In a major stride toward the adoption of renewable energy in the automobile industry, Botswana unveiled its first batch of locally assembled electric vehicles in the nation’s capital, Gaborone. The event, held at the showroom of the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), marks a milestone in the country’s journey toward embracing sustainable mobility solutions.
The unveiling ceremony showcased a collaboration between BITRI, a state-owned research institution established in 2012 under the Ministry of Communications, Knowledge, and Technology, and two Chinese vehicle manufacturing companies. BITRI Chief Executive Officer Shedden Masupe hailed the event as the successful culmination of a strategic partnership with Chinese manufacturers Skywell and CHTC Kinwin.
Skywell, one of the partners, has contributed to the assembly of sport utility vehicles (SUVs), while CHTC Kinwin is focused on aiding Botswana’s efforts to produce electric buses. These locally assembled electric vehicles (EVs) shows Botswana’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting the use of renewable energy sources in its transportation sector.
Botswana’s President, Mokgweetsi Masisi, was in attendance to inspect the new electric vehicles and praised BITRI for aligning with experienced partners to help propel the country into the age of electric mobility. Masisi emphasized the significance of the initiative, noting that it supports Botswana’s broader goals of advancing renewable energy while fostering the development of a knowledge-based economy.
“This is one of the examples of our commitment to e-mobility. We want to play a part in this, not just for our economy and environment, but also to enhance those aspects of our knowledge economy that optimize our natural endowments,” President Masisi said.
The locally assembled vehicles were put together by engineers trained in Botswana, further highlighting the country’s investment in capacity building within its workforce. This initiative is expected to create jobs, reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to the development of a greener and more sustainable economy.
A Vision for the Future
With the support of Skywell and CHTC Kinwin, Botswana is set to become a leader in electric mobility in Southern Africa. The introduction of electric SUVs and buses aligns with the country’s strategy to leverage cutting-edge technology and innovations to promote clean energy.
BITRI’s efforts are an integral part of the nation’s plans to diversify its economy while taking proactive steps to address climate change. President Masisi’s endorsement of the project reinforces the government’s ambition to place Botswana at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution in the region.
As the global automotive industry continues its transition toward electric vehicles, Botswana’s move to locally assemble EVs signals a bold commitment to sustainability, economic growth, and the empowerment of its people. The newly unveiled electric vehicles are set to revolutionize the transportation landscape in Botswana and beyond.
The launch of these locally assembled electric vehicles in Gaborone is a significant achievement for Botswana, marking the country’s entry into the global electric mobility movement. With Chinese partners and local expertise at the forefront of this initiative, Botswana is paving the way for a sustainable and technologically advanced future in the transportation industry.