GAC Group Launches Electric Vehicles in Ethiopia to Boost Green Mobility

GAC Group has introduced its electric vehicles, AION Y and ES9, in Ethiopia, marking its entry into the market. The Ethiopian government supports this shift to electric mobility, having banned gas-powered vehicles. With plans to boost EV production and infrastructure, the government pushes for a greener future with a target of 500,000 EVs by 2033.

In a significant push for electric mobility in Ethiopia, the Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (GAC Group) has officially launched its electric vehicle (EV) brand in the country. The event took place in Addis Ababa, where they presented two of their EV models, the AION Y and ES9 to local stakeholders. This marks GAC Group’s exciting entry into the East African automotive market and reflects the growing trend towards vehicle electrification in the region.

Zeleke Temesgen, commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting EV adoption. He highlighted that the Ethiopian government has enacted a ban on the production, import, and assembly of gas-powered vehicles. “Ethiopia would be an ideal market for reputable companies like GAC Group,” said Temesgen, alluding to the increasing need for environmentally friendly transportation options.

The commissioner not only praised GAC Group for its initiative but also urged the company to consider establishing a manufacturing plant in Ethiopia. This move could capitalize on the favorable investment climate and a burgeoning market, thus advancing Ethiopia’s green mobility agenda. Acknowledging the urgency of this transition, Bareo Hassen, the Ethiopian state minister of transport and logistics, reiterated the government’s ambition to achieve green mobility rapidly, which will aid in conserving energy and bolstering the national economy.

Currently, there are over 100,000 EVs on the roads in Ethiopia, with plans aiming to increase this figure to 500,000 within the next decade. The government is not just focusing on vehicle numbers but is also striving to enhance the infrastructure necessary for electric mobility, such as public charging stations. They are offering incentives to private investors, including free or leased land for those engaged in EV after-sales services.

In terms of future plans, GAC International President Wei Haigang has stated that the company aims to work closely with their partner, Huajian Group, to not only sell electric vehicles but also to develop the necessary charging infrastructure. Moreover, they are looking into local assembly operations in Ethiopia. Wei mentioned the country’s considerable potential in the EV market, indicating that GAC Group envisions an active role in domestic EV production to help expedite Ethiopia’s transition towards electric mobility.

GAC Group’s entry into Ethiopia’s electric vehicle market aligns with the government’s green mobility ambitions. With significant investments and infrastructure development on the horizon, the partnership aims to increase the country’s EV presence substantially over the next decade. The collaboration could potentially transform Ethiopia’s automotive landscape, promoting sustainability and economic recovery.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com