Electric vehicles are no longer confined to wealthy regions. Across Africa, governments, entrepreneurs, and tech innovators are shifting gears toward cleaner, more efficient transport. From electric buses navigating Nairobi’s streets to solar-charging stations sprouting in Casablanca, the continent is quietly building an electric revolution tailored to local realities. Below, we explore ten African countries leading the charge.
South Africa
South Africa is setting its sights on becoming an electric vehicle manufacturing powerhouse. on July 24, 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered a powerful speech at the BMW Rosslyn plant, celebrating the launch of the BMW X3 Plug-in Hybrid. He called the event a “symbol of trust” in the country’s industrial capability and reaffirmed South Africa’s goal to become a global leader in new energy vehicle production.
Ramaphosa highlighted the significance of the Electric Vehicle White Paper and its incentive programme, which aim to foster a stable environment for investment, localization, and industry growth. With rich deposits of platinum and manganese, a skilled workforce, and an established automotive sector, South Africa is well-positioned to produce battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and even hydrogen-powered models.
Despite challenges like load-shedding, South Africa is exploring smart charging systems and vehicle-to-grid technology. Charging stations are expanding in cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, and new manufacturing incentives are attracting global investors. The country’s journey toward clean mobility is powered by ambition, planning, and a firm presidential push.
Ghana
Ghana is emerging as a regional leader in electric mobility, thanks to a blend of bold government policy and grassroots innovation. In December 2023, the Ministry of Transport officially launched the National Electric Vehicle Policy, designed to reduce emissions, promote sustainable transport, and align with global climate goals
The policy emphasizes a just and inclusive transition, aiming to benefit all segments of society while fostering innovation and job creation. It includes import duty waivers for EVs, incentives for charging infrastructure, and training programs for mechanics to retrofit and maintain electric vehicles.
As of late 2023, Ghana had an estimated 17,000 electric vehicles on its roads — the highest in Africa according to the Energy Minister, with a growing fleet of electric motorbikes, tuk-tuks, and private cars. Local companies like Drive EV Gh and X-Charge EV GH are building showrooms and charging stations, while the Drive Electric Initiative is promoting solar-powered infrastructure and public awareness campaigns.
The government’s roadmap includes ambitious targets: 60% of government fleets to be electric by 2035, and a complete phase-out of petrol and diesel vehicle imports by 2045. Ghana is also investing in assembling electric buses and cars locally, with the first batch of e-buses already commissioned for Metro Mass Transit.
Charging infrastructure is expanding through public-private partnerships, with solar-powered stations being piloted in Accra and along major highways. The Energy Commission recently launched Ghana’s first solar EV charging station, showcasing the country’s commitment to clean energy and innovation
Morocco
Morocco is transforming into a green auto export powerhouse. The country aims to produce 100,000 EVs by 2025 and make 60 percent of its car exports electric by 2030. Global battery firms are investing billions, and local companies like NEO Motors are championing the “Made in Morocco” label. With 70 percent of the world’s phosphate reserves, the country is also building strategic battery value chains. Infrastructure plans include 2,500 charging stations by 2026, often powered by solar energy according to Morocco World News
Kenya
Kenya’s vibrant startup scene is electrifying transport. Companies like BasiGo and Roam Electric are manufacturing buses and bikes built for local needs. Import duties were lowered in 2019, and the government is finalizing a National E-Mobility Policy. With over 90 percent of electricity sourced from renewables, Kenya’s energy profile is ideal for electric mobility. Private charging networks like CHAJI Services are helping close the infrastructure gap.
Nigeria
Nigeria is laying the foundations for EV expansion. While a comprehensive policy is still in the works, the National Automotive Design and Development Council is promoting tax exemptions and local manufacturing. Charging infrastructure is growing, especially in Lagos and university campuses. Startups like MAX and Jet Motors are developing electric buses and vehicles, with new public campaigns pushing EV awareness
Rwanda
Rwanda is electrifying its motorcycle taxi industry with help from startups like Ampersand. These bikes include battery-swapping features and are backed by government incentives. Rwanda is also turning used EV batteries into mini-grid storage, embracing circular economy principles. The country’s focused policies and supportive ecosystem are helping it scale quickly as cited by New Time Rwanda
Ethiopia
Ethiopia offers full tax breaks on imported EVs and zero duties for locally assembled ones. More than 30,000 EVs are already on the roads, and the government plans to add 148,000 electric cars and 4,800 buses by 2032. With near-total reliance on renewable electricity, the country’s clean energy profile is perfect for electric mobility. Local companies like Marathon Motors are assembling vehicles, and new stations are being built through public-private partnerships , according to Addis Standard
Tanzania
Tanzania is witnessing a quiet revolution led by electric motorbikes and tuk-tuks. Startups such as WAGA Motion and TRI are producing affordable EVs for urban markets. A national EV policy is expected soon, and the government is exploring tax incentives and solar-powered infrastructure. Despite challenges like low rural access and limited technician training, the momentum is growing
Benin
Benin is transforming its motorcycle culture with over 3,000 electric bikes on the road. Startups like Spiro are converting petrol two-wheelers into electric ones, offering affordable options for city commuting. The government is supporting pilot programs and expanding charging stations through donor partnerships.
Angola
Angola’s EV journey is in its early stages. With over 1,000 electric cars and growing interest, the government is seeking partnerships for infrastructure and assembly. Solar-powered charging and tax incentives are part of the roadmap. Angola’s move into clean mobility could unlock broader regional opportunities
Conclusion
Africa’s move to electric vehicles is not just copying other countries. It is using smart local ideas, new policies, and clean energy. Each country is creating its own way forward, like Morocco with battery-making and Rwanda with electric bikes. As the world shifts to electric transport, Africa is also moving ahead in its own strong and unique way.
