Ethiopia's Bumpy Road to Electric Vehicles

Ethiopia's ambitious plan to phase out gas-powered private vehicles and transition to electric vehicles (EVs) has faced challenges since the ban was announced in February 2024. The government's move, aimed at reducing fuel imports and combating pollution, has encountered hurdles in infrastructure development and consumer adoption.


The lack of charging infrastructure and maintenance facilities has been a significant barrier to EV adoption in Ethiopia. As of 2024, there is only one public charging station in the entire country, located in the capital, Addis Ababa. This scarcity makes long-distance travel nearly impossible for EV drivers, and frequent power cuts exacerbate the problem. Additionally, there are only two specialized garages capable of servicing electric vehicles, and spare parts are difficult to come by.

Economic barriers, such as high EV prices and limited consumer awareness, have also hindered Ethiopia's EV transition. Even second-hand EVs cost over €32,000, and new models range from €35,000 to €100,000, making them unaffordable for most Ethiopians. Limited consumer awareness about EV maintenance and resale value also poses challenges.


To address these challenges, the Ethiopian government and private sector must collaborate to develop a sustainable and efficient EV ecosystem. This includes investing in charging infrastructure, capacity building for mechanics and consumers, encouraging local EV manufacturing, maintaining policy consistency and incentives, and facilitating public-private partnerships (PPPs).

International partnerships and investments can also play a pivotal role in supporting Ethiopia's EV transition and addressing its infrastructure gaps. Multinational cooperation, such as the Nigerian-Niger-Benin-Burkina Faso Power Interconnection Project and the Projet d’interconnexion électrique Cameroun- Tchad (composante Tchad), demonstrates the value of regional energy infrastructure development.

In conclusion, Ethiopia's ambitious plan to transition to electric vehicles faces significant challenges, but with strategic planning and collaboration between the government and private sector, the country can overcome these hurdles and achieve its EV targets. By investing in infrastructure, fostering local manufacturing, and leveraging international partnerships, Ethiopia can create a sustainable and efficient EV ecosystem, supporting its green economy goals.