Switch to electric cars in Burkina Faso, how much are you saving?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are beginning to gain traction in Burkina Faso, driven by government incentives, growing interest in sustainable transport, and the country’s push toward renewable energy sources. Although EV infrastructure is still in the early stages, efforts are being made to increase the availability of charging stations, especially in urban areas like Ouagadougou. The lower cost of electricity compared to gasoline, along with reduced maintenance needs, makes EVs an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers, offering potential savings on energy costs. However, challenges remain, including the high initial cost of EVs, limited charging stations in rural areas, and a smaller variety of models available in the market. As battery technology advances and infrastructure expands, EV adoption is expected to rise, helping Burkina Faso contribute to global climate goals and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
| Aspect | Electric Vehicles (EVs) | Gasoline Vehicles (GVs) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | Over 85% efficiency, meaning most energy is used for propulsion. | Lower efficiency due to heat loss in combustion. |
| Consumption (100 km) | 15 kWh (electricity) | 6 liters (gasoline) |
| Cost per 100 km | $1.95 (15 kWh × $0.13/kWh, Burkina Faso’s electricity price) | $6.00 (6 liters × $1.00/liter, estimated fuel cost) |
| Annual Cost (15,000 km) | $292.50 | $900.00 |
| Annual Cost (25,000 km) | $487.50 | $1,500.00 |
| Annual Cost (30,000 km) | $585.00 | $1,800.00 |
| Annual Cost (50,000 km) | $975.00 | $3,000.00 |
| Annual Cost (70,000 km) | $1,365.00 | $4,200.00 |
| Annual Savings (15,000 km) | $607.50 | – |
| Annual Savings (25,000 km) | $1,012.50 | – |
| Annual Savings (30,000 km) | $1,215.00 | – |
| Annual Savings (50,000 km) | $2,025.00 | – |
| Annual Savings (70,000 km) | $2,835.00 | – |
| Maintenance Costs | Lower: No oil changes, timing belts, or exhaust systems. | Higher: Requires regular oil changes and more mechanical upkeep. |
| CO₂ Emissions | Very low, especially with Burkina Faso’s growing focus on renewable energy. | High emissions due to combustion of fossil fuels. |
| Government Incentives | Potential tax reductions, registration fee exemptions, and lower import duties. | No special incentives. |
| Infrastructure Growth | Slowly expanding charging network, especially in urban areas like Ouagadougou. | Well-established fuel station network. |
| Energy Security | Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels. | Dependent on global oil markets and price fluctuations. |
| Technology Evolution | Battery lifespan improving, cost reductions expected. | Limited innovation in efficiency gains. |
| Long-Term Viability | Key to Burkina Faso’s sustainable transportation future. | Facing increasing environmental and regulatory constraints. |