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Switch to electric cars in Madagascar, how much are you saving?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are gradually gaining traction in Madagascar, encouraged by government incentives, a growing interest in renewable energy, and efforts to reduce environmental impact. EV adoption in the country is supported by the increasing use of solar power and other renewable sources of energy, which makes EVs a natural fit for the country’s energy landscape. While electricity costs are relatively low compared to gasoline, helping make EVs more cost-effective in the long run, the high initial purchase cost and limited availability of EV models are barriers to widespread adoption.
Charging infrastructure is still in its early stages, with most stations concentrated in urban areas like Antananarivo, leaving rural areas underserved. However, Madagascar’s efforts to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels make EVs an attractive option for improving energy security. As battery technology continues to advance and infrastructure expands, the potential for increased EV adoption grows. This shift is expected to help Madagascar reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to its long-term environmental and sustainability goals.

Aspect | Electric Vehicles (EVs) | Gasoline Vehicles |
---|---|---|
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 | $1.77 (15 kWh × $0.118/kWh, Madagascar’s electricity price) | $7.20 (6 liters × $1.20/liter, estimated fuel cost) |
Annual Cost (15,000 km) | $265.50 | $1,080.00 |
Annual Cost (25,000 km) | $442.50 | $1,800.00 |
Annual Cost (30,000 km) | $531.00 | $2,160.00 |
Annual Cost (50,000 km) | $885.00 | $3,600.00 |
Annual Cost (70,000 km) | $1,239.00 | $5,040.00 |
Annual Savings (15,000 km) | $814.50 | – |
Annual Savings (25,000 km) | $1,357.50 | – |
Annual Savings (30,000 km) | $1,629.00 | – |
Annual Savings (50,000 km) | $2,715.00 | – |
Annual Savings (70,000 km) | $3,801.00 | – |
Maintenance Costs | Lower: No oil changes, timing belts, or exhaust systems. | Higher: Requires regular oil changes and more mechanical upkeep. |
CO₂ Emissions | Very low due to Madagascar’s potential reliance on renewable energy (such as solar power). | High emissions due to combustion of fossil fuels. |
Government Incentives | Potential incentives as part of national and international efforts for sustainable transportation. | No special incentives. |
Infrastructure Growth | Slowly improving, with some urban centers like Antananarivo seeing EV charging stations. | Well-established fuel station network. |
Energy Security | Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, especially as renewable energy use grows. | Dependent on global oil markets and price fluctuations. |
Technology Evolution | Battery lifespan improving, and potential for cost reductions as technology matures. | Limited innovation in efficiency gains. |
Long-Term Viability | Essential for Madagascar’s sustainable transportation future and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. | Facing increasing environmental and regulatory constraints. |