hyundai plant is a significant development for the country, promising thousands of jobs and reinforcing its position as a key player in the African automotive industry.

• Our take: North Africa is opening a larger lead over other regions in Africa in attracting major automotive investments, mainly due to the region’s proximity to Europe, a significant car market… Read more (2 min)

Key networking events to attend in 2025

• The E-Mobility and Infrastructure Africa Summit in Nairobi, Kenya on 21st May will feature prominent figures from Africa's electric motorcycle industry, including Christopher Maara (Founder of Kiri EV), Robert Amanor-Boadu (Head of Fleet at Wahu Mobility), Mostafa Mohamed (CEO of Ikarus Electric), and Celeste Vogel (Co-founder of eWAKA Mobility). 

• EV and Charge Live Africa happening on 25th May in South Africa will feature industry leaders from Accenture, Takealot, Bolt, and C40 Cities discussing EV adoption, urban mobility, and sustainable logistics. This is a key event for those interested in fleet electrification and smart transport in Africa.

• Our take: Click read more to explore Africa’s top events—connect, invest, and innovate.… Read more (2 min)

  _____________/