Innoson rolls out electric vehicle built in Nigeria

Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM) has launched its first locally produced electric vehicle (EV), manufactured at IVM’s plant in Nnewi, Anambra State.

Cornel Osigwe, IVM’s Head of Communications and Corporate Affairs, shared the news on Facebook, expressing excitement about the milestone. “I just test-drove the first Innoson electric vehicle produced in Nnewi. We are just starting,” he wrote. The vehicle was assembled at the company’s factory in Anambra state, though details on pricing, production volume, and market availability remain under wraps.

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A new era for Nigeria’s auto industry

Electric vehicles are seen as essential in the global push to cut carbon emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), road transport accounts for over 15% of global energy-related emissions. EVs have gained popularity, with 18% of all new cars sold in 2023 being electric.

However, Nigeria has lagged due to the high costs of EVs and the country’s limited charging infrastructure. But with the recent deregulation of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector and surging fuel prices, EVs could offer a cost-effective solution if charging is more affordable than refuelling.

Nigeria’s journey to electric vehicles

Innoson’s EV is not Nigeria’s first electric car. In 2021, Stallion Motors launched the locally assembled Hyundai Kona, marking the country’s entry into the EV market. The National Automotive Industry Design and Development Council (NADDC) also initiated a pilot program, setting up 100 solar-powered EV charging stations across Nigeria.

The launch of the Kona highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s automotive industry to adapt to global shifts toward cleaner energy. As countries worldwide move away from petrol-powered vehicles, Nigeria has an opportunity to reduce emissions and modernize its transport sector.

Power challenges threaten EV growth

Despite these advances, Nigeria’s energy situation poses a significant challenge. The country generates just 5,000 megawatts of electricity, far below the estimated 40 terawatts required to meet demand. This energy gap has led to widespread reliance on generators, with a substantial 40% of Nigeria’s electricity needs met through backup power sources.

Electricity costs in Nigeria are among the highest globally, averaging $0.52 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), according to the World Economic Forum. Only 25% of the rural population has access to electricity, forcing many to rely on biomass and waste for energy.

These challenges underscore the need for investments in Nigeria’s power sector to support the growing EV market and ensure that electric cars become a viable alternative for millions of Nigerians.