When people think of electric vehicles, Tesla may be the first brand that comes to mind. But that narrative is changing fast. China is now the global leader in EV production and sales, accounting for more than 11 million of the 17 million electric vehicles sold globally in 2024 alone.

This transformation didn’t happen overnight. It took over two decades of planning, government funding, strategic tax incentives, and a clear industrial policy. In 2001, China recognized it could not beat the U.S., Germany, or Japan in traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Instead of competing head-on, China pivoted toward the underdeveloped EV segment. Today, that decision has paid off. China not only dominates EV manufacturing but also controls a significant portion of the battery supply chain, producing cost-effective alternatives to Western counterparts.

This was no accident. It was the outcome of long-term vision, consistent government support, and private-sector innovation.

Where Does Africa Stand?

Africa’s EV journey is far more fragmented. While some countries are gaining momentum, others are just beginning, and a few remain largely inactive due to broader national challenges. But the movement is underway, and countries can be grouped based on their level of progress:

1. The Trailblazers

These are the countries closely following the global EV path—setting up infrastructure, supporting local innovation, and crafting forward-looking policies.

• South Africa is steadily rolling out charging stations and attracting EV investment.
• Morocco has become a hub for EV assembly, with local partnerships involving Renault, Stellantis, and Citroën.

2. The Spark Starters

These are markets that resemble early-stage China—backing local startups, creating EV pilot programs, and encouraging community adoption.

• Kenya is leading with BasiGo, an electric bus company already operating 35 units, with 500 more on order.
• Rwanda and Uganda are deploying tens of thousands of silent electric motorcycles supported by battery swap stations for quick recharges.

3. The Builders

These countries are preparing the groundwork—implementing import bans, setting up incentive structures, and drafting policy.

• Ethiopia made headlines as the first African nation to ban ICE vehicle imports, signaling its intent to go all-in on EVs.
• Ghana is supporting two- and three-wheeled EVs and plans to build charging infrastructure by 2027.

4. The Sleepers

These nations have yet to make significant moves in the EV space. Infrastructure gaps, unreliable power, or competing national priorities are holding them back.

• Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has expressed interest in EVs through policy discussions but lacks meaningful action. Without charging stations, clear incentives, or strategic investment, the opportunity remains untapped.

Why This Matters

The EV wave is global and fast-moving. As demand for clean transport grows, African countries that act now will benefit from industrial investment, job creation, and better urban air quality. Those who wait too long risk being left behind.

Africa has unique advantages: a young tech-savvy population, growing urbanization, and untapped reserves of critical minerals used in EV batteries. What’s needed now is coordinated policy, infrastructure development, and local entrepreneurship.

China’s rise didn’t happen by accident. Africa’s success in this space won’t either. The time to act is now—before the next industrial wave passes the continent by.