In Nigeria, the transportation sector is a significant contributor to environmental challenges. According to ScienceDirect, it is responsible for 48% of the country’s annual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from fuel combustion. By 2021, Nigeria was the fourth-highest carbon emitter in Africa, producing 137 million metric tonnes of CO2. The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) represents a crucial step in addressing these issues, promising a substantial decrease in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Statista’s forecasts highlight a growing trend in the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles. The market share for electric cars in Nigeria is expected to rise from 7.11% in 2022 to 23.82% by 2026. Similarly, hybrid vehicles are projected to see increased sales, with their market share growing from 2.83% in 2022 to 4.14% by 2026. This upward trend underscores the transformative potential of electric mobility in reducing the nation’s carbon footprint and fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Qoray, an innovative firm in Nigeria’s green transportation sector, is at the forefront of this movement. The company is dedicated to making electric mobility accessible and practical for everyday Nigerians, supporting a cleaner environment while enhancing economic opportunities and social inclusion.
Transforming transportation for a sustainable future
Qoray is on a mission to revolutionize transportation in Nigeria, making electric mobility accessible to everyone. With a focus on cleaner, safer, and more sustainable options, Qoray aims to shift the country from traditional combustion engines to electric vehicles (EVs). Their goal is clear: to reduce carbon emissions while promoting economic growth and social inclusion.
Empowering women and creating opportunities
One of Qoray’s most impactful initiatives is the delivery of 120 electric tricycles to female drivers in Kano State. This project, launched in early 2024, is a partnership with The Alternative Bank, a key player in Nigeria’s ethical banking sector. The electric tricycles, known as Qoray Teak, are specifically designed for local conditions and equipped with advanced lithium-ion batteries.
“This project is not just about green transportation; it’s about empowering women to shape their futures,” said Olabanjo Alimi, Qoray’s Managing Director. The initiative will provide women in the Mata Zalla and Yar Baiwa Cooperative Societies with the means to achieve financial independence through their transportation businesses.
By offering financing options, Qoray is fostering gender inclusion and job creation in northern Nigeria, where economic opportunities can be limited. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader energy transition policy, which seeks to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Building the infrastructure for electric vehicles
To support the growing demand for electric vehicles, Qoray is also focused on developing the necessary infrastructure. In May 2023, the company launched Nigeria’s first publicly accessible EV charging station in Victoria Island, Lagos. This significant milestone has opened doors for more Nigerians to consider electric vehicles as a viable option.
Following this success, Qoray is preparing to launch solar-powered battery swap stations in Kano. These stations will allow users to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones in under five minutes. “This solution eliminates long charging times and makes electric vehicles more convenient for daily use,” said Alimi.
Each station will feature multiple charging cabinets, capable of charging up to 12 batteries simultaneously. This innovative approach aims to create a seamless experience for electric vehicle owners, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.
Supporting Nigeria’s green energy goals
Qoray’s initiatives extend beyond transportation. The company is actively contributing to Nigeria’s sustainability goals by partnering with local organizations and international bodies. Their collaboration with LINKS, a Commonwealth program funded by UK AID, aims to create profitable business opportunities in Nigeria’s green energy sector.
“We are committed to improving mobility while contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive economy,” Alimi stated. The introduction of electric vehicles and solar-powered charging stations is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, helping Nigeria move closer to its climate targets.
A vision for a sustainable future
As Qoray expands its operations, the company remains dedicated to innovation and sustainability. By addressing the unique challenges of Nigeria’s transportation sector, Qoray is positioning itself as a leader in the transition to green mobility across Africa.
With projects like the electric tricycle initiative and the introduction of solar-powered battery swap stations, Qoray is paving the way for a future where electric vehicles are the norm. Their efforts reflect a vision of a sustainable transportation system that benefits not only the environment but also the people.
By making electric mobility more accessible, Qoray is playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey toward a greener, more prosperous future for all.
Read more on Global EV sales surge 21% in July, driven by record growth in China
