Ethiopia Hosts Inaugural Electric Vehicle Expo to Promote Green Mobility
Ethiopia is hosting its first green mobility exhibition to showcase innovations in electric vehicles and renewable technologies. The event, attended by numerous Chinese companies, highlights the government’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions and reducing fossil fuel reliance. Over 100,000 EVs are currently operating in the country, with plans for significant growth in the coming years. Local companies report promising sales as interest in electric transport surges.
Ethiopia is currently hosting its inaugural green mobility exhibition to advance its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing sustainable transportation solutions. The Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition is taking place from November 22 to 25 at the Huajian International Light Industry Special Economic Zone in Addis Ababa, showcasing innovative electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy technologies.
During the event, Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime underscored the government’s dedication to fostering a climate-resilient economy through sustainable mobility practices. He noted the importance of leveraging Ethiopia’s rich renewable energy resources to decrease reliance on fossil fuels within the transport sector.
The exhibition has attracted numerous Chinese exhibitors, offering a platform for networking and market linkages among stakeholders in the green mobility sector. Li Xuan, the Ethiopian representative for the Chinese EV brand Neta Auto, remarked on the growing demand for electric vehicles following the government’s initiative to limit the importation of gasoline-powered cars, stating, “Many China-made EV brands are on sale in Ethiopia where the market for EVs booms after the government’s plan to ban importation of gasoline vehicles.”
Local companies like Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex, which assembles electric minibuses, reported promising sales figures, having sold 216 minibuses in under a year. Quality Control Manager Ermiyas Dersu mentioned the government’s preferential tax policies and financing options for EV importers that support the burgeoning market: “As part of its commitment to promoting electric mobility, the government of Ethiopia has allowed importation of EVs with tax preference while facilitating loans to importers.”
Additionally, electric bicycles and tricycles attracted considerable interest from attendees. Woda Vehicle Manufacturing PLC highlighted the efficiency of their electric tricycles, which can travel 80 to 100 kilometers per charge, at a significantly lower cost compared to traditional models. Marketing Officer Michael Mulugeta stated, “This electric tricycle is getting more and more popular in Ethiopia, especially in rural areas and small towns. We have sold more than 500 units in one year across the country.”
Currently, over 100,000 electric vehicles are in operation throughout Ethiopia, with projections to increase this number to 500,000 over the next decade. The government is actively working on expanding EV production and establishing public charging stations, providing incentives such as free land for investors involved in EV services.
Ethiopia’s initiative to host its first green mobility exhibition is part of a broader strategy to combat climate change and reduce carbon footprints through sustainable transportation. With abundant renewable energy resources, the country aims to transition from fossil fuels to electric vehicles (EVs) as part of a national effort to enhance environmental sustainability. The government’s recent prohibition on the import of gasoline or diesel vehicles further illustrates its commitment to advancing green technology and stimulating the local EV market. The exhibition not only promotes existing products but also serves as a hub for collaboration among various stakeholders in the industry, including international exhibitors and local manufacturers.
The Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition signifies a pivotal step for Ethiopia in promoting sustainable transport and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By showcasing advanced technologies in electric vehicles and facilitating partnerships between local and international stakeholders, the event embodies the country’s ambition to enhance green mobility. The government’s supportive policies, coupled with increasing consumer demand for electric alternatives, position Ethiopia as a burgeoning market for sustainable transportation solutions.
Original Source: english.news.cn
