Electric mobility framework to accelerate adoption of EVS

20.09.20

An electric mobility framework is set to open space for increased adoption and uptake of electric vehicles, a move that will significantly reduce the country’s fuel import bill, said Mr Eddington Mazambani, Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (ZERA) Acting Chief Executive Officer.

Speaking at a Renewable Energy summit held recently, Mr Mazambani said the framework, which is currently being developed, would create a conducive environment for increased use of electric powered vehicles in the country.

“ZERA has already procured the demo electric vehicle (EV) and supporting infrastructure, standards, and regulations are being developed”, said the Mr Mazambani.

“Going forward, we are planning to coordinate how renewable energy technologies such as solar PV can be deployed to cater for the charging of EVs. We also intend to engage industry players on the installation of pilot charging infrastructure at strategic locations to stimulate uptake of the EVs.”

The electric mobility framework is one of the offshoots of the Renewable Energy Policy (2019) whose goal is to increase power generation from renewable energy sources.

Adoption of EVs will significantly reduce fossil fuel imports, improve efficiency of transport, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

The electric mobility framework has national targets and proposals which include duty and VAT free imports to stimulate growth of the sector and facilitation of investment in at least two EV assembly plants.

Public transport companies are expected to participate in the growth of the sector through procurement of electric buses, initially for demonstration purposes.

E-mobility refers to the development of electric powered vehicles.

The development of the E-Mobility Framework is financed by the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Other countries such as France, Norway, Japan and United Kingdom announced plans to phase out internal combustion engine powered cars by 2050.