Ethiopia Hosts First Ever Electric Vehicle Expo to Promote Green Mobility

Ethiopia hosted its inaugural Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition from November 22 to 25 in Addis Ababa, focusing on electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. The event underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable mobility and reducing carbon emissions. Key participants included local and Chinese companies, highlighting a growing market for electric vehicles following government policies to phase out gasoline-powered cars. The aim is to significantly increase the number of EVs on Ethiopian roads over the next decade while enhancing infrastructure for supporting electric mobility.

Ethiopia has embarked on a significant milestone in its journey towards sustainable transportation by hosting the Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition, the first of its kind in the nation. Conducted from November 22 to 25 at the Huajian International Light Industry Special Economic Zone in Addis Ababa, this exhibition emphasizes Ethiopia’s dedication to decreasing carbon emissions and advancing green transport solutions. The event features a wide array of innovations, ranging from advanced electric vehicles (EVs) to renewable energy technologies.

During the opening of the event, the Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mr. Alemu Sime, reiterated the government’s resolve to foster sustainable mobility and establish a climate-resilient, green economy. He articulated ongoing efforts to diminish reliance on nonrenewable energy in the transportation sector, leveraging Ethiopia’s abundant renewable energy resources. The exhibition attracted numerous Chinese exhibitors, serving as a vital platform for networking and establishing market connections in the green mobility sector.

Mr. Li Xuan, the Ethiopian representative of the Chinese EV manufacturer, Neta Auto, remarked on the growing interest in electric vehicles, a trend bolstered by governmental policies aimed at reducing gasoline-powered car imports. In alignment with this trend, local company Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex showcased its electric minibuses at the exhibition, reporting the sale of 216 units within less than a year. The firm utilizes components sourced from the Chinese Golden Dragon Company to assemble these vehicles, which reflects a rise in the demand for electric mobility solutions in Ethiopia.

Electric tricycles and bicycles are also gaining traction, with local enterprises such as Woda Vehicle Manufacturing PLC leading efforts to produce affordable light EVs. Their electric tricycle offers an economical alternative to traditional three-wheelers, and they have successfully sold over 500 units in one year, particularly appealing in rural areas. Currently, there are over 100,000 electric vehicles operating in Ethiopia, with aspirations to increase this number significantly over the next decade.

The Ethiopian government continues to encourage the expansion of electric vehicle production and supportive infrastructure, including public charging stations. Recently, it announced a ban on the import of gasoline and diesel vehicles, accelerating the transition towards electric mobility amid global fuel price rises. Visitors expressed optimism about the electric vehicles’ affordability and the government’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy, marking a promising step towards a greener transportation future.

The Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition is a landmark event showcasing Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing sustainable transport solutions. With global efforts to combat climate change gaining momentum, countries are increasingly looking toward green technologies, and Ethiopia is uniquely positioned due to its vast renewable energy resources. This exhibition not only highlights technological innovations in electric mobility but also exemplifies Ethiopia’s proactive stance towards reducing carbon emissions and fostering a green economy. As the nation aims to transition from fossil fuels, exhibitions and government policies play a crucial role in shaping public awareness and adoption of electric vehicles.

In conclusion, the Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition represents a transformative step for Ethiopia in promoting electric mobility as part of its broader environmental strategy. The government’s initiatives to encourage EV adoption and local production, coupled with the increasing demand for sustainable transport solutions, signal a robust shift towards a greener future. As Ethiopia continues to leverage its renewable energy capabilities, it sets a compelling example for other nations aiming for sustainability in transportation.

Original Source: english.news.cn