By Adaobi Rhema Oguejiofor
The global shift towards sustainable transportation has gained momentum in recent years, driven by growing concerns about climate change, air pollution, and energy security. Electric Vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a viable alternative to conventional fossil fuel-powered vehicles, offering a cleaner, more efficient, and environmentally friendly option. This article delves into the opportunities and obstacles posed by the evolution of Electric Vehicles in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, the motoring industry plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy as well as the daily lives of citizens. With a large population and a vast land mass, the demand for efficient transportation in the country is ever-growing. As the world is moving towards zero carbon emissions, Electric Vehicles (EVs) seem like the best way forward.
A report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) revealed that the electric vehicle market has experienced notable growth in recent years and the growth is driven by advancements in range, model variety, and performance. As of 2023, electric passenger cars represent approximately 18 per cent of new car sales, reflecting their increasing popularity and the global shift towards sustainable transport solutions. IEA also noted that EVs play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions from road transport, which accounts for over 15 percent of global energy-related emissions.
In a recent development in the sector, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), an indigenous automobile manufacturing company, has announced the launch of its first locally produced Electric Vehicle (EV).
The Head of communications and corporate affairs at IVM, Cornel Osigwe, announced the milestone on his social media handle, highlighting the significance of this achievement for the Nigerian automotive industry.
He stated that the electric vehicle, which marks a significant advancement in the country’s automotive sector, was manufactured at IVM’s state-of-the-art production facility in Nnewi, Anambra state. Although the details on the pricing, number of units produced, and the timeline for the commercial release of the vehicles were not disclosed, Osigwe noted that this is IVM’s inaugural attempt into electric vehicle production.
According to him, the initial batch of the vehicles has been completely sold out and since posting about it, the company has received hundreds of calls and upfront payments from interested clients who want to be the first to drive the Innoson electric vehicle.
While EVs are revolutionizing the transportation industry worldwide by providing a cleaner, more sustainable alternative to conventional fuel-powered vehicles, in Nigeria, a country heavily dependent on fossil fuels, adopting them presents many opportunities and challenges for its energy landscape.
Prospects
Some of the benefits of deploying EVs in Nigeria are as follows:
Reduced Emissions and Air Pollution:
Nigeria, the largest oil producer in Africa, faces numerous environmental challenges as a result of increased pollution from the combustion of fossil fuels and it is a known fact that one of the primary advantages of EVs is their ability to lower carbon emissions significantly.
Transitioning to EVs can help reduce these issues by curbing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality as well as health outcomes. In a country like Nigeria where urban centres struggle with air pollution, transitioning to EVs can significantly improve public health. By integrating EVs into the transportation system, Nigeria can reduce its carbon footprint and align with the global climate goals.
Energy diversification:
Embracing EVs provides an opportunity to diversify the energy mix, incorporating renewable resources which contribute to the production of electricity required for EV charging infrastructure. This diversification can enhance energy security and stimulate economic growth through renewable energy investments. This is relevant because historically, Nigeria’s energy sector has been centred around oil and gas production and over-reliance on fossil fuels presents economic vulnerabilities, as oil price fluctuations impact the country.
Job Creation and Economic Growth:
With the introduction of EVs in Nigeria comes the need to establish a robust charging infrastructure deployment and manufacturing as well as maintenance services. These activities, therefore create employment opportunities and boost economic growth. The demand for skilled workers and technicians would increase and the opportunities for research and development would also increase further, promoting innovation and attracting foreign investment.
Energy Independence:
Promoting EV adoption can stimulate investment in local renewable energy infrastructure, improve trade balance, and increase self-sufficiency. This is beneficial because despite being an oil-producing nation, Nigeria imports a substantial portion of its refined petroleum products due to inadequate refining capacity.
Technological Advancement:
The use of EVs can accelerate technological advancements and promote sustainable mobility solutions in the nation.
Challenges
Some of the challenges facing the deployment of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in Nigeria are:
Infrastructural Gap:
Transitioning to EVs requires substantial investments in charging infrastructure. Nigeria, a vast country with limited electricity coverage, faces challenges in establishing a comprehensive network. Addressing the infrastructural gap would involve improving the power grid and installing charging stations across major highways, cities, and remote areas within the nation. To overcome these challenges, strong collaborations between the government, private sector, and international partners is required.
Grid Capacity and Stability:
In Nigeria, the existing power grid is already under strain as a result of infrastructural deficiencies and inadequate maintenance. The additional demand from widespread EV adoption can further stress the grid’s capacity and stability. So, there is a need for substantial upgrades and investments in the power infrastructure to enable it accommodate the increased load and also ensure a reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply.
Affordability and Accessibility:
Generally, EVs are more expensive than conventional cars and this is as a result of battery costs. This poses a challenge when it comes to ensuring the vehicle’s affordability and accessibility to the masses. Also, the initial investment and cost of maintenance may be prohibitive for many Nigerians. Implementing policies that incentivize EV ownership, such as tax breaks and subsidies, could help reduce the impact of this challenge.
Battery disposal and recycling:
Electric Vehicles heavily rely on lithium-ion batteries, which present challenges regarding their disposal and recycling. Nigeria needs to develop robust policies and recycling facilities to handle the increasing volume of used batteries. This is the only way to prevent pollution and allow valuable resources to be recovered and reused, thereby promoting a circular economy.
Currently, Nigeria stands at a crossroads where embracing EVs can reshape its energy landscape. However, strategic policies, collaboration between government and private sectors, and public engagement are vital for realizing the full potential of electric mobility within the nation.
By addressing the challenges and seizing opportunities, Nigeria, through auto companies like IVM, can pave the way for sustainable transportation and a cleaner environment.