Thabo Nkosi 
Thinking about switching to an electric car? Here’s why 2025 is the perfect year to make the move in Africa:
- Lower Costs: EV battery prices have dropped drastically, making electric cars as affordable as gas-powered ones. By 2025, owning an EV in Africa could cost 30% less than a traditional car, with savings of up to $10,000 over two years.
- Better Charging Infrastructure: Fast-charging networks are expanding rapidly across Africa, with countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Rwanda leading the way. Solar-powered, off-grid charging stations are also on the rise.
- EVs Built for African Roads: New models are designed to handle Africa’s rough terrain and hot climate, with reinforced suspensions, higher ground clearance, and advanced cooling systems.
- Government Support: Policies like tax breaks, reduced import duties, and infrastructure investments are making EVs more accessible. Countries like Rwanda and Kenya are leading with ambitious EV targets and incentives.
- Clean Energy Integration: Renewable energy, like solar and hydropower, is powering EVs, reducing emissions, and cutting fuel costs by up to 60%.
Switching to an EV in 2025 means saving money, reducing pollution, and benefiting from better infrastructure and government support. Whether you’re in Nairobi, Johannesburg, or Kigali, the shift to electric mobility is more practical and affordable than ever.
Burkina Faso unveils first locally produced electric vehicle model
1. Lower Battery Costs Make EVs More Affordable
The high upfront cost of electric vehicles (EVs) has long been a hurdle for their adoption in Africa. But 2025 marks a turning point, as battery prices drop significantly, making EVs competitive with traditional gas-powered cars. Let’s dive into the numbers and trends driving this shift.
Battery costs have plummeted from $1,100 per kWh in 2010 to around $130 per kWh in 2025, with projections suggesting $111 per kWh by the end of the year and $80 per kWh by 2026. This isn’t just a slow decline – prices are falling faster than ever.
"A battery pack price of $100 per kilowatt-hour is considered the crucial point at which EVs become price competitive with gas-powered cars, a shift that is key to mainstream EV adoption."
- SatKartar Khalsa, Senior Initiative Director, Climate Imperative Foundation
This critical $100 per kWh threshold is now within reach, transforming the economics of EV ownership for African buyers. For example, in Ghana, owning an EV costs about 30% less than a gas-powered car, with fuel and maintenance savings ranging from 40% to 65%. Over two years, EV owners can save more than $10,000, thanks to lower upfront costs and reduced operating expenses.
So, what’s driving these cost reductions? Several factors are at play:
- Technological advancements: Innovations like higher energy density and cell-to-pack designs are making batteries more efficient and cheaper to manufacture.
- Lower material costs: The prices of key metals like lithium and cobalt have dropped, further reducing battery expenses.
- Economies of scale: Increased production volumes and growing competition among manufacturers are cutting costs.
Industry experts are optimistic about these developments:
"We’re seeing multiple new battery products that have been launched that feature about 30% higher energy density and lower cost."
- Nikhil Bhandari, co-head of Goldman Sachs Research’s Asia-Pacific Natural Resources and Clean Energy Research
Emerging battery technologies are also playing a role. Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, known for their affordability and safety, are gaining popularity. Meanwhile, solid-state batteries, with energy densities of 300–500 Wh/kg compared to the current 270 Wh/kg of lithium-ion batteries, are on the horizon. Major investments are fueling this progress – Stellantis and CATL announced a $4.3 billion joint venture in December 2024 to build an LFP battery plant in Spain, set to start production in 2026.
For African consumers, these advancements mean EVs are becoming more than just an environmentally conscious choice – they’re also a financially smart one. As battery prices approach the $100 per kWh milestone, EVs are poised to compete with gasoline cars on price, even without subsidies. Combined with lower operating costs and an expanding variety of models, 2025 could be the year EVs truly take off across the continent.
2. Fast-Charging Networks Expand Across Africa
Range anxiety has long been a barrier to adopting electric vehicles (EVs) in Africa. But as we move into 2025, the story is changing. Fast-charging networks are growing rapidly across the continent, making EVs more practical for both daily commutes and long trips. Paired with falling battery costs, these reliable charging options are paving the way for broader EV adoption.
Infrastructure Availability
The numbers tell the story of growth. The EV charging market in the Middle East and Africa was valued at around $162.5 million in 2024 and is expected to hit nearly $380.7 million by 2029, growing at an annual rate of 18.56%. This isn’t just theoretical – real charging stations are being installed and used by drivers today.
South Africa is leading the way in Sub-Saharan Africa, with about 400 public charging stations by the end of 2024. Companies like GridCars have rolled out around 100 fast and rapid charging stations nationwide. Looking ahead, South Africa’s EV charging market is projected to climb to $1.01 billion by 2029.
Kenya is also making big moves. Kenya Power plans to install 45 charging stations across six counties – Nairobi, Nyeri, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Taita-Teveta – within the next year. By 2030, the country aims to have 10,000 charging stations. New building codes now require EV charging outlets in parking spaces, ensuring infrastructure grows alongside urban development.
Rwanda is speeding up its efforts as well. The country has identified over 224 potential sites for EV charging infrastructure. As of August 2024, Rwanda had 24 public charging stations for vehicles, 4 direct chargers for motorcycles, and 49 combined charging and battery-swapping stations. Kabisa’s launch of ultra-fast charging hubs in Rwanda is another step forward in advancing EV technology.
In North Africa, Egypt is making strides with an estimated 7,000 EVs on the road and about 238 charging stations installed. Infinity EV is at the forefront of building out the country’s infrastructure.
"People want to buy EVs, but they don’t have the confidence when they consider the limited charging stations available, and especially if they want to travel upcountry, it becomes even more difficult."
- Srinivas Cheruvu, Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Rwanda
This quote highlights just how critical these expanding networks are for building consumer confidence in EVs.
Environmental and Energy Sustainability
One of the most exciting aspects of Africa’s charging network expansion is its focus on renewable energy. In late 2024, CHARGE unveiled South Africa’s first off-grid, solar-powered charging station in Wolmaransstad. This station shows that charging infrastructure can be both sustainable and independent of traditional power grids, especially in solar-rich regions.
By integrating solar power with EV chargers, these networks bring clean energy to electric vehicles while reducing reliance on conventional grids. This is particularly valuable in areas where grid connectivity is limited or unreliable.
The benefits extend beyond private vehicles. In Kenya, BasiGo is introducing electric buses to cut urban pollution and lower transport costs. Similarly, Uber has launched its Electric Boda service, aiming to deploy 3,000 electric bikes in just six months. These efforts not only reduce emissions but also increase demand for charging infrastructure, driving further growth in the sector.
The rapid expansion of fast-charging networks is laying the groundwork for Africa’s EV future. With governments recognizing the economic advantages of EV adoption and both public and private sectors stepping up investments, the continent is moving closer to a widespread electric mobility transformation.
3. EV Models Built for African Roads and Climate
By 2025, electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are focusing on creating models that can handle Africa’s rugged terrain and extreme climates. This shift ensures that African drivers experience both reliable performance and durability.
Built for Africa’s Roads
African roads, with their challenging conditions, demand vehicles that are tougher than the standard EVs designed for smoother European or American environments. Take Tanzania, for instance, where uneven and unpaved roads highlight why traditional EVs often fall short. To address this, manufacturers are adopting a process known as "tropicalization." This approach involves tweaking battery chemistry, reinforcing suspensions, and increasing ground clearance to better suit the local landscape and climate.
Drivers are now gravitating toward EVs with higher ground clearance to tackle rough terrain. In response, manufacturers are upgrading chassis designs to withstand the wear and tear of less-than-ideal roads. Modern EVs also come equipped with strengthened suspensions and advanced cooling systems, which are crucial for handling both bumpy roads and high temperatures. For example, when temperatures exceed 95°F (35°C), EV batteries can lose up to 15% of their range due to heat sensitivity. Advanced thermal management systems are now a must, ensuring vehicles maintain performance while keeping costs manageable for African consumers.
Affordable Solutions for Local Markets
In South Africa, the 2025 EV market showcases how manufacturers are balancing affordability with features tailored to local needs. Brands like Dayun Yuehu and BYD are offering competitively priced models equipped with advanced thermal venting and designs optimized for African conditions. These adjustments make EVs more accessible without compromising quality.
Testing in extreme environments, such as the heat of the UAE, further proves the reliability of these systems under conditions similar to Africa’s. Jonathan Pollack, Managing Director for emerging brands at Al Futtaim Group, emphasizes this:
"The reason that it’s important to test the BYD products within the region, and particularly within these specific conditions, is, of course, because it’s absolutely real world. And that real world is quite extreme when compared to the majority of the global environments."
Local production is also helping reduce costs. Companies like EVM Africa assemble electric tractors and other vehicles on the continent, while Roam focuses on electric motorcycles and buses designed specifically for African markets. These efforts not only make EVs more affordable but also contribute to a greener future.
Sustainability in Action
The climate-specific adaptations in 2025 EVs are doing more than just improving performance – they’re also promoting environmental sustainability. Brands like BMW have conducted extensive hot-weather testing in South Africa, while Rolls Royce tested its first fully electric model, the Spectre, over 2 million kilometers in the region’s intense summer heat.
These enhanced thermal systems extend battery life and reduce environmental impact, offering long-term benefits for both consumers and the planet.
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4. Government Policies Support EV Adoption
Governments across Africa are rolling out initiatives in 2025 to make electric vehicles (EVs) more affordable and accessible. These efforts range from financial incentives to infrastructure projects, creating an environment that encourages EV adoption throughout the continent.
Policy Support and Incentives
As of early 2025, over 12 African nations have adopted national EV policies. These policies offer a variety of financial incentives aimed at both consumers and manufacturers.
Rwanda stands out with one of the most comprehensive packages, eliminating VAT, import duties, and excise taxes on electric vehicles, spare parts, batteries, and charging equipment.
In South Africa, new manufacturing incentives were introduced in March 2025. These include a 150% tax deduction on investments in electric and hydrogen-powered vehicle production, effective from March 1, 2026, through March 1, 2036.
"To encourage production of EVs in South Africa, the government will introduce an investment allowance for new investments, beginning 1 March 2026." – Enoch Godongwana, South Africa’s Finance Minister
Kenya has set a target for 5% of new vehicle registrations to be electric by 2025. To meet this goal, the government has zero-rated electric buses and bicycles, while also waiving excise duties on imported and locally assembled electric motorcycles. Tunisia is aiming even higher, with plans to deploy 50,000 electric cars by 2025, alongside reduced customs duties on EV charging equipment and VAT exemptions.
Ghana leads the continent with approximately 17,000 EVs already in use, driven by duty waivers and the popularity of electric two- and three-wheelers. Meanwhile, Angola has reduced import taxes on EVs until 2032, resulting in 2,000 EV imports in 2024 alone.
These fiscal policies are being matched by public investments in charging infrastructure, ensuring that the shift to EVs is both practical and sustainable.
Infrastructure Availability
Governments are accelerating investments in charging infrastructure, a critical factor in supporting EV adoption. These efforts are paving the way for a robust network of fast-charging stations across the continent.
In Kenya, Kenya Power has been investing in charging stations over the past three years. Additionally, the National Building Code now requires that 5% of commercial parking spaces be designated for EV charging. The country has also launched Africa’s first hybrid EV battery laboratory in Nairobi, which offers services like battery testing, analysis, and reconditioning.
South Africa is also making strides, with Zero Carbon Charge planning to install 120 off-grid EV charging stations along major highways. Morocco, on the other hand, already has more than 400 charging stations and a booming EV export industry.
Namibia is taking a regulatory approach to infrastructure. In April 2025, the Electricity Control Board (ECB) began implementing its Electric Vehicles’ Charging Infrastructure Regulatory Framework, which sets standards for charging station installations.
"In the new financial year starting in April 2025, the ECB will launch the Framework Implementation Plan. This will begin with the adoption of standards in partnership with the Namibia Standards Institute (NSI), followed by a consumer education campaign to help the public understand the Framework and its implications." – Robert Kahimise, ECB CEO
Environmental and Energy Sustainability
These policies not only encourage EV adoption but also align with broader environmental goals. By integrating renewable energy initiatives, countries are positioning EVs as central to their clean energy strategies.
Ethiopia has taken a bold step by banning the import of petrol and diesel vehicles as of January 2024. The country also provides tax incentives for electric alternatives, leveraging its abundant hydropower resources to reduce emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
The impact of these measures is already visible. In 2024, electric car sales across Africa more than doubled, reaching nearly 11,000 units. Globally, emerging markets in regions like Africa, Asia, and Latin America saw EV sales grow by over 60% year-on-year, with market share climbing from 2.5% to 4%.
5. Renewable Energy Powers Clean Transportation
Africa is laying the groundwork for a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future, with renewable energy driving the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by 2025. By tapping into its abundant natural resources, the continent is generating clean electricity to fuel EVs, offering a greener and more cost-efficient way to get around.
Environmental and Energy Sustainability
Pairing renewable energy with electric vehicles is already having a noticeable impact on Africa’s environment. Since EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, they significantly improve air quality, especially in urban areas where pollution is a major concern.
Back in 2015, transport-related particulate matter and ozone were linked to nearly 4,500 deaths in Sub-Saharan Africa. Transitioning to electric vehicles powered by clean energy presents a clear opportunity to tackle this public health issue while building a more sustainable transport system.
"Electric vehicles would support the growth of domestic renewable energy sources – like hydro and geothermal – which many countries have in abundance."
– Rob De Jong, Head of the Sustainable Mobility Unit at UNEP
Ethiopia is leading by example, using its hydropower resources to fuel its EV transition. The result? A transportation system that relies heavily on renewable energy.
"EVs reduce greenhouse gases, lower fuel import costs, and decrease harmful air pollutants."
– Yizengaw Yitayih, Ethiopian Ministry of Transport and Logistics Senior Climate Change Expert
Even in countries where electricity grids still partially depend on fossil fuels, switching to EVs can reduce emissions right away. Nations like Ethiopia, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Namibia are seeing the most significant environmental benefits, thanks to their expanding renewable energy infrastructure.
Infrastructure Availability
The rapid growth of renewable energy infrastructure across Africa is paving the way for reliable EV charging networks. Solar power projects, in particular, are proving to be a game-changer in areas where grid stability can be an issue.
Take Nairobi, for instance. CrossBoundary Energy has partnered with Ampersand to develop a solar-powered charging station project, showcasing how distributed renewable systems can seamlessly support electric transportation.
The future of renewables in Africa looks bright. By 2035, renewable sources are expected to make up 65% of installed electricity capacity, climbing to around 95% by 2050. Solar is projected to dominate with 70% of this capacity, followed by wind at 20% and hydro at 10%. Morocco is also emerging as a leader in this space, with Total Eren launching a $10.6 billion green-hydrogen and green-ammonia production plant, set to begin operations in 2027. This kind of investment not only supports local EV adoption but also positions Africa as a key player in global clean energy exports.
The integration of renewable energy with EV infrastructure is setting the stage for 2025 to be a landmark year in Africa’s electric mobility journey.
Cost-effectiveness
The benefits of renewable-powered EV systems go beyond the environment – they’re also easier on the wallet. EVs are simply more energy-efficient than traditional combustion engines.
In Kenya, for example, a driver using an electric "boda boda" (motorbike taxi) reported slashing fuel and maintenance costs by 60% after just six months. This kind of savings is particularly appealing in regions where fuel prices have been skyrocketing. In Nigeria, fuel costs shot up by over 215% between July 2022 and July 2023, and by a staggering 360% from July 2023 to October 2024.
Beyond individual savings, the development of renewable energy infrastructure for e-mobility is creating jobs and spurring economic growth. South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Investment Plan, launched in November 2022, is a prime example. Backed by $8.5 billion in funding from the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States, this five-year strategy focuses on modernizing the electricity sector, promoting new energy vehicles, and advancing green hydrogen projects. These initiatives are not only supporting clean transportation but also building local expertise and manufacturing capacity.
Conclusion
The year 2025 marks a turning point for Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) journey, driven by five key factors. First, falling battery costs are making EVs more affordable for everyday drivers. Second, the expansion of fast-charging networks is easing range anxiety, especially in major cities and along highways. Third, manufacturers are now designing EVs tailored to African conditions – vehicles that can handle everything from dusty rural roads to extreme heat. These advancements not only reduce costs but also improve reliability and make EVs more practical for local needs.
Government support is another major driver. Policies like Zimbabwe’s reduced import duties and South Africa’s $54.27 million investment in local production are making EVs more accessible. At the same time, the continent’s renewable energy boom ensures that EVs can run on clean, solar-powered electricity, with more charging stations powered by the sun.
"Africa’s future isn’t tied to internal combustion engines. We’re building a mobility ecosystem that’s green, inclusive, and ours." – Sally Njogu, Project Manager, Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator
Local manufacturing is also playing a crucial role. Kenya’s EV market is growing by 24% annually, while in Kigali, over 1,000 Ampersand electric motorcycles are cutting fuel costs by 40%. Companies like Epurerides and MojaEV are boosting regional production capacity, further accelerating adoption.
Switching to EVs offers more than just cleaner air and reduced fuel dependence. Owners benefit from significant savings on fuel and maintenance, while communities gain from the creation of green jobs in manufacturing, charging infrastructure, and maintenance. On a larger scale, the climate benefits are undeniable. For example, ITAOUA‘s initiative to electrify 20% of Burkina Faso’s motorcycle fleet by 2027 could prevent over 150,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually.
Whether you’re considering an electric motorcycle for your daily commute, a sedan for family trips, or a commercial EV for your business, 2025 presents unparalleled opportunities to make the switch. Platforms like EV24.africa make it easier than ever to find the right vehicle. They offer a wide selection of new and used EVs from leading brands, along with financing options and delivery services across all 54 African countries. With transparent pricing, detailed specs, and expert advice, the path to electric mobility is clear.
The transition to electric vehicles is no longer a distant dream – 2025 is the year to embrace it.
FAQs
How will expanding fast-charging networks in Africa make owning an electric vehicle more convenient by 2025?
By 2025, the development of fast-charging networks across Africa is set to transform the experience of owning an electric vehicle (EV). With a greater number of fast-charging stations, charging times will shrink dramatically – think about the time it takes to grab a coffee or a quick snack. This improvement will make long-distance travel more practical and ease range anxiety, the common worry about running out of battery power.
These fast-charging hubs won’t just benefit individual drivers; they’ll also be a game-changer for commercial fleets. Businesses will find EVs a more realistic and efficient option as charging becomes quicker and more accessible. As this infrastructure continues to grow, it’s likely to encourage even more people to make the switch to EVs, paving the way for cleaner and greener transportation across the continent.
What government incentives are available in African countries to encourage switching to electric vehicles in 2025?
EV Incentives Across Africa in 2025
By 2025, several African nations are rolling out government-backed initiatives to make electric vehicles (EVs) more affordable and accessible. South Africa, for instance, is offering a 150% tax deduction on investments in EV and hydrogen vehicle production. On top of that, the government is committing $54.3 million to ramp up local EV manufacturing and battery production.
Kenya is taking a different approach by eliminating import duties on EVs, significantly lowering costs for consumers. Across the continent, many other countries are introducing measures like reduced import taxes and VAT exemptions to encourage EV adoption.
These efforts highlight a strong push toward sustainable transportation, aiming to make EVs a more realistic option for people throughout Africa by 2025.
How are electric vehicles being designed to suit Africa’s roads and climate?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are being specially crafted to tackle the distinct challenges posed by Africa’s roads and climate. Manufacturers are designing rugged models with improved off-road capabilities to navigate the rough, unpaved terrains found in many parts of the continent. These vehicles are also being outfitted with features to endure high temperatures and dusty conditions, ensuring they perform reliably even in harsh environments.
Some EVs are specifically designed with rural areas in mind, focusing on practicality and durability. This localized approach not only makes EVs a greener option but also ensures they cater to the everyday needs of African drivers, making the shift to electric mobility practical and accessible.
