Recently I wrote an article on how DPA, an Econet Global subsidiary, setting up EV charging stations across Zimbabwe. By the way, EV stands for an electric vehicle just in case you are wondering. Anyways, some of you might have been wondering how one can get an EV. In this article, I will deal with that and other interesting information for you to know.
EV Trends Worth Mentioning
The proliferation of the use of EVs is evident in many parts of the world nowadays. Last year was particularly a great year in some markets across the globe. At the apex is Norway where EVs now account for over 85 per cent of the market share. This clearly shows that EVs are virtually mainstream in Norway and their market share keeps growing. In Sweden, the EVs market share now stands at half of the market share. In the UK the EVs market share shot up to over 20 per cent last year (up from just over 6 per cent the preceding year). These are just some notable examples to show you that the uptake of EVs is quite pronounced in some parts of the world.
Interestingly, the most sought after EV in the aforementioned markets is the Tesla Model 3. This goes to explain why Tesla is now the most valuable car manufacturer in the world. This reminds of Kevin O’Leary who once said, “If Elon Musk came into Shark Tank and told me to invest in Tesla before he started it, I would have said ‘No, it is too crazy’”. Ironically Tesla is now at the apex and Elon Musk is now over 400 times richer than Kevin O’Leary. Never be deterred by people’s opinions downplaying your ‘crazy’ idea – it just might pay off in the end. I just had to throw in that little side note to share with you a vital business lesson.
Zimbabwe and the African continent at large are still virgin markets for EVs. This in itself presents great prospects for those that will engage in either selling EVs, setting up charging ports and so on. Already we have seen VAYA and ZERA adding EVs (Nissan Leafs) to their fleets.
A Look At BYD
BYD is a Chinese company that is making waves in the EVs domain. They have a wide array of EVs spanning from passenger vehicles, buses, garbage trucks to ordinary trucks. They have recently been focusing their attention on establishing a market here in Zimbabwe. It is actually reported that they have already started making deliveries of EVs to local Zimbabwean clients. At the present moment, their key EV in Zimbabwe is the BYD T3 – it is a van-like vehicle (more like a family vehicle).
Specs Of The BYD T3
This EV comes with a 50.3 kWh battery and delivers a torque of 180Nm. It has a top range of 310 kilometres which makes it possible to travel between most major cities in Zimbabwe on a single full charge. This van has 7 seats making it ideal for most families or small group trips. It can sustain a total payload of 720 kilograms which also makes it ideal for the inclusion of considerable luggage when travelling. It is said to be low-maintenance and requires just 90 minutes to reach full charge from zero. It can be charged using direct current (DC) charging ports.
Looking at those specs I am sure you can see how owning an EV might not really be a huge leap from normal life. Even with regular power cuts, you can still be able to find time to charge your EV. There is also the option of using solar for charging purposes. Looking at the BYD T3 you can see it has a 50.3 kWh battery – that really is not much in terms of power consumption. Of course, variables like how often and distant you drive end up determining your electricity bill. Overall, I am sure this is something that can be managed and doable for most folk in Zimbabwe.
BYD Zimbabwe is establishing its first EV Experience Centre at 31 Airport Road in Harare. You can also visit their Facebook page here for more information. You can also call +263 774 516 987 or +263 712 735 080 to place your orders. They will also be selling batteries, solar panels plus other related accessories and services. Mainstream uptake of EVs in Zimbabwe can be a game-changer as it can significantly reduce the fuel import bill.
