If you’ve walked through the streets of Addis Ababa or the growing corridors of Adama recently, you’ve likely noticed a change in the familiar hum of the city. The loud, sputtering roar of the traditional petrol bajaj is being replaced by a smooth, near-silent whir. Ethiopia is currently at the forefront of an African transport revolution: the shift to electric tuk-tuks.
Why the Shift?
For years, the bajaj has been the backbone of “last-mile” transport in Ethiopia. They are nimble, affordable, and can navigate narrow neighborhoods where larger buses cannot reach. However, the rising cost of imported fuel and the environmental toll of carbon emissions have made the old models unsustainable.
The Ethiopian government recently made headlines by banning the import of petrol-powered private vehicles, signaling a massive “Green Legacy” push into the transport sector. Electric bajajs are not just a luxury; they are becoming the national standard.
Benefits for Drivers and the City
- Zero Fuel Costs: With Ethiopia’s abundant hydroelectric power from projects like the GERD, electricity is significantly cheaper than imported gasoline. Drivers are reporting savings of up to 70% on daily operating costs.
- Lower Maintenance: Electric motors have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines. No oil changes, no spark plugs, and no exhaust systems mean more time on the road and less time in the garage.
- Air Quality: Addis Ababa’s air is getting cleaner. By removing tailpipe emissions, these vehicles are helping tackle respiratory health issues in crowded urban areas.
The Road Ahead
While the transition is exciting, challenges remain—mainly regarding charging infrastructure. However, with local assembly plants like those in Debre Berhan and Dire Dawa ramping up production, the sight of a “Blue and White” electric bajaj is no longer a rarity; it is the symbol of a cleaner, more efficient Ethiopia.
Are you a driver thinking of switching? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!