3 main reasons why EV mobility makes more sense in Africa.

The majority of electric vehicles or commonly called EVs, will probably be produced for countries with modern infrastructure, but I believe one should start from a blank piece of paper. In this short article, I will highlight 3 reasons why EV mobility makes more in Africa despite all the challenges we often associate with the continent.

Clean energy: 

Energy is indeed a big problem in Africa. However, it is possible to produce clean, renewable energy from solar and wind to power EV mobility fleet. At first, focusing on public and shared mobility rather than individual ownership will ensure the surplus of energy production can be to the grid. I believe this will help accelerate the transition to clean energy production. Without being too political, the concept of 1 family 1 car (if gasoline-powered) in Africa would increase C02 emissions. Perhaps, there is a way forward where Africa is leading the way with clean mobility (ride-sharing & public transportation).

Scalability:

Africa’s large population is expected to be 1,34 billion by 2050. This alone is a key fact to consider, which also means challenges linked to scaling. Someone once told me: “ if you tell me about a problem, always give at least 3 solutions,” and problems are there to be solved. For example, EV makers can optimize the battery supply chain since most raw materials to produce batteries are in Africa. A vertical supply chain concept should be used to produce vehicles and components locally.

Design for Change: 

Despite what most people think. Africans are early adopters and technology savvy. From mobile payments to mobile e-commerce, no continent has been more able to embrace Technology change as Africans. A blank paper allows EV mobility OEMs to think fresh and boldly. This will allow greater innovation and mobility experience because you do not have to update millions of gasoline vehicles and fuel stations.

Start fresh and maybe, bring some of the experience back internationally. Probably reading this short article, you might have more reasons or also arguments against it. However, I want to challenge you to consider this from a customer journey mapping perspective. To design an EV mobility concept for Africa, it probably has to be localized, considering local concerns, usability, accessibility, and sustainability.

What do you think ? feel free to share and comments