What's happened
Ethiopia's ambitious push for electric vehicles is encountering significant hurdles, including unreliable electricity supply and a lack of spare parts. Despite a ban on non-electric vehicles and plans for increased imports, many citizens express skepticism about the feasibility of this transition.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Ethiopian civil servant Seleshi expressed doubts about his decision to switch to an electric vehicle, citing challenges like expensive spare parts and a lack of mechanics. The article highlights that over 100,000 electric cars are imported monthly, but many remain unused due to service issues. In contrast, All Africa notes that Africa's overall slow adoption of electric vehicles is largely due to unreliable electricity sources, with experts emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure. The differing perspectives illustrate the complex landscape of electric vehicle adoption in Ethiopia and beyond.
How we got here
In January 2024, Ethiopia became the first country to ban non-electric private vehicle imports, aiming to reduce fuel subsidies and promote green technology. However, the transition has revealed infrastructural inadequacies and challenges in servicing electric vehicles.
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