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Towards Net Zero Electric Vehicle Emissions in Africa

  • Regional Renewable Energy – Africa (S Gadzanku, T Reber and D Arent, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Sustainable/Renewable Energy Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review focused on the role and potential of the electric vehicle fleet in decarbonization in Africa. The potential of electric vehicle diffusion across the continent was discussed, including the role of standard infrastructure, electricity accessibility, barriers, and opportunities.

Recent Findings

There are 10 million electric vehicles (EVs) in use in the world in 2020 representing close to 1% of the total global fleet of vehicles. More than 350 EV models exist today, but popularity is still low because there is a lack of homogeneity in charging standards across the world.

Summary

Hybrid vehicles are the most common EV in Africa. But only six countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have the potential for wide-scale electric vehicle deployment. Renewable energy is the most viable alternative to broaden electricity access and EV deployment across Africa. Lack of incentives, charging infrastructure, skilled labor force, and high import taxes are the major barriers to EV transition in Africa.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mechanical Engineering, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana

    Godwin Kafui Ayetor

  2. The Brew-Hammond Energy Centre, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana

    Godwin Kafui Ayetor

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  1. Godwin Kafui Ayetor
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Correspondence to Godwin Kafui Ayetor.

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Ayetor, G.K. Towards Net Zero Electric Vehicle Emissions in Africa. Curr Sustainable Renewable Energy Rep 9, 70–76 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40518-022-00204-z

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