Côte d’Ivoire’s VTC sector accelerates towards electric vehicles

In Côte d’Ivoire, a notable shift is underway in urban transportation, with over a thousand electric vehicles now navigating the nation’s roads. These quiet, fuel-efficient cars are particularly prevalent in the Vehicle for Hire (VTC) sector, where their significantly reduced operating costs are proving highly attractive. Despite this growing momentum, the electric vehicle landscape still faces considerable hurdles, including high initial purchase prices, a scarcity of charging infrastructure, and a heavy reliance on imports.

Mouhamed Kanaté, a VTC driver in Abidjan for two years, is a testament to this shift. An accountant by training with a keen interest in environmental matters, he deliberately chose an electric vehicle to lower his daily operational costs and boost profitability. He explains the financial advantage: “Unlike gasoline cars, a minimum recharge for a thermal vehicle costs 20,000 FCFA. For an electric car, the maximum is 13,000 FCFA. This allows you to operate below the 20,000 FCFA threshold and still generate a profit, which helps cover family expenses and other charges. It’s truly profitable.”

The three major VTC operators in the Ivorian market are increasingly integrating electric models into their fleets. Industry figures indicate that approximately 300 electric vehicles are currently serving urban transport needs in Abidjan. However, the expansion of this green mobility trend faces significant hurdles. The initial acquisition cost remains steep, with each vehicle priced at no less than 14 million FCFA. Furthermore, the charging infrastructure is still nascent, with only about a hundred charging stations available nationwide. Mouhamed Kanaté also highlights the complexities of maintenance: “The difficulties lie in equipment upkeep. Mechanical parts are scarce. Since these are imported vehicles, there aren’t many spare parts dealers available at the moment.”

Government incentives for electric vehicle investors

In response to the rising demand for electric vehicles, several dealerships are broadening their product ranges. Sinoafrik, a representative of Chinese brands in Abidjan, now prominently features electric SUVs and sedans in its Cocody showroom. Initially, the challenge was to reassure and educate potential customers. Reine Trésor Gosset, a sales representative, notes, “We encouraged them to better understand the model, emphasizing its economic and advantageous aspects. Now, there’s genuine demand; customers are showing more interest in purchasing than just curiosity. The most sought-after models are currently those suitable for VTC services and small 25-seater vehicles.”

The Ministry of Transport is committed to supporting this transition to greener mobility, particularly through incentive measures aimed at investors. Jean-Marc Atché, the Director of Planning and Projects, states, “Today, our investment code offers numerous facilitations designed to promote and ease the establishment of investors.” He further adds, “We are supporting several ongoing projects, notably a large factory planned for the assembly of electric vehicles right here in Côte d’Ivoire.”

The Ivorian government itself aims to lead by example, setting a target for 10% of the administration’s vehicle fleet to consist of electric vehicles by 2030.