Government’s Decision
In February 2024, Ethiopia announced a significant shift in its transportation policies by banning the importation of fuel-powered cars. The ban is part of Ethiopia’s larger goal to adopt green mobility, aiming to reduce pollution and reliance on imported fuel.
Economic and Environmental Drivers
The decision comes after Ethiopia spent €6 billion ($7.6 billion) on petrol and diesel imports in 2023. Additionally, pollution levels in urban centers have worsened due to fuel-powered vehicles.
Investment in Electric Vehicles (EVs)
The Ethiopian government is prioritizing electric vehicles (EVs), with plans to implement charging infrastructure nationwide. In 2022, Ethiopia introduced tax exemptions for electric cars, indicating its commitment to this policy shift.
Smoke Tests for Existing Cars
Owners of existing fuel-powered cars will face stringent smoke tests, with vehicles failing the test deemed unfit for the road. This will help remove high-emission vehicles from circulation.
Concerns Over Affordability
One challenge is the affordability of EVs for many Ethiopians. The transition could be difficult for the average citizen, given the high cost of electric vehicles relative to conventional cars.
Long-term Goals
By 2030, Ethiopia aims to have at least 152,800 electric vehicles on the road, aligning with the country’s Ten-Year Development Plan (2021-2030). However, details on the ban’s full implementation are still emerging, with questions about its impact on vehicles currently in transit from overseas.
Conclusion
Ethiopia's ban on importing fuel-powered cars marks a decisive step toward green mobility and environmental sustainability. While the move aligns with global trends toward reducing carbon emissions, it presents challenges, particularly regarding the affordability and accessibility of electric vehicles (EVs) for the general population. As the government focuses on infrastructure and policy support for EVs, the success of this transition will depend on addressing these economic concerns and ensuring a smooth implementation of the ban
