Ethiopia Launches First Green Mobility Exhibition to Promote Electric Vehicles

Ethiopia hosted its first-ever green mobility exhibition, Ethio-Green Mobility 2024, from November 22-25, 2023, in Addis Ababa. The event showcased electric vehicles and renewable technologies, reflecting the government’s commitment to sustainable transport and carbon emission reduction. With rising EV demand and government support, Ethiopia aims to significantly increase its electric vehicle fleet in the coming years, transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Ethiopia has embarked on a significant initiative to advance green transportation by hosting its inaugural green mobility exhibition, Ethio-Green Mobility 2024, from November 22 to 25, 2023. The exhibition is taking place at the Huajian International Light Industry Special Economic Zone in Addis Ababa and showcases the latest innovations in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy technologies. The Ethiopian government, represented by Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime, emphasizes its dedication to establishing sustainable mobility and promoting a climate-resilient economy.

The exhibition is notable for attracting numerous Chinese exhibitors, providing a platform for networking and collaboration among businesses involved in green mobility solutions. With a new government plan to restrict the importation of gasoline-powered vehicles, the local demand for electric vehicles is projected to surge. Li Xuan, a representative of Neta Auto, stated that the Ethiopian market for EVs is thriving, primarily due to the government’s efforts to phase out non-renewable energy vehicles.

Local company Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex is also making strides in this sector by assembling electric minibuses and coaches from partially assembled parts sourced from China. Their quality control manager, Ermiyas Dersu, reported that their sales have been robust, demonstrating a favorable market for EVs in Ethiopia, further supported by government incentives such as tax preferences for EV imports.

Additionally, electric bicycles and tricycles are becoming increasingly popular. Woda Vehicle Manufacturing PLC is leading in this segment, having sold over 500 electric tricycles within a year, primarily catering to rural and smaller town markets. The Ethiopian government aims to increase the number of electric vehicles on the road from over 100,000 currently to 500,000 in the next decade, striving to eliminate 95 percent of fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

Authorities are actively promoting the establishment of EV production facilities and public charging stations, alongside providing investors with land for electric mobility service centers. Earlier this year, the government announced a ban on gasoline and diesel vehicle imports to expedite the transition to electric transportation amid rising global fuel prices.

Visitors to the exhibition have expressed optimism about these green initiatives. Yonas Leaketsion remarked on the accessibility of affordable EVs and their appeal to consumers, suggesting a positive outlook for Ethiopia’s future in sustainable mobility.

Ethiopia’s recent effort to host its first green mobility exhibition aligns with its broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector. With growing concerns about climate change and global fuel price fluctuations, nations, including Ethiopia, are increasingly focusing on renewable energy sources and electric vehicle technology. The Ethio-Green Mobility 2024 exhibition is a strategic move to showcase advancements in electric mobility and connect stakeholders within the green transport sector, underscoring the government’s commitment to building a sustainable and resilient economy. The transition toward electric vehicles represents not only an environmental imperative but also an economic opportunity for local manufacturers and tech innovators.

Ethiopia’s first-ever green mobility exhibition marks a significant milestone in its transition towards sustainable transportation solutions. By showcasing electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, the event highlights the country’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering a green economy. Government initiatives, such as import restrictions on gasoline vehicles and support for EV manufacturing, illustrate a proactive approach to enhancing green mobility in the nation. With strong demand for electric vehicles anticipated in the coming years, Ethiopia is poised to make substantial strides in the global move towards environmentally friendly transport.

Original Source: english.news.cn