Switch to electric cars in Mauritania, how much are you saving?
Electric vehicles (EVs) in Mauritania face both challenges and potential for growth. The government has yet to introduce significant incentives to encourage EV adoption, and the country’s electricity is predominantly generated from fossil fuels, reducing the environmental benefits of EVs in the short term. However, there is a shift towards renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which could increase the attractiveness of EVs in the future. The infrastructure for EV charging is currently limited, especially outside of urban areas like Nouakchott, where most of the country’s population is concentrated. The high initial purchase cost of EVs is a significant barrier for many, but as battery prices fall globally, EVs could become more affordable for the Mauritanian middle class. Despite these challenges, Mauritania is working on diversifying its energy mix and improving infrastructure, which could foster the future growth of EVs. If renewable energy projects advance, EV adoption could contribute to reducing reliance on imported oil and help meet the country’s sustainability goals, ultimately reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with global climate objectives.
| 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, Mauritania’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 | Relatively low, but depends on electricity grid mix (fossil fuels dominate). | High emissions due to combustion of fossil fuels. |
| Government Incentives | Few incentives, with no significant subsidies or tax breaks currently. | No special incentives. |
| Infrastructure Growth | Charging infrastructure is very limited, especially outside urban areas. | Well-established fuel station network. |
| Energy Security | Potential for improvement with renewable energy, reducing dependence on imported oil. | Dependent on global oil markets and price fluctuations. |
| Technology Evolution | Battery prices are expected to decrease, and technology may improve with time. | Limited innovation in efficiency gains. |
| Long-Term Viability | Potential for growth with renewable energy and infrastructure development. | Facing increasing environmental and regulatory constraints. |