Facing higher tariffs and trade barriers in the United States and European Union, Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are rapidly pivoting their international strategy toward Africa and other emerging markets. This shift is marked by a surge in Chinese-backed EV and battery plants, flagship model launches, and expanding local assembly operations across the continent.
In Nigeria, Chinese investment is driving the creation of EV and battery manufacturing plants, with the aim of leveraging the country’s substantial lithium resources. Earlier this month, Chinese ambassador Yu Dunhai confirmed plans for new facilities, emphasizing that industrialization in Africa is a priority for Beijing. Nigeria’s government has welcomed these moves, highlighting a new policy focus on local value addition and full-cycle manufacturing to transform mineral wealth into jobs and technology. The result is a wave of new Chinese-funded lithium processing plants, including a $600 million facility near the Kaduna-Niger border and a $200 million refinery near Abuja, with additional projects expected in Nasarawa state before the third quarter of 2025. More than 80% of the funding for these projects is provided by Chinese companies.
This trend extends beyond Nigeria. Chinese EV brands are establishing assembly lines and launching flagship models in key African markets such as Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Africa. In Egypt, BAIC, Geely, and SAIC Motor have set up or are planning CKD (completely knocked-down) assembly plants, while Morocco has attracted billions in Chinese investment for EV and battery material facilities, taking advantage of its trade agreements with the US and Europe and its rich phosphate reserves. Morocco’s ambition to become a major EV producer is supported by multiple Chinese battery and component manufacturers building new plants in the country.
Chinese automaker BYD has expanded its presence to 16 African countries, offering models such as the Atto 3, Dolphin, and Seal. The company recently launched three models in Kenya and is working with partners to expand charging infrastructure. Other brands, including Chery, GAC, Dongfeng, and Leapmotor, are also growing their African footprint, targeting both passenger and commercial segments. In Ethiopia, where the government has banned new petrol or diesel vehicles and offers incentives for EVs, GAC recently introduced its Aion models and plans to start local assembly within three years.
The appeal of Chinese EVs in Africa is driven by affordability, diverse model options, and strong after-sales support. Entry-level models such as the Geely Panda Mini Base and Lingbox Uni are available for under $10,000, while premium vehicles like the Leapmotor C01 and BYD Seal offer extended range and advanced features. Chinese firms are also active in the two-wheeler and commercial vehicle sectors, with projects like BYD’s collaboration with Rwanda’s Ampersand to electrify motorcycle fleets.
Analysts note that as US and EU markets become less accessible, Africa’s rapidly growing demand for clean energy vehicles and its openness to foreign investment make it an attractive destination for Chinese manufacturers. S&P Global Mobility’s Walt Madeira expects exports to Africa and South America to rise as a direct consequence of Western trade restrictions. Local policies, such as South Africa’s 150% tax incentive for EV production and Ethiopia’s ban on fossil-fuel vehicles, further support this trend.
Chinese investment in Africa’s EV sector is not limited to manufacturing. It encompasses the entire value chain, from lithium mining and processing to vehicle assembly and charging infrastructure. This integrated approach is expected to accelerate the continent’s transition to electric mobility, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.
