Côte d’Ivoire electric vehicles rise in vtc sector despite challenges

The VTC sector in Côte d’Ivoire is increasingly embracing electric vehicles, with over a thousand already on the roads. These vehicles, known for their quiet operation and zero fuel dependency, are particularly favored by ride-hailing drivers due to their lower operational costs. However, the adoption of electric mobility in the country faces hurdles such as high upfront purchase prices, a scarcity of charging stations, and heavy reliance on imports.

Behind the wheel of an electric vehicle, Abidjan-based driver Mouhamed Kanaté navigates the city’s bustling streets daily. As a VTC driver for two years, he hands over 28,000 FCFA to his employer each day. A trained accountant with a passion for environmental issues, Mouhamed switched to electric to cut costs and boost profitability. «Charging an electric vehicle costs no more than 13,000 FCFA, whereas a thermal vehicle would drain at least 20,000 FCFA. This difference allows me to increase my daily earnings while supporting my family’s needs.» he explains.

The three leading VTC operators in Côte d’Ivoire have begun integrating electric vehicles into their fleets. Industry insiders report that nearly 300 such vehicles are already serving Abidjan’s urban transport sector. Yet the shift towards greener mobility is not without obstacles. The initial purchase price remains steep—around 14 million FCFA per vehicle. Additionally, the country’s charging infrastructure is underdeveloped, with only about a hundred stations nationwide. Repairs also pose a challenge due to the limited availability of spare parts, as most vehicles are imported. «The scarcity of mechanical parts makes maintenance difficult,» says Mouhamed. «Since these vehicles are imported, local suppliers for spare parts are still few and far between.»

Government incentives to drive investment

In response to growing demand, several dealerships are expanding their offerings. Sinoafrik, a distributor of Chinese brands in Abidjan, has dedicated space in its Cocody showroom to electric SUVs and sedans. Initially, the challenge was convincing customers of the advantages. «We educated them on the long-term savings and economic benefits,» explains Reine Trésor Gosset, a sales representative. «Now, there’s genuine interest, not just curiosity. The most sought-after models are those used for VTC services and small 25-seat vehicles.»

The Ministry of Transport is committed to supporting this transition to greener mobility through incentives for investors. «The investment code already offers substantial benefits to promote and facilitate investor installations,» notes Jean-Marc Atché, Director of Planning and Projects. «We’re actively backing several ongoing projects, including a major assembly plant that will locally produce electric vehicles in Côte d’Ivoire.»

The Ivorian government aims to lead by example, targeting 10% of its administrative vehicle fleet to be electric by 2030.