Chinese Companies Increase Focus on EV Production in Africa
Summary
Chinese automakers are ramping up electric vehicle production plans in Africa as slower demand at home and trade barriers abroad push them to seek new markets. Chery’s purchase of Nissan’s former factory in South Africa highlights growing interest in local assembly, supported by policy incentives and expanding regional demand.
Key Points
- Chery has bought Nissan’s former Rosslyn factory near Pretoria to produce plug-in hybrid and battery-powered EVs under its Jetour brand.
- Chinese automakers are increasingly looking to Africa as a new market amid weak domestic demand and rising trade barriers in Europe and North America.
- South Africa, Morocco, Kenya, Ethiopia and Ghana are seen as attractive destinations for EV investment because of industrial capacity, policy support and improving infrastructure.
- Analysts say local EV production could boost jobs, supply chains, charging infrastructure and battery manufacturing across Africa.
