(VOICE OF NAIJA)- In a significant move toward sustainability, the Ghanaian government is developing a comprehensive policy framework to transition public transportation from traditional petroleum-based fuels to cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs), as revealed by Vice President Dr Bawumia.
Dr. Bawumia, speaking on 27 September 2023, during a visit to the offices and assembly plant of Solar Taxi, a pioneering Ghanaian startup specializing in EV assembly and production, outlined the nation’s vision for a future reliant on electric mobility.
He emphasized the feasibility of this transition and the imperative to shift away from petrol and diesel as a matter of national policy.
Solar Taxi, founded in 2019 and now among Africa’s top three EV manufacturers, stands at the forefront of this green revolution. The company’s CEO and Co-Founder, Jorge Appiah, highlighted Solar Taxi’s ability to convert conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles into electric ones, alongside their successful production of electric cars, motorcycles, buses, and battery packs.
With over 460 vehicles assembled and more than 500 sold, Solar Taxi is experiencing burgeoning demand, not only within Ghana but from across the African continent.
Adding to its innovative portfolio, Solar Taxi operates a ride-hailing service and offers motorcycle leasing and vehicle sales, all streamlined through the use of Ghana Cards. The company even provides flexible financing options for their EVs, requiring no collateral, only a Ghana Card ID.
During a ride in one of Solar Taxi’s EV buses, Mr Appiah showcased the remarkable capabilities of these vehicles, capable of travelling long distances without the need for frequent recharges. This demonstration included Vice President Bawumia and key figures from various transportation agencies and environmental bodies.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the dual significance of this transition – addressing climate change and reducing the high cost of transportation in Ghana.
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He emphasized that fuel and spare parts constitute the primary factors affecting transport costs, both of which can be dramatically reduced with electric vehicles. This shift towards greener transport is envisioned to alleviate the financial burden on Ghanaian households and individuals.
Although acknowledging that the transition may face challenges, Vice President Bawumia underscored the profound benefits it would bring, including lower transport costs, foreign exchange savings, job creation, and opportunities for training in EV maintenance. He urged collaboration with technical and vocational education institutions to develop curricula tailored to EV maintenance, preparing the workforce for the increasing adoption of electric vehicles.
Recognizing that fuel and transport costs significantly influence inflation and other economic variables, Dr. Bawumia praised Solar Taxi’s founders for their entrepreneurial dedication.
He expressed the government’s commitment to supporting such ventures and encouraged other innovative individuals and enterprises to drive technological advancements in Ghana and across Africa.
The Ghanaian Presidency fully endorses this transformative initiative towards sustainable and eco-friendly public transport, heralding a greener and more prosperous future for the nation.
