Electric vehicles (EVs) are taking over the world, and Nigeria is no exception. With rising fuel costs and increasing environmental concerns, Nigerian companies are stepping up to build EVs that are practical, affordable, and suited for local conditions. Whether it’s electric motorcycles for delivery riders, taxis for city commuters, or cargo vans for businesses, these companies are making serious moves. Here’s a closer look at some of the Nigerian EV companies leading the charge.
1. MAX
- Founded: 2015
- Total Funding: $39.6 million
- Flagship EV: MAX M3 Electric Bike
- Range: 80-110 km per charge
- Top Speed: 85 km/h
MAX started as a logistics company but shifted focus to EVs when the government banned commercial motorcycles in some Nigerian cities. Their MAX M3 electric bike is designed for commercial use, offering a smooth ride and a decent travel range. The company also provides financing options, making it easier for transport operators to own EV bikes. With over 45,000 users on its platform, MAX is setting the pace for electric two-wheelers in Nigeria.
2. Jet Motor Company
- Founded: 2018
- Total Funding: $9 million
- Flagship EV: Jet EV Van
- Range: 300 km per charge
- Battery Capacity: 107.8 kWh
Jet Motor Company wants to be the “Tesla of Africa.” It has already supplied electric vans to the Nigerian government and logistics giant GIGL. Designed to handle Nigeria’s rough roads, the Jet EV comes with reinforced shock absorbers, bigger tires, and higher ground clearance. With more companies looking for cleaner transportation options, Jet Motor Company is poised for bigger things.
3. Siltech
- Founded: 2016
- Total Funding: $3 million
- Flagship EV: Falcon Three-Wheeler
- Range: 300 km per charge
Siltech focuses on three-wheeled EVs, perfect for delivery services and short-distance transport. It recently partnered with Glovo to provide electric delivery bikes in Lagos. The company has also set up 10 EV service centers, making it easier for users to charge or swap their batteries. With plans to scale up production, Siltech could soon become a household name in Nigeria’s EV space.
4. Trekk Scooters
- Founded by: Isaac Oyedokun, Praise Sakanwi, Jean-Noël Bayi
- Available In: Select Nigerian universities
Trekk Scooters is an innovative startup offering electric scooter-sharing services in Nigerian universities like Lagos State University and Pan-Atlantic University. Users can rent scooters through a mobile app, making it a convenient option for short commutes. To ensure safety, Trekk scooters are geo-fenced, preventing them from being used outside designated areas. While still in its early stages, this concept could revolutionize urban mobility in Nigeria.
5. Possible EVs
- Founded: 2021
- Total Funding: $5 million
- Flagship Service: EV Taxi
- Range: 400 km per charge
Possible EVs launched Nigeria’s first electric taxi service to challenge misconceptions about EVs. Their taxis are currently being tested in Abuja, with plans to expand to Lagos and Akwa Ibom. With a strong focus on affordability and reliability, this company is on a mission to make electric taxis mainstream.
6. EMVC
- Founded by: Prince Mustapha Audu
- Flagship EVs: Adoja M1 & Adoja M2
- Range: 250 km per charge
EMVC is one of the few Nigerian companies producing four-wheeled EVs. Their Adoja M2 model features air conditioning, a reverse camera, and a solid range of 250 km per charge. Unlike many local EV startups focused on two or three-wheelers, EMVC is trying to make full-sized electric cars a reality in Nigeria.
Challenges Facing Nigerian EV Companies
While these companies are making impressive progress, they still face some hurdles:
Challenge | Explanation |
---|---|
High Production Costs | EV batteries make up nearly 50% of the total cost, making it expensive to produce four-wheeled EVs. |
Charging Infrastructure | Nigeria still lacks widespread EV charging stations, limiting adoption. |
Government Support | Unlike global EV giants like Tesla, Nigerian startups receive little financial backing from the government. |
Consumer Awareness | Many Nigerians are still skeptical about EVs due to concerns about reliability and range. |
The Future of EVs in Nigeria
Despite these challenges, Nigeria’s EV industry is growing fast. The government has drafted a national EV action plan, which, if implemented, could help local startups scale production and improve infrastructure. With the right support, these companies could position Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s electric vehicle market.
The Nigerian EV industry is still young, but the companies listed above are proving that clean and sustainable transportation is possible. Whether it’s electric motorcycles, vans, scooters, or taxis, each of these startups is solving real problems and shaping the future of mobility in Nigeria. If the industry continues to grow, Nigeria could soon be a leader in Africa’s EV revolution.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Stay updated with the latest trends in African technology!
