Thabo Nkosi 
Thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV) online in Tunisia? Here’s what you need to know:
- EV Sales Are Rising: Tunisia sold 17,439 EVs in Q1 2025, a 13.6% increase from 2024.
- Government Incentives: Buyers get a 10,000-dinar ($3,208) rebate, tax breaks, and reduced customs duties.
- Challenges: EVs are still expensive compared to second-hand cars, and infrastructure is limited with only ~100 charging points.
- Safe Online Buying Tips: Use secure platforms, verify sellers, check vehicle history, and use trusted payment methods like escrow.
- Shipping Costs: Importing an EV can cost $1,500–$5,000 depending on the method and fees.
- Registration: Follow customs and registration rules, and consider hiring a broker for smoother processing.
Key Takeaway: While Tunisia’s EV market is growing, careful planning and secure online practices are essential for a safe and successful purchase.
Tunisia introduces tax cuts, incentives to increase adoption of electric vehicles
Main Trends in Tunisia’s EV Market
Tunisia’s electric vehicle (EV) market is gaining traction, driven by key developments in the automotive sector. With strong consumer demand and steady GDP growth, local manufacturers are stepping up their game by investing in research and development. This shift is boosting both product quality and market competitiveness. These changes are setting the stage for meaningful efforts from both the government and the private sector.
The EV segment is emerging as a major force in Tunisia’s automotive market. While overall vehicle sales increased by 5% in Q1 2025, the EV sector continues to grow steadily.
Tunisia has set ambitious environmental goals. The Ministry of Environment plans to deploy 50,000 EVs by 2025 and 130,000 by 2030, which is projected to cut 2.2 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions. This focus on sustainability, paired with potential economic advantages, makes a strong case for EV adoption.
"Studies have shown that one of the challenges facing the development of electric mobility is the consumer’s anxiety about the availability of recharging facilities for electric cars." – Fethi Hanchi, ANME Director General
For consumers, the financial benefits are clear. EVs are far more energy-efficient; a conventional car in the same category consumes 10 times more energy than an EV, even after accounting for charging equipment and installation costs. Over time, these energy savings can help offset the higher upfront costs of EVs.
Government Support for EV Buyers
The Tunisian government has introduced a range of policies aimed at encouraging EV adoption. The Finance Act 2023 reduced customs duties on EV charging equipment to 10% and lowered the value-added tax (VAT) to 7%. This represents a significant drop – customs duties on charging stations fell from 43% to 10%, while VAT was reduced from 19% to 7%.
The Finance Bill 2025 builds on these measures. It extends the 2022 customs duty exemption for EVs, maintains the 7% VAT rate, and offers a 50% reduction in registration fees. Additionally, the reduced customs duty and VAT rates for EV chargers will remain in place until December 2027.
The government is also working on a new law to regulate EV charging as a utility. This will allow private companies to sell charging services, addressing one of the key barriers to EV adoption: limited infrastructure. As of 2025, Tunisia has only around 100 charging points available.
The economic benefits of these initiatives are substantial. The Ministry of Environment estimates that EV incentives could lead to a reduction in oil consumption by 5.9 million barrels and cut fossil fuel imports by $660 million between 2020 and 2030.
Top EV Models in Tunisia
Tunisia’s EV market is seeing an influx of new models from global manufacturers. In June 2024, BYD introduced five models, including three battery electric vehicles (Tang EV, Dolphin, and Atto 3) and two plug-in hybrids (King and Song Plus DM-i).
"BYD strives to promote the transformation of automobile electrification in Tunisia and the entire African region." – Huang Zhixue, General Manager of BYD Middle East and Africa Auto Sales Division
BYD’s presence in Tunisia reflects a broader trend. In April 2025, electric car registrations from Chinese manufacturers in Europe increased by 59% year on year, with BYD’s sales skyrocketing by 359% during the same period.
Premium brands are also making their mark. The all-electric Porsche Macan was launched in Tunisia in 2025, signaling growing consumer trust in high-end EVs.
"Today, with the all-electric Macan, we continue our commitment to sustainable mobility while maintaining our passion for performance." – Dr. Manfred Braeunl, CEO of Porsche Middle East & Africa FZE
"It is an honor to see Porsche, a brand synonymous with performance and innovation, take an important step towards electrification with the new all-electric Macan." – Anouar Ben Ammar, CEO of Ennakl Automobiles
BYD’s rapid growth demonstrates the potential of Tunisia’s EV market. In April 2025, BYD outperformed several established European brands, outselling Fiat, Dacia, and Seat in the UK; Fiat and Seat in France; Seat in Italy; and Fiat in Spain. This growing variety of models offers buyers more options but also presents challenges in navigating the market, especially for online purchases.
How to Buy EVs Online Safely in Tunisia
Buying an electric vehicle (EV) online in Tunisia can be convenient, but it also comes with risks. To protect yourself from fraud and ensure a smooth transaction, follow these practical steps for a secure purchase.
Choosing a Trustworthy Platform
The foundation of a safe online EV purchase is selecting a reliable platform. Look for websites that prioritize security – check for a padlock icon in the browser and ensure the URL starts with "https://". These features help safeguard your personal and financial information.
Reputable platforms often display verified dealer badges, which indicate that the seller’s credentials, licensing, and business registration have been thoroughly vetted. Customer support is another key indicator of reliability. Trusted platforms offer multiple ways to get in touch, such as phone, email, and live chat.
Pay close attention to the details provided about the vehicle. Reliable listings include comprehensive specifications, high-quality photos from multiple angles, and clear descriptions of any damage or wear. A visible vehicle identification number (VIN) is also essential for verifying the car’s history.
Verifying Seller and Vehicle Information
Once you’ve found a platform you trust, it’s time to dig deeper into the seller and the vehicle. For dealerships, confirm their licensing with local authorities and read online reviews to gauge their reputation. Legitimate businesses usually provide a physical address and contact details you can independently verify.
If you’re dealing with a private seller, ask for identification and proof that they legally own the vehicle. Be wary of anyone who avoids meeting in person or pressures you to make a quick decision. Always request a vehicle history report from a trusted service like Carfax or AutoCheck. Compare the VIN on the report with the one on the car to ensure they match.
Make sure the vehicle title is clean and free of liens. To be extra cautious, consider a Personal Property Securities check to confirm there’s no outstanding debt tied to the car. And remember, if the price seems too good to be true compared to similar EVs in Tunisia, proceed with caution. Trust your instincts – if something feels off, don’t hesitate to walk away.
Secure Payment and Fraud Prevention
After confirming all the details, focus on secure payment methods. Options like bank transfers, verified cashier’s checks, or trusted escrow services are your safest bets. Escrow services are particularly helpful, as they hold your payment until you’ve received and inspected the vehicle. Just make sure to research the escrow service independently, rather than relying on recommendations from the seller.
Avoid any payment arrangements that seem unusual, such as overpayments or complicated installment plans. If you’re accepting checks, verify them directly with the issuing bank to ensure they’re legitimate.
Stay alert for warning signs in listings or communications. Be cautious of buyers or sellers who avoid video calls, refuse to meet in person, or insist on completing the transaction without proper inspection. Carefully review every contract, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about unclear terms. Protect your personal information – legitimate sellers won’t ask for excessive details until the deal is finalized.
Fraud can happen even with established businesses. In March 2023, two employees at a dealership were arrested for fraud and forgery, underscoring the importance of verifying every aspect of your transaction. A little extra diligence can go a long way in ensuring a safe and successful purchase.
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Delivery and Registration Process
Once you’ve purchased your EV, the next steps involve arranging delivery and completing the registration process. Knowing what to expect can make the experience much smoother.
Shipping and Import Methods
Getting your EV to Tunisia involves selecting the right shipping method and navigating customs procedures. You’ll primarily choose between Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) shipping and container shipping. RoRo is a cost-effective option where your car is driven onto the ship and secured for transport, but it leaves the vehicle exposed to weather during the journey. On the other hand, container shipping provides better protection by enclosing your vehicle in a sealed container, making it ideal for high-value EVs or when shipping personal belongings alongside the car.
The Port of Rades is the main entry point for vehicles imported into Tunisia. If you’re shipping from the United States, there are several route options to consider. For instance, ACL – Grimaldi Line offers services from Baltimore, Maryland, to Tunis, with an average transit time of 18 days. Sallaum Shipping Line provides routes from Jacksonville, Florida (using Miami as the loading port), with transit times of approximately 20 days.
Shipping costs from the U.S. to Tunisia typically range between $1,142 and $1,672. When factoring in fees, total expenses can reach $1,500–$5,000. Additional local charges add $1,500–$2,500, and import duties range from 0% to 100%, plus VAT.
You’ll need the following documents to complete the import process:
- Certificate of Title and Registration
- Bill of Lading
- Import Permit
- Commercial Invoice
- Insurance Documents
Keep in mind, cars older than 10 years are subject to extra taxes, and only vehicles less than 5 years old can be registered in Tunisia.
For a smoother customs clearance process, consider hiring a customs broker. The CIVIO (Contrôle d’Identification des Véhicules Importés d’Occasion) process will evaluate your EV’s specifications, category, and value to calculate duties and taxes.
Once your EV has arrived and cleared customs, the next step is registration and securing insurance.
Vehicle Registration and Insurance After Delivery
After customs clearance, registering your EV is essential to legally drive in Tunisia. The vehicle must be registered in the importer’s passport. If the car isn’t registered in your name, you’ll need a notarized procuration document translated into French.
Registration involves technical and identification checks, along with finalizing customs duties. SGS Tunisia handles the CIVIO process, ensuring your EV meets technical compliance and revenue requirements.
Tunisia offers tax incentives for EVs, including exemptions from VAT and customs duties, which can significantly lower costs.
For added convenience, platforms like EV24.africa provide end-to-end support for customs clearance, registration, and import taxes. They also offer port-to-port and door-to-door delivery options, allowing you to choose the service level that works best for your needs and budget.
"We assist with customs clearance, registration, and import taxes, ensuring your vehicle complies with local regulations." – EV24.africa
Before registration, you’ll need to secure insurance. Choose a policy that meets standard automotive insurance requirements and covers EV-specific aspects like battery and charging equipment.
From purchase to being road-ready, the entire process usually takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on shipping routes and customs processing times. Planning ahead and working with experienced service providers can help avoid delays and ensure compliance with all requirements efficiently.
EV Maintenance and Support in Tunisia
Once your EV is registered and ready to hit the road in Tunisia, keeping it in top shape is key to ensuring safe and efficient performance. While Tunisia’s EV infrastructure is growing, some areas still face challenges. Here’s how you can maintain your EV and navigate the available support options.
Local Service Centers and Repair Shops
Finding skilled EV technicians in Tunisia can be tricky, as the market is still developing. However, BYD Tunisia stands out as a reliable option, offering a full range of services for BYD electric vehicles. These include warranty coverage, routine maintenance, repairs, and genuine spare parts.
Charging infrastructure is also expanding steadily. As of May 27, 2025, Tunisia boasts 60 charging stations. Total Energies has introduced public charging stations in Tunis and plans to extend this network further. Meanwhile, the National Petroleum Distribution Company (Agil) and STEG are running a pilot program to install 10 charging stations in major cities.
Software Updates and Network Compatibility
Keeping your EV’s software up-to-date is essential for smooth performance and compatibility with Tunisia’s evolving EV infrastructure. Many modern EVs offer over-the-air (OTA) updates through cellular networks. Make sure your vehicle is compatible with local network conditions to avoid disruptions.
For charging, ensure your EV supports CCS (Combined Charging System) for greater compatibility with local stations. Many EVs come with built-in navigation systems to locate charging points, but downloading local charging apps can provide extra convenience, including payment options and real-time station availability . Regularly inspect charging cables and connectors for signs of wear to avoid issues.
Tunisia’s hot climate can also affect EV performance. Extreme heat can reduce range by up to 30%, and prolonged exposure to temperatures above 80°F (27°C) may harm battery health . To protect your battery, aim to keep its charge between 30–80%, use preconditioning features, park in shaded areas, and charge during cooler parts of the day . Additionally, check tire pressure frequently, as it directly impacts range, safety, and tire lifespan on Tunisia’s roads.
Conclusion
Tunisia’s electric vehicle (EV) market is steadily gaining traction, and with the right steps, buyers can take advantage of this growing opportunity. Since January 2022, the government’s full duty exemption on EVs has made them more affordable, while the authorization of 100% electric vehicle marketing since January 2020 has expanded the range of available models.
For those considering an online EV purchase, following a structured process is essential. Key steps include verifying the platform’s reliability, checking the seller’s credentials, and opting for secure payment methods like bank transfers or escrow services. Staying vigilant against scams is equally important. Additionally, understanding shipping procedures, import regulations, and insurance requirements can help avoid unexpected costs. It’s worth noting that while after-sales support for EVs in Tunisia is still developing, resources like EV24.africa can assist with customs clearance, registration, and navigating import taxes.
Given the limited public charging infrastructure, installing a home charger is a practical solution for EV owners in Tunisia. While EVs may come with higher upfront costs compared to traditional vehicles, government incentives, expanding infrastructure, and a growing support network are making them an increasingly practical choice.
Finally, trust your instincts during the buying process. If anything feels suspicious – whether it’s unclear paperwork or questionable negotiations – it’s better to walk away. Taking these careful steps ensures not only a secure purchase but also contributes to a more sustainable future for Tunisia’s transportation landscape.
FAQs
What are the safest ways to buy an electric vehicle online in Tunisia?
When buying an electric vehicle online in Tunisia, choosing reliable platforms that focus on security and customer support is crucial. One example is EV24.africa, a trusted marketplace featuring a variety of EVs. They also offer detailed logistics and responsive customer service to make the buying process as seamless as possible.
To ensure a safe purchase, always confirm the credibility of sellers and use secure payment options. Opt for platforms that provide clear vehicle details, upfront pricing, and delivery assurances. These precautions will help you confidently explore Tunisia’s expanding EV market.
How do government incentives in Tunisia make owning an EV more affordable?
Government programs in Tunisia are making electric vehicles (EVs) more affordable by offering financial incentives. Buyers can benefit from cash bonuses of 10,000 TND (around $3,200 USD) and reduced customs duties, which help lower the upfront cost of purchasing an EV. On top of that, exemptions from specific taxes and subsidies for charging infrastructure help cut down on long-term expenses.
These initiatives aim to make EVs a practical option for more people while promoting the shift toward cleaner transportation. For many Tunisians, these financial perks ease the burden of initial costs, making EV ownership a more appealing and cost-effective decision.
How can I safely buy an electric vehicle online in Tunisia?
To buy an electric vehicle (EV) online safely, start by verifying the seller’s reputation. Look for reviews, check their transaction history, and assess their online presence to ensure they’re reliable. Stick to trusted platforms known for secure transactions to minimize risks. Avoid cash payments – opt for secure options like credit cards or payment services that include buyer protection.
If possible, arrange to inspect the vehicle in person or hire a trusted mechanic to conduct a pre-purchase inspection. This step ensures the EV’s actual condition matches the listing. Lastly, carefully review the warranty and return policies to protect your purchase and avoid unexpected issues. These precautions can help make your online EV purchase safe and worry-free.
