With Charging Networks Lacking, Africa Turns to Solar for EV Power

A Tunisian startup named Bako Motors is revolutionizing transportation across Africa by manufacturing solar-powered electric vehicles. These innovative models include the Bee passenger car and the B-Van delivery vehicle, designed specifically to harness the continent’s abundant sunshine.

By utilizing roof-mounted solar panels, these vehicles can gain 31 miles of charge per day for free, effectively bypassing the need for traditional charging infrastructure. This sustainable solution is ideal for the region’s rugged roads and last-mile delivery needs.

“The solar cells provide us with more than 50% of our needs,” Boubaker Siala, founder and CEO of Bako Motors, told CNN.

“For example, the B-Van, for commercial use, you can have free energy for about 50 kilometers per day… 17,000 kilometers per year. It’s huge.”

The company prioritizes local sourcing, with roughly 40% of the materials, including steel and lithium-iron-phosphate batteries, coming from within the continent. This approach helps keep the vehicles affordable, with prices starting as low as $6,200.

Quick Smiles:

• The B-Van can carry 800 pounds of cargo and travel up to 162 miles on a single charge.
• Solar charging provides nearly 10,600 miles of free driving every year for the commercial models.
• Manufacturing facilities in Tunisia and Saudi Arabia aim to produce 8,000 vehicles for African and European cities.

With an estimated market of one million vehicles per year in Africa, Bako Motors is positioning itself to lead the transition toward clean, accessible transportation. These sun-powered cars offer a bright future for entrepreneurs and families seeking eco-friendly independence.

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