Ethiopia Launches Green Mobility Expo to Promote Electric Vehicles and Sustainability
Ethiopia hosted its first green mobility exhibition, Ethio-Green Mobility 2024, from November 22-25, 2024, in Addis Ababa. The event highlighted the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting electric vehicles (EVs) through innovative technologies. Local and international exhibitors showcased a variety of EVs, with a strong emphasis on building a sustainable future for transportation in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia proudly hosted its inaugural green mobility exhibition, Ethio-Green Mobility 2024, from November 22 to November 25, 2024, at the Huajian International Light Industry Special Economic Zone in Addis Ababa. This significant event aimed to promote sustainable transportation solutions and the utilization of renewable energy technologies, featuring advanced electric vehicles (EVs) and other innovations. The Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, emphasized the government’s dedication to building a climate-resilient economy and reducing reliance on nonrenewable energy sources.
The expo attracted numerous exhibitors, particularly from China, and acted as a networking platform for businesses involved in green mobility. Li Xuan, representing the Chinese EV brand Neta Auto, reported a notable increase in demand for EVs following the government’s strategy to reduce gasoline vehicle imports. Local enterprise Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex showcased its electric minibuses, indicating that the company sold 216 units within just one year. Furthermore, the Ethiopian government has incentivized the importation of EVs through tax benefits and financing options.
The exhibition also highlighted electric bicycles and tricycles, which are gaining popularity for their economic efficiency, particularly in rural areas. Woda Vehicle Manufacturing PLC reported a sale of over 500 electric tricycles within a year, catering to the local market’s needs. Currently, Ethiopia has more than 100,000 EVs on its roads and aspires to increase this number to 500,000 over the next decade, thus aiming to replace 95 percent of gasoline-powered vehicles.
As part of its broader strategy, the Ethiopian government is focusing on expanding EV production and establishing public charging infrastructure, offering support such as land provisions for investors. Additionally, Ethiopia announced a ban on gasoline and diesel vehicle imports earlier this year to expedite its transition to electric mobility in light of rising global fuel prices. “Ethiopia is going ahead to harness its renewable energy resources. This is a good start. I witnessed the EVs, with fair prices, winning the hearts of buyers,” remarked Yonas Leaketsion, an exhibition attendee.
The Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition marks a pivotal step for Ethiopia as it endeavors to become a leader in green transportation and sustainability initiatives. The event underscores the nation’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions significantly and outlines strategies to transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. With local manufacturers and international partners participating, Ethiopia aims to foster an environment conducive to technological advancements in green mobility. Moreover, the government’s recent policies, including the ban on gasoline-powered vehicle imports, indicate a strong push towards electric mobility, supported by the country’s abundant renewable energy resources.
In conclusion, Ethiopia’s first-ever green mobility exhibition serves as a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability and the promotion of electric mobility. Through strategic collaborations with international partners, the country is poised to transform its transportation sector by significantly increasing the number of electric vehicles on its roads. The government’s proactive measures, including tax incentives and a ban on gasoline vehicles, reflect a concerted effort to create a greener future for the nation, ultimately aiming for a significant reduction in carbon emissions.
Original Source: english.news.cn
