What Sub-Saharan Africa Needs to Boost EV Adoption – Africa.com
Electric vehicles (EVs) offer a promising solution to the high pollution and health risks caused by vehicle emissions in sub-Saharan Africa, but their adoption faces several barriers. High costs, limited range and unreliable electricity supplies have hampered progress, with only 1,000 electric vehicles in South Africa, the region’s largest economy, as of 2022. Local initiatives such as electric scooters and public transport vehicles have already begun, but the transition will require significant capital investment in charging infrastructure and clean energy. Despite the challenges, policymakers need to prioritize incentives, adjust road regulations and develop local manufacturing to increase EV adoption. In addition to reducing emissions, local EV manufacturing could reduce reliance on second-hand imports and create jobs for the region’s citizens. Ultimately, embracing the shift to electric vehicles requires coordinated policy and infrastructure upgrades to support the region’s electric vehicle future.
source: dialogue
