As part of a collaboration with China, 100 electric buses have been introduced in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa. While the buses were assembled by the local company Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex, all major components were imported from China. These Chinese-made electric buses are equipped with advanced technologies such as an Integrated Intelligent Transportation System and a Fare Collection System, and they have started serving passengers along Addis Ababa’s new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route.
Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime stated that these electric buses are environmentally friendly, have zero emissions, and offer high passenger capacity. It was emphasized that this collaboration with China will strengthen Addis Ababa’s public transport system and help alleviate the city’s existing transportation challenges. While China plays a key role in developing Ethiopia’s electric transport infrastructure, the Ethiopian government has also taken steps to transition to electric mobility, including banning the import of fuel-powered vehicles last year as part of its goal to replace 95% of conventional vehicles.