Switch to electric cars in São Tomé, how much are you saving?
Electric vehicles (EVs) in São Tomé and Príncipe are at an early stage of development, with limited adoption due to challenges such as high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, and a reliance on imported fossil fuels for electricity generation. However, the country has shown interest in promoting sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with increasing attention to renewable energy sources like solar power. The government is exploring ways to integrate renewable energy into the national grid, which could help make EVs more viable in the future. Currently, cities like São Tomé, the capital, are in the early phases of developing EV-friendly infrastructure, though rural areas face significant challenges with charging accessibility. Despite the limited infrastructure and awareness, EVs offer the potential for savings on fuel costs and reduced maintenance. As the government invests in renewable energy and electric mobility, EVs could play a crucial role in reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels, supporting environmental sustainability, and achieving long-term energy security goals. With the right policies and investments, EV adoption in São Tomé and Príncipe could grow, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future.
| 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, São Tomé’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 | Low emissions potential, depending on the growth of renewable energy in São Tomé. | High emissions due to combustion of fossil fuels. |
| Government Incentives | Potential for future incentives as the government develops policies for EV adoption. | No special incentives. |
| Infrastructure Growth | Limited charging networks; urban areas like São Tomé city have some, but rural areas are underserved. | Well-established fuel station network. |
| Energy Security | Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels if electricity is sourced from renewables. | Dependent on global oil markets and price fluctuations. |
| Technology Evolution | Battery lifespan improving, with cost reductions expected. | Limited innovation in fuel efficiency, with stricter regulations on emissions. |
| Long-Term Viability | Could be key to São Tomé’s sustainable transportation future, especially with the integration of renewable energy. | Facing increasing environmental and regulatory constraints. |