Why EVs are gaining ground in Africa
Ethiopia bans gas cars as a $5.6B battery factory reshapes the continent's future.
Deep Dive
Africa is emerging as a major EV battleground despite infrastructure hurdles. Ethiopia banned non-electric private vehicle imports in 2024, leveraging new hydropower. Rwanda restricted gas-powered motorbikes in Kigali. A $5.6 billion battery gigafactory by Gotion High-Tech will produce 20 GWh annually from 2026. BYD is expanding to 70 dealerships in South Africa. A Nature Energy study predicts EVs will be cheaper than gas vehicles in Africa by 2040, driven by local assembly and policy.
Why It Matters
Africa's rapid EV adoption could leapfrog traditional auto markets, creating a massive new clean transportation ecosystem.