An assessment of the development of electric vehicles in Africa

The transition to electric mobility in Africa is gradually progressing but remains at an early and uneven stage across the continent. Adoption pathways differ by resource endowment, with fossil fuel–rich countries favoring hybrid vehicles and renewable-rich nations, such as Ethiopia, prioritizing battery electric vehicles. Overall adoption remains the lowest globally due to challenges including unreliable power infrastructure, limited technical capacity, and weak regulatory frameworks. While countries such as Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, Rwanda, and South Africa are advancing policies and infrastructure, the market is still developing. Despite these constraints, electric mobility offers significant benefits, including reduced emissions and air pollution, lower petroleum dependence, improved energy security, and opportunities for local value creation and employment.