Uche Cecil Izuora
As global energy transition continues to grow, Africa and Middle East electric vehicle (EV) market projected at USD 3.83 billion in 2025, is set to expand from USD 5.06 billion in 2026 to USD 20.39 billion by 2031.
It is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 32.15 per cent from 2026 to 2031.
Nigeria is mentioned as one of the African countries making significant investment progress in the EV market and the country’s future charging hub expands infrastructure to new markets.
Key drivers include sovereign wealth funds investing in domestic production ecosystems, and oil-exporters utilizing solar resources to lower charging costs and draw global original-equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
Decarbonization mandates, declining battery costs, and the introduction of public fast-charging corridors fuel demand, despite short-term challenges from used ICE imports. Passenger cars currently dominate, but commercial fleets are seeing increased adoption as oil-and-gas operators issue large electrification tenders. Energy majors are forming strategic partnerships with automakers to enhance EV performance in extreme-heat.
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations have integrated electric mobility quotas into national agendas to anchor OEM investments.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 targets 30 per cent EVs in Riyadh by 2030, while the UAE aims for a 50 per cent EV mix by 2050. These strategies encourage public-sector zero-emission vehicle procurement, catalyze private fleet conversion, and standardize certifications under Gulf Standardization Organization rules. Morocco’s goal to reach 2,500 charging points by 2026 highlights how firm policies accelerate infrastructure growth, aligning with COP28 commitments.
Fast-charging corridors facilitate regional EV mobility. EVIQ’s 150 kW site on the Riyadh-Qassim motorway exemplifies highway feasibility.
The UAE plans 70,000 chargers across Abu Dhabi by 2030, with Dubai targeting 1,000 sites by 2025.
Morocco aims to connect major cities with green-energy-powered DC units for rapid stops, while Nigeria’s future charging hub expands infrastructure to new markets. Increased corridor density enhances commercial-vehicle uptime, making electrification viable for operators servicing major ports.