Ethiopia turns to EVs, bans gas-powered private vehicle imports

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia: Ethiopia's bold move to ban gas-powered vehicle imports in favor of electric cars has encountered significant hurdles as the country grapples with limited infrastructure to support the shift.

Despite government efforts to promote EV adoption, early adopters are facing practical challenges, from a lack of charging stations and skilled mechanics to scarce spare parts.

Awgachew Seleshi, who opted for an EV earlier this year to avoid high fuel costs, quickly realized the difficulties. "Charging my car has been a challenge," he shared. Imported parts are expensive, trained mechanics are few, and resale values are low, leaving many frustrated with the transition.

Ethiopia's ambitious policy aims to ease dependence on fuel imports and reduce emissions. It is backed by expectations that the Grand Renaissance Dam will soon generate up to 5,000 megawatts of power, supporting EV growth.

Over 100,000 electric vehicles are being imported each month, with a target of 500,000 per month by 2030. However, Addis Ababa's infrastructure is still catching up, and some doubt whether the necessary changes will arrive fast enough.

Mechanic Yonas Tadelle noted the strain on available garages. "Only two or three places can fix EVs here, and they're overwhelmed," he said. "We also lack the tools, parts, and skills needed for these cars."

With parts often sourced from China, many EVs sit unused in parking lots and garages, awaiting repairs. The government plans to build charging stations and even set up a domestic EV battery manufacturing plant to ease reliance on imports. However, these initiatives are still in the early stages.

The limited infrastructure and unproven durability of imported EVs, mainly from China, have left consumers wary. "Few people are willing to take the risk due to the lack of infrastructure and reliable repair services," economist Samson Berhane explained. While the government is optimistic that Ethiopia can meet EV electricity demands within the next decade, many locals are reverting to gasoline-powered vehicles, finding them more reliable despite high taxes.

Businessman Yared Alemayehu experienced these issues firsthand. After struggling to maintain his electric taxi, he sold it at a loss and returned to a 2007 Toyota Corolla. "Charging was a hassle, the car constantly broke down, and repairs were costly," he said.

Taxi driver Dereje Hailu, who had high hopes for his Chinese-made EV, has also had second thoughts. "I worry I'll be stranded if I drive far from Addis Ababa," he said, highlighting the ongoing challenges Ethiopia must address to support a genuinely electric future.