Discover how unified electric vehicle (EV) standards across East Africa are transforming mobility, reducing emissions, and attracting investment.

The Push for Harmonized EV Standards in East Africa

East Africa is accelerating its transition to electric vehicles (EVs) through a coordinated push for harmonized standards. As nations like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Rwanda roll out individual EV policies, the need for unified frameworks has become increasingly urgent. With the region's automotive industry projected to reach $42 billion by 2027, synchronized standards could be the key to unlocking East Africa's full potential as a sustainable mobility hub.

Why Harmonization Matters

Fragmented regulations across the region hinder the adoption of EVs. Inconsistent import codes, tax regimes, and charging infrastructure make it difficult for EVs to operate smoothly across borders. For instance, an EV that works perfectly in Kenya might face compatibility issues in Uganda or Tanzania.

Market Growth Opportunity

Kenya, a regional leader, has seen EV registrations jump from just 65 in 2018 to over 4,000 in 2023. With abundant mineral reserves (30% of global cobalt, lithium, and copper), East Africa has the raw materials to drive battery production locally.

Climate Imperative

Transport-related emissions in Africa are growing at 7% annually. Unified EV standards can fast-track the reduction of greenhouse gases by making clean mobility more accessible and scalable.

National Policies Driving EV Adoption

Ethiopia: A Bold Leap Forward

Ethiopia banned the import of combustion-engine vehicles in early 2024, signaling a strong shift towards electric mobility. With over 30,000 EVs already on the roads and a target of 150,000 by 2032, Ethiopia is also focusing on local assembly and public transport electrification.

Kenya: Gradual Yet Strategic

Kenya halved EV excise duty from 20% to 10% and introduced off-peak electricity tariffs at KES 8/kWh to encourage EV use. These efforts resulted in a nearly 300% increase in registrations between 2023 and 2024. The government aims to set up 1,000 EV charging stations by 2027 and wants 5% of new car sales to be electric by 2030. Learn more on AutosKenya.

Rwanda: Clean Mobility Through Two-Wheelers

Rwanda has limited petrol-powered motorcycle taxis in Kigali and only registers electric ones. The government also provides tax incentives and aims to reduce energy sector emissions by 9% by 2030.

Regional Collaboration: East African Community Initiatives

The East African Community (EAC) is working on regional EV policies that align with national goals. Projects include harmonized import codes, EV testing procedures, and regional incentives. Kenya is developing technical standards while Rwanda focuses on feasibility studies and climate goals.

A flagship project by the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) will launch a centralized energy trading platform by 2025. Spanning 13 countries, this initiative aims to power the region's EV ecosystem with affordable, renewable electricity.

Industry Partnerships and Private Sector Leadership

Local Innovation: Ampersand and Roam

Companies like Ampersand are producing electric motorcycles tailored for boda boda riders. In partnership with BYD, Ampersand plans to manufacture 40,000 units in Kenya and Rwanda by 2026.

Kenyan-Swedish startup Roam is offering solar-charged electric motorbikes and buses, while BasiGo recently secured $42 million to roll out 1,000 electric buses.

EV24.africa: A Digital Marketplace

Platforms like EV24.africa simplify the EV purchase process by offering centralized listings, financing options, and transparent pricing.

For affordable used EVs and hybrids suited to East African conditions, visit Auto24 Kenya to explore options like the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona EV, and electric motorcycles from Ampersand.

Global and Regional Organizational Support

The UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), GEIDCO, and APUA launched a training initiative in June 2024, supporting over 140 professionals across 25 countries. The focus: building local EV and battery storage expertise.

ECA also supports regional value chain development. By leveraging Africa’s natural resources and industrial potential, East Africa can build competitive EV ecosystems.

Examples of Progress:

  • Volkswagen assembles electric vehicles in Kigali.

  • Kenya Power plans 100 charging stations by 2025 in partnership with the UN.

  • Uganda’s Kiira Motors produces solar and battery-powered buses.

The Benefits of Unified EV Standards

For Consumers

  • Seamless cross-border travel with compatible charging stations.

  • Lower EV prices due to economies of scale.

  • More confidence in EV infrastructure.

For Manufacturers

  • Streamlined regulatory compliance.

  • Faster go-to-market timelines.

  • Incentives for local manufacturing and export within AfCFTA.

For Governments

  • Easier infrastructure planning.

  • Shared resources for testing and certification.

  • Aligned climate goals and international funding eligibility.

Accelerating Market Growth and Meeting Climate Goals

Investments and Local Production

Afrigreen Automobile has partnered with Chery to open a $20 million EV assembly plant in Kenya by 2025. Such initiatives reflect growing investor confidence, backed by harmonized policies.

Local startups are receiving more funding, with over $25 million raised by EV startups across sub-Saharan Africa in 2021.

Two-Wheelers Leading the Charge

Electric two-wheelers could account for 70% of sales by 2040. Opibus and Ampersand are already scaling battery-swap networks to support high-mileage boda boda riders.

Remaining Challenges

  • Weak regulation of used vehicles in 40 African nations.

  • Limited charging infrastructure.

  • High upfront EV costs.

  • Skills gaps in vehicle maintenance and EV technology.

Solutions Ahead

Unified standards can streamline import rules, training programs, and financial models like leasing and battery swaps.

What Comes Next: Roadmap to Standardization

  • Policy Alignment: Standardize import duties, safety, and emissions regulations.

  • Infrastructure Expansion: Link EV charging to renewable energy grids.

  • Trade Facilitation: Reduce cross-border EV and component tariffs.

  • Human Capital Development: Train technicians and build awareness.

  • Strategic Partnerships: Leverage AfCFTA and public-private collaboration.

A Unified Strategy for Growth

In December 2024, a high-level meeting in Lusaka, Zambia, outlined a roadmap for regional EV production. A memorandum of understanding is expected in 2025, strengthening policy and infrastructure development.

Final Thoughts

East Africa is poised to lead Africa's EV revolution. Unified standards will lower costs, simplify logistics, and encourage innovation. With the right partnerships and policies, the region can become a global example of sustainable mobility.

For regular updates on EV policies, reviews, and driving guides, visit AutosKenya. To explore affordable EVs for Kenyan roads, check out Auto24.

Call to Action: Have thoughts on East Africa’s EV journey? Share them in the comments or join the discussion on social media.