Switch to electric cars in Mali, how much are you saving?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are slowly emerging in Mali, driven by growing interest in sustainable mobility and the potential for long-term cost savings. While electricity costs are lower than fuel, making EVs a more economical option, challenges such as limited charging infrastructure, high import costs, and a lack of government incentives hinder widespread adoption. Major cities like Bamako are beginning to see small-scale EV adoption, but rural areas face significant barriers due to inadequate charging networks. Despite these challenges, advancements in battery technology and potential future investments in renewable energy and infrastructure could support EV growth in Mali, contributing to the country’s broader sustainability and emissions reduction 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 | $2.25 (15 kWh × $0.15/kWh, estimated electricity cost) | $6.00 (6 liters × $1.00/liter, estimated fuel cost) |
| Annual Cost (15,000 km) | $337.50 | $900.00 |
| Annual Cost (25,000 km) | $562.50 | $1,500.00 |
| Annual Cost (30,000 km) | $675.00 | $1,800.00 |
| Annual Cost (50,000 km) | $1,125.00 | $3,000.00 |
| Annual Cost (70,000 km) | $1,575.00 | $4,200.00 |
| Annual Savings (15,000 km) | $562.50 | – |
| Annual Savings (25,000 km) | $937.50 | – |
| Annual Savings (30,000 km) | $1,125.00 | – |
| Annual Savings (50,000 km) | $1,875.00 | – |
| Annual Savings (70,000 km) | $2,625.00 | – |
| Maintenance Costs | Lower: No oil changes, timing belts, or exhaust systems. | Higher: Requires regular oil changes and more mechanical upkeep. |
| CO₂ Emissions | Lower, but depends on Mali’s electricity generation mix. | High emissions due to combustion of fossil fuels. |
| Government Incentives | Limited or no official incentives yet. | No special incentives. |
| Infrastructure Growth | Very limited charging network, mainly in urban areas like Bamako. | Well-established fuel station network across the country. |
| Energy Security | Potential to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. | Dependent on global oil markets and price fluctuations. |
| Technology Evolution | Battery technology improving, but EV availability is limited. | Limited innovation in efficiency gains. |
| Long-Term Viability | Future potential if infrastructure and incentives improve. | Facing increasing environmental and regulatory constraints. |