EVs face growing threat from cheap autogas

• CNG is an especially attractive choice for motorists in countries that have it in abundance such as Egypt, Nigeria, Tanzania, Algeria and Mozambique. Many thousands of fuel vehicles in Africa are being converted annually to run on CNG. In countries without CNG, vehicles are being retrofitted to run on LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), also saving motorists up to 50% in fuel costs.  

• Autogas is a viable and affordable alternative for motorists not yet ready to switch to electric, particularly where charging infrastructure is not fully developed.

• Our take: Africa’s investments in renewable energy will cut power prices in the long run, and this could eventually make EVs more cost-effective than vehicles using CNG and LPG… Read more (2 min)

Roam launches new motorcycle model

• African EV companies such as Ampersand, Spiro and Dodai all regularly launch new models. They are usually designed to enhance competitiveness via improved performance and functionality. 

• EV technology is evolving rapidly, rendering best-selling models from just a few years ago outdated. As a result, EVs in general will be updated more frequently than their fuel counterparts.

• Our take: Rider needs, local ideas and smart design will drive the next generation of EVs… Read more (2 min)

EV charging prices rise fastest in Kenya

• Electricity prices in Kenya and Nigeria are adjusted monthly to reflect the cost of generation and pass-through costs such as forex expenses. This makes charging prices more volatile. In South Africa, national electricity prices are changed annually.  

• The majority of EVs in Kenya, especially electric motorcycles, are used for commercial purposes to save fuel costs. This means any increase in charging prices can affect future usage.  

• Our take: Repeated increases in charging prices could dissuade individuals from switching to EVs as the economic incentive for ownership declines… Read more (2 min)