HARARE, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe's drive toward electric mobility is gaining momentum, with growing interest in electric vehicles (EVs) signaling a shift toward more sustainable transport systems, as showcased at the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show.
At the six-day show, which ended Saturday in Zimbabwe's capital, Harare, the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED), a state enterprise providing transport and logistics services to both the public and private sectors, drew public attention by displaying a range of EVs, including Chinese models such as the Nio Firefly, Geely Riddara, and King Long electric commercial vehicles.
Through these demonstrations, the enterprise aims to introduce green technologies, build public confidence, and lay the groundwork for a national e-mobility ecosystem.
"Our motivation is not simply to introduce electric vehicles but to demonstrate that sustainable mobility can work in Zimbabwe. We want to create awareness, give Zimbabweans an opportunity to experience electric vehicles, and ultimately contribute to the development of an e-mobility ecosystem," Tarisai Muzorori, CMED public relations officer, told Xinhua.
Recognizing that EVs remain a relatively new concept in the country, CMED is tailoring its portfolio to meet sector-specific needs while addressing consumer hesitation.
"Our approach is to introduce electric vehicles based on the needs of different sectors rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach. Currently, our portfolio includes passenger vehicles, and we are also looking at opportunities around electric buses and other commercial vehicles," Muzorori said.
She noted that as awareness grows, lower operating costs and integration with renewable energy are emerging as key drivers of interest, adding that hurdles to EV adoption include consumer concerns over driving range, battery life, charging time, and resale value.
Harare resident Prestige Nota echoed these concerns, noting that establishing charging infrastructure and local service centers is vital to building market trust.
"We have seen Chinese brands such as BYD opening showrooms and offering support services in Zimbabwe. If people can be assured of after-sales services, maybe confidence in electric vehicles will increase with time," Nota said.
To encourage adoption, the Zimbabwean government reduced customs duty on EVs from 40 percent to 25 percent in 2025, while providing duty rebates on solar equipment and charging infrastructure.
The green transition is also urging auto technicians to adapt. Farirai Majaya, a local auto technician, noted that while some traditional mechanics are hesitant to embrace new systems due to the current small market size, upskilling is essential.
"Those professionals who are already in the industry need to upgrade their skills," Majaya said, emphasizing that resisting the shift to electric mobility means ignoring an inevitable global future. ■