February 26, 2025

BYD Tang SUV launches in Côte d'Ivoire

February 27, 2025

Car dealer Loxea, a subsidiary of CFAO Group, has launched the BYD Tang SUV EV in Côte d'Ivoire. It brings the number of BYD models in the country to four, following the introduction of Atto 3, Dolphin & Dolphin Mini in 2024. Going up to 530 km on a single charge, the Tang has the longest range of any of the other three BYD models.

  • The seven-seater Tang SUV is much larger than the Atto 3, Dolphin and Dolphin Mini, all with five seats. Its larger capacity makes it ideal for families. It widens passenger EV options in Côte d'Ivoire, especially for buyers looking for more space and longer range.

  • The entry of BYD Tang in Côte d'Ivoire is part of the Chinese automaker’s Africa-wide expansion. The company, which has a lineup of eight electric passenger cars, is gradually rolling the models in Africa. BYD currently operates in 13 African countries and plans further expansion on the continent.

  • Our take: Most automakers have been targeting their cheapest EVs for Africa. Yet, the continent has a good number of wealthy people who can afford pricier, higher-quality EVs… Read more (2 min)

Marathon Motors, the importer & assembler of Hyundai cars in Ethiopia, has expanded its EV portfolio with two brands; the Hyundai Kona EV and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The two are selling for $57,000 and $74,000 respectively. A shorter-range Kona is available at $46,000. The Ioniq 5 has a range of 600 km while the Kona EV has a range of 550 km.

  • Ethiopia became the first country in the world to put a total ban on the importation of ICE vehicles in January 2024. The ban has opened space for EVs to thrive, evident from the rise of new models within the country. 

  • The country is preparing for the gradual transition from ICEs to EVs on its roads. Ethiopia is increasing its energy capacity and has set regulations for charging infrastructure to fast-track investment in much-needed charging stations.

  • Our take: Ethiopia may rely on imported EVs for the next decade before local manufacturing takes shape… Read more (2 min)

Volvo offers 2 years free charging for new EV buyers 

Volvo Car South Africa, the country’s best-selling EV manufacturer, is offering new buyers two years of free public charging. It is part of the automaker’s latest marketing campaign aimed at extending its market lead. Volvo is also offering an allowance to install home chargers that are faster than the standard home plug.

  • The cost of entry for EVs in South Africa – and Africa as a whole - is high. An electric car is not only more expensive than an ICE, but finding a charging station is hectic. Volvo is trying to reduce this barrier to entry for new buyers through its latest offers.

  • But free charging is not the only method that EV firms in South Africa are deploying to entice buyers. They are also slashing prices and handing out longer-term warranties for first-time buyers.

  • Our take: To compete in an increasingly competitive market, more EV companies will have to introduce such offers, which will make it easier for new buyers to choose EVs… Read more (2 min)

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uYiLo Electric Mobility Programme team poses in front of their prototype Electric Safari Vehicle in South Africa

Events

🗓️ South Africa hosts EV and Charge Live Africa (May 25)

🗓️ Kenya hosts E-mobility and Infrastructure Summit (May 21)

🗓️ IDTechEx hosts a webinar on EV thermal runaway regulations through material choices (Mar 27)

Jobs

👨‍💼 Africa E-Mobility Alliance seeks a Deputy Chief Convenor (Kenya)

📱 Africa E-Mobility Alliance seeks Content & Programme Director (Kenya)

👨‍✈️ MAX seeks an EV Fleet Officer (Nigeria)

Various 

⚡ A major problem coming for electric car drivers in South Africa

📈 MOGO Kenya expands their branches in Kenya's Coast region

📝 Zambian Electric Mobility Innovation Alliance (ZEMIA) releases their roadmap for e-bus deployment

Seen on LinkedIn 

Negede Worku, Insurance Expert, says, “I think it is a tough job for the insurers, as parts cost of EV cars is very high & repair spots are not available in the country, hence this problem needs an organized effort to establish EV repair facilities.”

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