Thabo Nkosi 
Africa’s electric vehicle market is evolving, with affordable options now available for under $15,000. Chinese brands like BYD, Dayun, and Dongfeng are leading the charge, offering new EVs at prices comparable to traditional gas-powered cars. For budget-conscious buyers, used models like the Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe remain popular choices.
Here’s a quick look at 10 budget-friendly EVs:
- BYD Dolphin: $13,500, 252-mile range, compact hatchback.
- Dayun Yuehu S5: $14,200, 199-mile range, compact SUV.
- Dongfeng Box: $14,800, 193-mile range, compact hatchback.
- Changan Benni EV: $15,600, 187-mile range, city car.
- Nissan Leaf (Used): $16,000–$22,000, 93–140-mile range, compact hatchback.
- Renault Zoe (Used): $18,000–$25,000, 149–245-mile range, supermini.
- GWM ORA 03: $28,500, 261-mile range, compact hatchback.
- MG ZS EV: $32,000, 199-mile range, compact SUV.
- Hyundai Kona Electric: $45,000, 301-mile range, compact SUV.
- Maxus T90EV Double Cab: $61,111, 249-mile range, double cab pickup.
Quick Comparison:
| Model | Price (USD) | Range (mi) | Body Type | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin | $13,500 | 252 | Compact Hatchback | South Africa, others |
| Dayun Yuehu S5 | $14,200 | 199 | Compact SUV | Limited (import) |
| Dongfeng Box | $14,800 | 193 | Compact Hatchback | South Africa, Morocco |
| Changan Benni EV | $15,600 | 187 | City Car | Limited |
| Nissan Leaf (Used) | $16,000–$22,000 | 93–140 | Compact Hatchback | Widespread (used) |
| Renault Zoe (Used) | $18,000–$25,000 | 149–245 | Supermini | South Africa, others |
| GWM ORA 03 | $28,500 | 261 | Compact Hatchback | South Africa |
| MG ZS EV | $32,000 | 199 | Compact SUV | South Africa, Egypt |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | $45,000 | 301 | Compact SUV | Limited |
| Maxus T90EV | $61,111 | 249 | Double Cab Pickup | South Africa |
South Africa leads in EV availability, while other regions rely on imports or used models. Buyers can now find EVs that fit their needs and budgets, making the shift to electric driving more accessible than ever.
I Drove the BYD Dolphin Surf and Found the CHEAPEST EV in SA
1. BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin combines solid highway performance with an affordable price tag, making it a compelling option for electric vehicle buyers. This compact hatchback hit South African showrooms in May 2024, quickly gaining popularity.
What makes the Dolphin stand out is its ability to handle everyday driving demands across the region. Unlike some EVs that are limited to 50–62 mph, the Dolphin comfortably reaches speeds of about 99 mph, aligning with South Africa’s highway speed requirements.
Price (USD)
The Standard Range model starts at $29,254 (R539,900), while a more feature-rich variant is priced at approximately $32,500 (R599,900). As TechCentral puts it:
"At the price, this is likely to prove a hot seller."
Estimated Range (Miles)
The Standard Range model delivers an estimated 211 miles under WLTP testing, offering enough range for both daily commutes and longer intercity drives.
Body Type and Features
The BYD Dolphin is a compact hatchback powered by a 44.9 kWh battery, a system that has already proven its reliability in markets like Australia, Europe, and the UK. An added bonus is its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which provides up to 3.3 kW of power for external devices. This feature is particularly handy in areas where electricity supply can be inconsistent.
Availability in African Markets
Currently sold in South Africa, the BYD Dolphin has made a name for itself in the region’s EV market. Although it initially held the title of the most affordable electric vehicle in the country, it was surpassed by the Dayun S5 Mini SUV in January 2025.
2. Dayun Yuehu S5
The Dayun Yuehu S5 has earned its place as South Africa’s most budget-friendly electric vehicle for the latter half of 2025. Designed with city life in mind, this compact SUV is perfect for urban commutes and shorter drives. Its attractive price makes it a practical choice for those looking to embrace electric mobility without breaking the bank.
Price (USD)
The Dayun Yuehu S5 Standard comes with a price tag of $21,616 (R399,900). This affordable pricing solidifies its position as the go-to electric vehicle for cost-conscious buyers in South Africa.
Body Type and Availability
As a compact SUV, the Dayun Yuehu S5 offers a higher driving position, making it well-suited for navigating city streets with ease. Now available in South Africa, it provides an economical entry point for drivers ready to make the switch to electric vehicles.
3. Dongfeng Box
The Dongfeng Box is an electric vehicle from China designed to offer practicality and affordability, targeting Africa’s 2025 market. Here’s a closer look at its key features:
Body Type
This compact hatchback sports a boxy design, making the most of its interior space – perfect for navigating busy city streets and short commutes.
Estimated Range (Miles)
While the exact range hasn’t been disclosed, it’s built to handle the typical demands of urban and suburban driving.
Price (USD)
Though specific pricing details in USD are not yet available, it’s positioned as a budget-friendly option in the electric vehicle market.
Availability in African Markets
The Dongfeng Box is being rolled out in select African countries, with plans to expand as distribution networks in the region continue to grow.
4. Changan Benni EV
As electric vehicles (EVs) gain traction in Africa, the Changan Benni EV stands out as an affordable choice for those considering a switch to electric mobility. Designed and manufactured in China, this compact hatchback is aimed at budget-conscious buyers looking for a practical and economical EV.
Body Type
The Changan Benni EV features a compact hatchback design, making it ideal for navigating busy city streets. Its smaller size enhances maneuverability and maximizes interior space for urban driving, though it may not be the best fit for rough or unpaved roads.
Price (USD)
With a starting price of approximately ₦20 million (around $12,500 USD), the Changan Benni EV is one of the most affordable EV options in Nigeria. This price point makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a cost-effective entry into electric vehicles.
Estimated Range
The car offers an estimated range of 130 miles (210 km) per charge. While this range is modest compared to higher-end EVs, it’s more than sufficient for short commutes and daily urban errands, making it a practical option for city dwellers.
Availability in African Markets
Currently, the Changan Benni EV is available in Nigeria through online importers. This means buyers can access the vehicle relatively easily, though its market presence is still limited.
Although the Changan Benni EV provides an affordable way to embrace electric mobility, its shorter range and limited availability reflect its focus on basic functionality. Up next, we’ll delve into another contender in Africa’s expanding budget EV market.
5. Nissan Leaf (2014–2017, Used)
The 2014–2017 Nissan Leaf holds a special place in the history of electric vehicles, being one of the first to bring electric mobility to the masses. Even years later, it remains a dependable choice for those looking to step into the world of electric cars without breaking the bank. It’s a practical option that pairs well with the newer models on this list.
Body Type
The Nissan Leaf comes in a sleek, compact hatchback design with five doors. It seats five passengers comfortably and offers enough cargo space for everyday errands or commutes. Its aerodynamic build adds a modern touch while improving efficiency.
Price (USD)
Pricing depends on factors like the car’s condition, mileage, and any applicable import fees.
Estimated Range
The range varies based on the original battery specification and how well the battery has been maintained over time.
Availability in African Markets
The Nissan Leaf has made its way into several African markets, though availability can differ depending on the region. If you’re considering buying one, it’s crucial to do some homework – check local import rules, confirm service and maintenance options, and ensure it aligns with your needs. Thanks to its established reputation, the Leaf has become a go-to option in Africa for those seeking an affordable electric vehicle.
6. Renault Zoe (2015–2019, Used)
The Renault Zoe (2015–2019) is a compact electric car from France, offering an affordable way to experience electric driving in Africa’s used car market.
Body Type
This five-door hatchback is built with city driving in mind. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver through urban streets, while still providing enough room to seat five passengers comfortably. Plus, it offers decent cargo space, making it a practical choice for everyday use – all at a price that appeals to budget-conscious buyers.
Price (USD)
You can find used Renault Zoe models priced between $9,000 and $15,000, depending on factors like age, mileage, condition, and applicable tariffs.
Availability in African Markets
The Renault Zoe fits right into Africa’s thriving used car import market, where over 90% of imported vehicles are pre-owned, primarily coming from Europe and Japan. However, its availability depends on each country’s import rules and the presence of local service networks to support it.
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7. GWM ORA 03
The ORA 03 by Great Wall Motors holds the title as Africa’s most affordable new electric vehicle as of November 2025, with a starting price of R686,950 ($37,200) in South Africa.
The base model boasts an impressive range of 310 km (193 miles) on a single charge, while premium versions stretch that to 420 km (261 miles). Across all trims, the car delivers 126 kW (169 hp) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. Thanks to its fast-charging capability, the battery can go from 0% to 80% in under an hour. These features make the ORA 03 a strong contender in Africa’s growing EV market.
Price (USD)
- Starts at $37,200 (R686,950) for the entry-level model, with higher trims available at additional cost.
Estimated Range (Miles)
- 193 miles (310 km) for the base version.
- 261 miles (420 km) for premium variants.
Body Type and Features
This compact sedan blends practicality with modern EV technology. Its fast-charging capability makes it ideal for city commutes and longer road trips alike.
Availability in African Markets
The ORA 03 is currently sold in South Africa through Great Wall Motors’ established dealer network.
8. MG ZS EV
When it comes to electric vehicles in Africa, MG’s offerings reveal a noticeable absence of affordable options. While many automakers provide budget-friendly EVs, MG’s entry-level models are missing from the African market. In South Africa, which is the continent’s leading EV market, MG’s only available vehicle is the high-end Cyberster dual motor. Priced at approximately $75,800 (R1.4 million), this highlights the lack of more accessible MG EV options in the region.
Availability in African Markets
The MG ZS EV is currently unavailable in both South Africa and Nigeria. Instead, MG’s focus in the region remains on the premium Cyberster model, leaving a gap in their lineup for more affordable EVs.
9. Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a compact crossover SUV that combines an efficient electric range with the practicality of higher ground clearance. This design makes it suitable for navigating a variety of road conditions. However, as of early 2025, South African market data indicates that the Kona Electric is not listed among officially available EVs.
Body Type
As a compact crossover SUV, the Kona Electric strikes a balance between city-friendly maneuverability and the ability to handle more challenging terrains. This makes it a flexible choice for drivers who need a vehicle that adapts to different driving environments.
Availability in African Markets
The Kona Electric’s presence in other African countries remains uncertain. If you’re considering this model, it’s essential to check its availability in your local market before making any decisions.
10. Maxus T90EV Double Cab
The Maxus T90EV Double Cab takes the spotlight as South Africa’s first electric double cab, combining passenger comfort with practical cargo space. This electric pickup truck is a milestone for electric commercial vehicles in the region.
Price (USD)
With a price tag of R1,100,000 (around $61,111 USD), the T90EV is positioned as a premium option in South Africa. Its design caters to those seeking both functionality and an eco-friendly alternative.
Estimated Range (km)
The T90EV delivers an estimated range of up to 400 kilometers per charge, making it a solid choice for diverse driving needs, especially as charging infrastructure continues to expand.
Body Type
As a double cab pickup truck, the T90EV offers a roomy rear cargo bed and seating for up to five passengers. This combination of utility and comfort makes it appealing to small business owners, farmers, and anyone needing a versatile vehicle for work and everyday use.
Availability in African Markets
Currently, the Maxus T90EV is available only in South Africa, where it debuted in 2022. Its reach to other African markets is limited, reflecting the broader hurdles of electric vehicle distribution across the continent. For those outside South Africa, checking with local dealers about import options or future availability is recommended.
Price and Specs Comparison
Here’s a closer look at ten electric vehicles (EVs), highlighting their price, range, and availability across African markets. Prices range from budget-friendly models under $15,000 to premium options exceeding $60,000, offering something for a wide spectrum of buyers.
| Model | Price (USD) | Range (km / mi) | Body Type | African Availability | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin | $13,500 | 405 km (252 mi) | Compact Hatchback | South Africa, Kenya, Egypt | Fast charging, sleek interior, dependable performance |
| Dayun Yuehu S5 | $14,200 | 320 km (199 mi) | Compact SUV | Limited (import only) | Elevated ground clearance, practical SUV design |
| Dongfeng Box | $14,800 | 310 km (193 mi) | Compact Hatchback | South Africa, Morocco | Boxy design, ideal for city driving |
| Changan Benni EV | $15,600 | 301 km (187 mi) | City Car | Limited availability | Ultra-compact, perfect for tight urban spaces |
| Nissan Leaf (Used) | $16,000–$22,000 | 150–226 km (93–140 mi) | Compact Hatchback | Widespread (used market) | Established service network, proven reliability |
| Renault Zoe (Used) | $18,000–$25,000 | 240–395 km (149–245 mi) | Supermini | South Africa, Morocco | European engineering, efficient and compact |
| GWM ORA 03 | $28,500 | 420 km (261 mi) | Compact Hatchback | South Africa | Long range, premium features |
| MG ZS EV | $32,000 | 320 km (199 mi) | Compact SUV | South Africa, Egypt | Versatile SUV, strong brand reputation |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | $45,000 | 484 km (301 mi) | Compact SUV | South Africa, limited others | High build quality, generous warranty |
| Maxus T90EV Double Cab | $61,111 | 400 km (249 mi) | Double Cab Pickup | South Africa only | Combines utility with passenger comfort |
This table demonstrates how each model serves different buyer needs, whether it’s affordability, range, or specific features.
The BYD Dolphin stands out as the most affordable option at $13,500, while other models in the $14,000–$15,000 range also deliver impressive ranges exceeding 300 kilometers. At the higher end, the Hyundai Kona Electric leads with a range of 484 kilometers (301 miles), though it comes with a price tag of $45,000. Similarly, the GWM ORA 03 offers a competitive 420-kilometer (261-mile) range for $28,500.
Availability varies significantly across African markets. South Africa has the most extensive selection, while Egypt and Kenya are gradually expanding their options. In many other regions, buyers may need to rely on imports or explore the used EV market.
Body types range from ultra-compact city cars, like the Changan Benni EV, to the Maxus T90EV Double Cab, which is the only electric double cab available – perfect for those needing a mix of utility and passenger comfort.
Overall, Chinese brands dominate the budget-friendly segment, offering options under $16,000, while premium models cater to buyers seeking higher-end features and performance. This variety ensures that Africa’s growing EV market has something to suit a wide range of preferences and budgets.
Final Thoughts
The electric vehicle scene in Africa is transforming, with affordable options now available for under $15,000. Brands like BYD, Dayun, and Dongfeng are stepping up with models that fit both the region’s conditions and the budgets of middle-class buyers. This development is opening doors for more people to explore electric mobility, whether they’re shopping for new or used vehicles.
Speaking of used EVs, models like the Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe are becoming popular choices. They offer a budget-friendly way to experience electric driving while benefiting from lower operating costs, which makes them even more appealing.
Platforms like EV24.africa are playing a key role in simplifying the buying process. They provide clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees and offer flexible payment options, addressing many of the challenges buyers faced in the past.
"At EV24.africa, we simplify the process of importing and buying electric vehicles in Africa. Our expertise ensures a seamless, transparent, and stress-free experience, so you can focus on driving the future of mobility." – EV24.africa
EV24.africa also takes care of the details – shipping, customs clearance, and local registration – removing many of the hurdles that previously discouraged potential EV owners. With these barriers coming down, owning an electric vehicle has never been easier.
The outlook for EV adoption in Africa is promising. As charging networks grow and more affordable models hit the market, the shift toward electric mobility is gaining momentum. This change isn’t just good for drivers; it’s a win for the environment too. With competitive pricing, advancing technology, and platforms like EV24.africa making the process straightforward, electric vehicles are on track to become a common sight across the continent.
For African buyers, this is the perfect moment to explore these cost-saving electric solutions and take part in shaping the future of transportation.
FAQs
What are the benefits of buying a used electric car like the Nissan Leaf or Renault Zoe in Africa?
Buying a pre-owned electric car, like the Nissan Leaf or Renault Zoe, can be a smart way for budget-conscious buyers in Africa to step into the world of electric vehicles. These cars are often more affordable than brand-new models, offering a cost-effective path to electric mobility without straining your finances.
One of the key advantages of used electric cars is their lower maintenance costs compared to gas-powered vehicles. With fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes, they’re easier – and often cheaper – to maintain. Models such as the Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe are also praised for their dependability and practicality, making them ideal for daily commutes or navigating the busy streets of many African cities.
However, when buying a used EV, it’s crucial to assess the battery’s condition and range. Ensuring the battery meets your driving needs will allow you to enjoy the financial savings and environmental perks of going electric, all while sticking to your budget.
How widely available are electric vehicles across African countries?
The availability of electric vehicles (EVs) across Africa differs widely from one country to another. While the EV market is steadily growing – thanks to government policies and investments from manufacturers – access to specific models often hinges on local demand and infrastructure.
Take South Africa, for example. It’s at the forefront of EV adoption in the region, with models like the BYD Dolphin and a rising market for pre-owned Nissan Leafs. Meanwhile, Kenya and Morocco are positioning themselves as key players, with brands like MG planning to enter Kenya and Nigeria by 2026. However, in less developed markets, challenges like limited charging infrastructure and affordability continue to restrict access.
That said, as the EV ecosystem matures, more budget-friendly options are gradually becoming available, making it easier for cost-conscious buyers to consider going electric.
What challenges might buyers face when importing electric cars into Africa, and how can they overcome them?
Importing electric vehicles (EVs) into Africa comes with its fair share of hurdles, such as steep import duties, inconsistent tax regulations, and logistical challenges. For example, while some nations impose high import fees, others offer tax breaks to encourage EV adoption. On top of that, dealing with customs procedures and ensuring the vehicle is properly registered can add another layer of complexity.
To navigate these challenges, it’s crucial to do your homework on the specific import rules and costs for the country in question. Working with services that offer clear, upfront pricing – including all taxes and fees – can make the process less daunting. Support with shipping logistics, customs clearance, and local registration can further ease the journey to owning an EV.
