Ethiopia’s EV Transition Gets a Boost as Ethio Telecom Cuts Charging Time for Drivers

Ethiopia is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) revolution with ambitious policies, expanding charging infrastructure, and growing local assembly capabilities.

The government aims to replace 95% of fuel-powered vehicles within a decade, marking a major step toward sustainability and energy independence.

A key initiative was the January 2024 ban on non-electric vehicle imports to fast-track the transition to green mobility.

To support this shift, the government offers duty-free import of EV parts, a 5% tax on partially assembled EVs, and a 15% tax on fully assembled EV imports.

These measures aim to boost local production and adoption of EVs.

Ethiopia’s EV market already includes over 100,000 electric vehicles, with a target of 500,000 within ten years.

With more than 90% of its electricity generated from hydropower, the country is well-positioned to power EVs with clean energy.

Investment in charging infrastructure is also a priority. The Ethiopian Petroleum and Energy Authority plans to install charging stations every 50 to 120 kilometers nationwide.

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A new directive outlines licensing, charging tariffs, power supply levels, and security standards. Public, commercial, and residential charging stations are being developed.

Ethio Telecom has launched an ultra-fast EV charging station in Addis Ababa that can charge up to 32 vehicles simultaneously.

The station uses AI to optimize charging speeds and integrates with the telebirr SuperApp for cashless transactions.

The transition to EVs is expected to bring economic benefits, as Ethiopia currently spends over $5 billion annually on fuel imports.

Reducing fossil fuel dependence will save foreign currency and allow investment in other critical sectors.

Private companies are also contributing to the EV shift. Chinese automaker BYD has partnered with MOENCO to expand EV operations in Ethiopia.

Additionally, Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex assembles electric minibuses and buses using components from China’s Golden Dragon Company.

Despite challenges such as high EV costs and the need for widespread charging infrastructure, Ethiopia remains committed to its electric mobility vision.

By embracing EVs, the country aims to build a cleaner, more sustainable, and economically resilient future.