ADDIS ABABA – Ministry of Transport and Logistic expressed that country’s strategic plan of lessening fuel expenses is advancing well since it has managed to possess over 8,000 imported and locally assembled electric vehicles.
Transport and Logistic State Minister, Bereo Hassen told The Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that a strategic plan is being formulated to bring electric vehicles into the country with a view to lessening the fuel expense.
Currently, more than 8,000 imported and locally assembled vehicles including motorcycle and three-wheelers are found in the country, he said.
As to the State Minister, a number of electric vehicles are being imported to the country taking advantage of tax incentives of the government on the e-vehicles.
Accordingly, the government is providing 15 percent incentives for those who import vehicles from abroad, and five percent for those who import half assembled and tax free for those who assemble locally
“The incentive has played a great role in motivating investors, developing renewable energy as promptly as possible and helping the country have many electric vehicles,” he said.
He further stated that the ministry is doing to put 148,000 small e- vehicles and 4,850 buses into operation within ten years.
He pointed out that centers for vehicle charging are going to be expanded in all regional states and the introduction of long-distance vehicles into the market are being done with due focus.
“There are more than 40 electric charging machines in Addis Ababa whilst a number of efforts are being exerted to expand charging centers. As the e-vehicles are significantly useful in avoiding fuel dependence, minifying foreign exchange hurdle, the ministry is working hard to realize this mission thereby registering economic development,” he added.
He called up on all stakeholders to play their part to the expansion of the e-vehicles in a bid to properlyexploit the renewable energy, reduce wastage, soothe the impact of climate change, sound pollution, and other related issues.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD 27 AUGUST 2023
