Rwanda launches e-mobility strategy aiming for 20% EV adoption by 2030

Rwanda is making bold moves toward an electric future, targeting 20% electric vehicle (EV) adoption by 2030. This plan aligns with the country’s Vision 2050, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Key highlights include:

• Tax incentives: No import duties, VAT, or excise taxes on EVs, batteries, and charging equipment.
• Electric motorbike focus: Only electric motorbikes are eligible for public transport registration in Kigali starting 2025.
• Infrastructure growth: Charging stations planned every 31 miles; battery-swapping stations already serve 18,000 swaps daily.
• Private sector involvement: Companies like Ampersand and Spiro are leading with thousands of electric motorbikes and battery-swapping facilities.

Rwanda turns to electric motorbikes to drive down emissions | AFP

Government Policies and Incentives for E-Mobility

Rwanda’s government has introduced a range of fiscal and regulatory measures aimed at making electric vehicles (EVs) more affordable and accessible for both consumers and businesses. These initiatives play a central role in the country’s efforts to achieve its goal of 20% EV adoption by 2030. Alongside these measures, the government is also focusing on infrastructure development and updated regulations for motorbikes.

Tax Breaks and Subsidies

To support the 2030 target, Rwanda has removed import duties, VAT, and excise taxes on EVs, batteries, spare parts, and charging equipment. Additionally, a reduced corporate income tax rate is in place to attract investors into the EV sector. This favorable fiscal environment has already drawn companies like Kabisa, which inaugurated its EV House facility in Kigali in April 2025. This facility offers charging stations, maintenance services, and office spaces for EV-related businesses.

Electric Motorbike Regulations

Motorbikes, especially moto-taxis, account for 50% of Rwanda’s total vehicle fleet, with approximately 110,000 motorbikes nationwide. Recognizing their significant role, the government has implemented measures to encourage a transition to electric motorbikes. Starting January 1, 2025, only electric motorcycles will be eligible for commercial registration in Kigali, where around 25,000 motorbikes are used for public transport. Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore emphasized this shift, stating:

"We will not register petrol motorbikes for public transport in Kigali. Only electric ones will be considered for commercial public transport" [15,16].

It’s worth noting that this regulation applies only to new registrations, allowing existing petrol-powered motorbikes to remain operational. This initiative marks a significant step in transforming the moto-taxi sector. Juliet Kabera, Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority, highlighted the benefits, saying:

"There are already many stakeholders within the electric motorcycle ecosystem. Electric bikes are both eco-friendly and affordable" [15,16].

These efforts are beginning to yield results. For instance, Ampersand has already captured a 13% share of Kigali’s motorcycle taxi market as of May 2025.

Charging Infrastructure Support

To further boost EV adoption, the government is offering rent-free land on government-owned properties for the development of charging stations. Additionally, electricity tariffs for charging stations are capped at approximately US$0.10 per kWh, half the standard rate of around US$0.20 per kWh. Tax exemptions on charging equipment also help lower setup costs. For example, the cost of AC charging stations in Africa is around US$21,000 per unit, while DC fast charging stations range from US$50,000 to over US$200,000, depending on their location and power capacity.

These policies have attracted private sector investment. Kabisa, for example, recently launched an ultra-fast charging facility at SP’s Kanombe station in Kigali. The station features chargers with up to 240 kW capacity, capable of recharging vehicles in just 15–25 minutes. Pophia Muhoza, Managing Director of Kabisa Rwanda, expressed her enthusiasm:

"It’s a blessing to see so many customers, supporters, partners, and friends gathered in our new space, an exciting physical representation of the progress we are making – but we’re truly only getting started."

These initiatives are laying the groundwork for Rwanda to meet its ambitious EV adoption goals.

Infrastructure Development for E-Mobility

With supportive policies in place, Rwanda is now focusing on building the infrastructure needed to make electric vehicles (EVs) a practical choice for its citizens. The plan includes developing a network for both traditional charging and fast battery-swapping stations. As Srinivas Cheruvu, Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Rwanda, points out:

"People want to buy EVs, but they don’t have the confidence when they consider the limited charging stations available, and especially if they want to travel upcountry, it becomes even more difficult."

This infrastructure push builds on earlier incentives, laying the groundwork for Rwanda’s EV-focused future.

Expanding Charging Stations

The government is working on a master plan to ensure that charging stations are accessible throughout the country. The goal is to have stations no more than 31 miles (50 kilometers) apart, helping to ease concerns about running out of power on longer trips.

Using geospatial analysis, authorities have identified 224 potential sites for charging stations. The approach prioritizes high-traffic areas and leverages existing infrastructure like petrol stations and commercial properties to keep costs manageable and ensure convenience.

By August 2024, Rwanda had 24 public charging stations (a mix of AC and DC options), 4 stations for motorcycles, and 49 combined charging and battery-swapping facilities. While this marks progress, the government is actively seeking investments to meet its ambitious 2030 infrastructure goals.

Kabisa, a key player in this space, is planning to set up 38 EV charging stations by the end of 2024, ensuring coverage every 62 miles (100 kilometers) across the country. Partnering with Meshpower, Kabisa is also piloting solar-powered charging stations, aligning with Rwanda’s commitment to renewable energy.

Battery-Swapping Stations

Battery-swapping technology is a game-changer for Rwanda’s moto-taxi drivers. Instead of waiting hours to recharge, riders can exchange a drained battery for a fully charged one in under two minutes.

Leading this effort is Ampersand, which conducts over 18,000 battery swaps daily across Rwanda and Kenya. The company operates 32 swap stations in Kigali and plans to produce 18,000 batteries by 2025. At about $1.60 per swap, this system not only saves time but also boosts incomes. For instance, Numukobwa Dative, who financed a $2,100 electric motorcycle, now earns $23 daily, a 35% increase in income, while saving nearly $700 annually.

However, challenges remain. As Frederick Dusabimana, a motorcyclist in Kigali, explains:

"We understand that EVs are cheaper to charge and maintain compared to fuel-powered vehicles. However, many taxi-moto operators live or travel outside Kigali and may struggle with limited access to charging stations."

Battery-swapping stations help address this issue, providing a practical solution for areas with fewer traditional charging options.

Public-Private Partnerships

Rwanda’s e-mobility progress is fueled by partnerships between the government, private companies, and international organizations. These collaborations help share financial risks and accelerate the rollout of infrastructure.

For example, Ampersand operates more than 5,700 e-motorcycles in Rwanda and Kenya, supported by 25 swap stations. The company has ambitious plans to scale up to 600,000 e-motorcycles by 2030 and 5 million by 2033 across East Africa. Similarly, Spiro contributes to the ecosystem with 1,200 electric motorbikes.

In the public transport sector, IZI Electric and Basigo are expanding their fleets to 100 electric buses over the next few years, backed by funding from the Rwanda Green Fund. Currently, IZI Electric operates 7 e-buses, while Basigo has 6 in service.

To address the need for skilled workers, Safi Universal Link Ltd. (S.U.L E-Mobility) has established an E-Mobility Academy. CEO Tony B. Adesina highlights the broader impact:

"We are seeing steady growth in job creation and job placement due to the demand for new e-mobility solutions across the entire eco-system. Our aim is to create the next generation of e-mobility experts and enthusiasts, which will guarantee economic growth for Rwandans and our fellow Africans across the continent as more e-mobility stakeholders emerge."

Additionally, The BOOST Project, a collaboration between GIZ, UEMI, and PEM Motion, focuses on inclusive job creation to build the workforce needed for e-mobility.

The shift to electric motorcycles alone could save Rwanda $22 million annually in fuel imports. This demonstrates how infrastructure development not only supports environmental goals but also delivers significant economic benefits through public-private collaboration.

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Economic and Climate Benefits of E-Mobility

Rwanda’s push toward e-mobility is bringing environmental, economic, and health improvements that go well beyond just upgrading how people get around. By embracing electric vehicles, the country is tackling climate change, creating new economic opportunities, and improving public health.

Climate Benefits

The transportation sector in Rwanda is responsible for 13% of the country’s total emissions, with buses accounting for 40% and motorcycles contributing 26% of transport-related pollution. To meet its ambitious goals of cutting national emissions by 38% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, Rwanda has made e-mobility a cornerstone of its climate strategy. This focus is particularly important since taxi motorcycles alone are responsible for 32.42% of road transport emissions.

One initiative plans to roll out over 35,000 electric motorbikes by 2030, which could slash CO2 emissions by approximately 51,637 tons. Spiro, a company already operating 20,000 electric bikes across six African countries as of November 2024, is playing a key role in this transformation. Spiro’s CEO, Kaushik Burman, highlights the broader impact of their efforts:

"We are excited to support Kigali’s journey towards an all-electric public transport fleet. With Spiro’s EKON electric bike, designed for East African cities and now available for just $500, we’re helping make the switch to electric not only environmentally responsible but also economically viable. This transition is essential not only for Rwanda’s climate goals but for the health and well-being of its communities."

Spiro’s EKON electric bike offers a range of 62 miles (100 km) and eliminates tailpipe emissions. Beyond environmental benefits, this transition is unlocking new economic opportunities.

Economic Opportunities

Rwanda’s shift to electric vehicles is fueling growth across various industries, supported by updated charging infrastructure and motorbike regulations. The rapid rise in EV registrations reflects the market’s growing momentum. Local manufacturing is emerging as a crucial part of this evolution. Jean Baptiste Habumugisha from AutoMag.RW explains, "Local manufacturing is a key component of how technology is driving Rwanda’s automotive sector forward". Companies like Ampersand and Spiro are leading the way by introducing thousands of electric bikes, offering affordable options while also developing local expertise.

The expansion of charging networks presents another avenue for investment. Entrepreneurs and investors are exploring ways to build infrastructure to meet the rising demand for EVs. Rwanda’s access to resources like lithium also positions the country to benefit from battery production. For example, Ampersand plans to manufacture 18,000 batteries by 2025 and already operates 32 battery swap stations in Kigali, boosting job creation and economic activity.

Health and Social Impact

Switching to electric vehicles doesn’t just cut emissions – it also reduces air pollution, leading to better public health, especially in crowded urban areas like Kigali. Moving away from traditional combustion engines can lower pollutants that contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

The American Lung Association estimates that transitioning to electric transportation in the United States could save approximately 6,300 lives annually, prevent 93,000 asthma attacks, and reduce 416,000 lost work days each year. Vehicle emissions, which include fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ground-level ozone, are linked to serious health problems and have been associated with 19,300 to 54,000 premature deaths annually in the U.S.. Studies show that reducing air pollution can lead to noticeable health improvements in just weeks, such as fewer respiratory symptoms and reduced hospital visits.

For Rwanda, cleaner air means lower healthcare costs and better quality of life, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. These combined benefits – environmental, economic, and health-related – show how Rwanda’s e-mobility efforts are driving progress on multiple fronts, paving the way for sustainable growth.

Rwanda’s EV Market Status and Future Plans

Over the last four years, Rwanda’s electric vehicle (EV) market has seen impressive growth, setting the stage for achieving its ambitious 2030 goals. The numbers tell a story of rapid adoption and growing confidence in electric mobility. Let’s dive into the current state of the market and how platforms like AutoMag.RW are shaping its future.

Current EV Adoption Numbers

Rwanda’s shift toward electric mobility is evident in the numbers. Back in 2020, the country imported only 19 fully electric cars and no hybrid vehicles. Fast forward to 2024, and the landscape has transformed with 512 electric cars and 6,660 hybrid vehicles registered.

The growth rates are remarkable. Between 2023 and 2024 alone, electric vehicles surged by 396%, while hybrid vehicles grew by 179%. Over the four-year period, electric vehicles averaged an annual growth rate of 51%, and hybrids expanded at an even faster pace of 72%.

The motorcycle sector has also made significant strides. As of March 2024, Rwanda had approximately 4,800 electric motorcycles in operation. Ampersand leads the way with over 4,000 bikes, while Spiro adds another 1,200 units. South Korean brands like Kia and Hyundai dominate the electric car market. Notably, more EVs were imported in the first nine months of 2024 than in any previous year.

Role of AutoMag.RW and AUTO24.rw

AutoMag.RW plays a key role in Rwanda’s EV journey. It provides in-depth coverage of the country’s automotive evolution, offering insights into government policies, market trends, and practical advice for potential EV buyers.

AUTO24.rw complements this by serving as Rwanda’s go-to platform for buying, trading, and selling cars. As the leading dealer importing a wide range of EVs, AUTO24.rw introduced brands like Tesla, Leapmotor, and ROX to the Rwandan market. By showcasing both traditional and electric vehicles side by side, it empowers consumers to make informed choices about transitioning to electric mobility.

Future Goals and Challenges

Rwanda has set ambitious targets for the EV sector. By 2030, the country aims for 20% EV adoption in public transport. The overall EV fleet could grow to 25,000–30,000 vehicles, representing 8–10% of the total vehicle population. This includes 10,000–15,000 electric motorcycles, 5,000 electric cars, and 1,000 electric buses.

To support these goals, the government has introduced several incentives:

• Tax exemptions: No import duties, VAT, or excise taxes on EVs, spare parts, batteries, and charging equipment.
• Corporate tax benefits: EV companies enjoy a preferential 15% corporate tax rate.
• Green perks: EVs with green license plates get benefits like preferential parking and exemptions from future congestion charges.

Infrastructure development is also a priority. Rwanda is rolling out an EV charging master plan to ensure charging stations are no more than 31 miles (50 km) apart, even in rural areas. Kabisa plans to install 38 EV charging stations by the end of 2024, ensuring coverage every 62 miles (100 km).

Private companies are stepping up too. Ampersand aims to manufacture 18,000 batteries by 2025 and already operates 32 battery swap stations in Kigali. Meanwhile, IZI Electric and Basigo are working on deploying 100 electric buses with funding from the Rwanda Green Fund.

However, challenges remain. Many consumers and businesses lack awareness of EV policies, highlighting the need for a centralized online resource. Financial hurdles, such as high collateral requirements for e-mobility projects, persist. Additionally, there’s a shortage of skilled workers, emphasizing the importance of training programs through universities and international partnerships.

Rwanda’s policy framework, expanding infrastructure, and growing consumer interest create a strong foundation for achieving its 2030 vision. With government support, private sector innovation, and platforms like AutoMag.RW and AUTO24.rw, the country is steadily building an ecosystem that supports a sustainable transportation future.

Conclusion: Moving Toward an Electric Future

Rwanda has set its sights on a bold vision: achieving 20% electric vehicle (EV) adoption by 2030. This ambitious target is backed by a mix of forward-thinking policies, growing infrastructure, and recent strides in the e-mobility sector.

Key measures like tax exemptions, incentives for businesses, and extensive infrastructure projects have laid the groundwork for progress. Companies such as Ampersand and Spiro have played a pivotal role in driving this shift, showcasing how public and private sectors can work hand in hand to transform transportation.

However, reaching this goal will require ongoing collaboration across various sectors. Open dialogue among stakeholders is critical to overcoming hurdles like limited policy awareness and the financial challenges faced by startups. Practical steps, such as creating an online hub for EV-related policies and extending tax incentives to cover maintenance parts, are vital to clearing these roadblocks.

The private sector’s role in innovation remains central. For instance, companies like BasiGo and AC Mobility Rwanda are revolutionizing public transportation. Jit Bhattacharya, CEO and co-founder of BasiGo, highlights the impact of electric buses:

"Electric buses will be more cost-effective for operators while also dramatically reducing air pollution and CO2 emissions".

With transportation responsible for 13% of Rwanda’s total emissions, scaling up such initiatives is a key part of the country’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Building on private sector achievements, Rwanda must take actionable steps to ensure the long-term success of its e-mobility ecosystem.

To maintain momentum, regular forums for stakeholders, improved financing options, and specialized EV training programs will be essential.

Rwanda’s compact size, proactive government policies, and dynamic private sector create a strong foundation for e-mobility. By staying focused on collaboration and addressing lingering challenges, Rwanda is not only poised to meet its 2030 goals but could even surpass them, setting a precedent for sustainable transportation across Africa. This comprehensive approach underscores the nation’s commitment to a greener, more resilient future.

FAQs

What steps is the Rwandan government taking to promote electric vehicle adoption by 2030?

The Rwandan government has rolled out several initiatives to encourage the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and work toward its goal of 20% adoption by 2030. Among the most impactful measures are complete tax exemptions on EV imports, which include VAT, customs duties, excise taxes, and withholding taxes. These exemptions, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, are designed to make EV ownership more accessible by cutting costs significantly.

In addition to these exemptions, there’s zero VAT on EV imports, tax breaks on EV parts, and lower industrial tariffs for setting up EV charging stations. Together, these policies aim to reduce the financial barriers to EV adoption and encourage the expansion of charging infrastructure, helping pave the way for a smoother transition to electric mobility.

What impact will the shift to electric motorbikes have on Kigali’s moto-taxi industry?

The move toward electric motorbikes is poised to transform Kigali’s moto-taxi industry, replacing petrol-powered bikes with cleaner, more efficient alternatives. This shift not only aims to reduce emissions but also brings in modern infrastructure like battery swap stations and charging networks, paving the way for a more sustainable transportation system.

For drivers, the transition promises potential savings on fuel and access to government incentives. However, it might also require them to adapt to new operational methods. Beyond transportation, the focus on electric motorbikes creates possibilities for local EV manufacturing and new jobs, offering a boost to Rwanda’s economy while reshaping the city’s everyday commuting experience.

What obstacles does Rwanda face in building its EV charging network, and what steps is the government taking to overcome them?

Rwanda is making strides to grow its electric vehicle (EV) charging network, but there are some hurdles along the way. These include a limited number of charging stations, power grid limitations, and a lack of skilled technical professionals.

To tackle these challenges, the government has rolled out a detailed plan aimed at ensuring charging stations are spaced about 30 miles (50 kilometers) apart. They’re also offering enticing incentives, such as rent-free land for building charging stations, while prioritizing infrastructure upgrades to handle future energy needs. By establishing clear standards and teaming up with private companies, Rwanda is creating a solid foundation for a reliable and accessible EV ecosystem.