Atlas Group Plans to Launch First African-Designed EV

Atlas Group Plans to Launch First African-Designed EV

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‍Due to affordability and infrastructural concerns, electric vehicle adoption in Africa is moving at a snail's pace. However, the Atlas E-Mobility Group, an Anglo-Moroccan Technology Company, has devised a solution.

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The Plan

The UK-based technology company aims to manufacture its first-ever African-designed and engineered electric car as early as 2026, and according to the firm, this particular model will be affordable and well-engineered. 

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While the Atlas Group hasn't named the BEV, it promises to offer a unique appeal to patrons in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, where there is little to no EV infrastructure in place. The technology company also plans to build state-of-the-art production and development facilities in Morocco, allowing the marque to distribute the vehicles across the continent. Atlas remains tight-lipped regarding the BEV's specification but says it will have advanced range-enhancing technology, battery, and charging networks and will use a 'proven OEM EV architecture'. 

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At this stage in SA, the Mini SE is the most affordable option with a price tag of R745,402 before the funky-looking GWM Ora officially launches with a R716,900 price tag.  

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"We strongly feel that Africa is being ignored by companies in the EV transition. However, no one should underestimate the continent's determination to advance nor doubt its ability to produce world-leading zero-carbon-free technological solutions," says Mohammed Yehya EL Bakkali, Co-Founder and CEO of Atlas E-Mobility Group. 

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Adoption of EVs in Africa

There is no way we can escape what the future holds for the EV sector, and electrification will play a significant role in the transformation of the automotive fold, although the transition is happening at a relatively slow pace. The move by the Atlas Group will hopefully serve as a catalyst for the fast and widespread adoption of EVs in Africa. 

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