Tunisia’s E-Mobility Analysis
Tunisia stands as North Africa's pioneering nation in sustainable mobility transformation, strategically positioned to lead the region's transition to electric transportation. With ambitious renewable energy targets, growing government support, and innovative private sector initiatives, Tunisia offers compelling opportunities for e-mobility investment and development. This comprehensive analysis examines Tunisia's e-mobility landscape, policy framework, market dynamics, and strategic investment opportunities.
Macro Data: Tunisia at a Glance
Tunisia's strategic location and progressive policies create an ideal environment for e-mobility adoption across North Africa.
- Population Size: ~12.1 million (2023)
- GDP: $48.53 billion USD (2023), growth rate 0.4%
- Urban Population: 71.2% (8.7M people in urban areas)
- Years Since Independence: 67 years (since 1956)
- Human Development Index: 0.732 (high human development)
- Motorization Rate: 187 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants (2021)
- EV Milestone: Nearly 100 electric vehicles imported, with ambitious targets for 50,000 EVs by 2030
Key Urban Centers:
- Tunis: Capital and largest city, political and commercial hub
- Sfax: Major port city, industrial and trade center
- Sousse: Mediterranean tourist destination with historical significance
- Kairouan: UNESCO World Heritage site, Islamic cultural center
- Bizerte: Strategic northern port with maritime heritage
- Gabès: Coastal oasis, gateway to the Sahara
- Ariana: Part of Greater Tunis metropolitan area
- Gafsa: Southwest phosphate mining center
Government Support for E-Mobility
Tunisia has emerged as North Africa's e-mobility leader through comprehensive sustainability initiatives and ambitious renewable energy transformation targeting 35% renewable electricity by 2030.
The government's commitment is demonstrated through the National Transport Master Plan 2040, envisioning an integrated transport network promoting sustainability, and the ambitious target of 50,000 electric cars and 5,000 charging stations by 2030.
💪🏽 Major Policy Milestone: Tunisia offers TD10,000 ($3,200) bonuses per vehicle to accelerate EV adoption, while developing comprehensive regulatory frameworks for charging infrastructure and electric mobility services.
Types of Government Policies
1. Market-Based Instruments
- EV Purchase Bonus: TD10,000 ($3,200) direct incentive per electric vehicle
- Energy Subsidy Reform: Phasing out fossil fuel subsidies (averaged 2.1% of GDP, peaked at 5.3% in 2022)
- Carbon Pricing: 45% carbon intensity reduction commitment by 2030
- Renewable Energy Investment: 4 billion Tunisian Dinars ($1.6B) allocated to Tunisia Solar Plan
- Private Sector Incentives: IPP schemes encouraging private renewable energy investment
2. Regulatory Measures
- Transport Master Plan 2040: Comprehensive framework for integrated, sustainable transport
- Draft EV Charging Decree: Regulation framework for electric vehicle charging services
- Renewable Energy Target: 35% renewable electricity generation by 2030 (from 8% in 2022)
- NDC Commitment: 41% carbon intensity reduction vs. 2010 levels, 46% in energy sector
- Energy Demand Reduction: 30% primary energy demand reduction by 2030
3. Direct Provisions
- Charging Network: 26 public charging stations established, expanding to 5,000 by 2030
- Tunisia Solar Plan: Direct government investment in 1,860 MW renewable capacity by 2023
- Grid Modernization: ELMED interconnector project linking to European markets
- Public Transport Electrification: Transtu managing EV integration in urban transport
- Research & Testing: Government-led EV testing and stakeholder training programs
4. Information Provisions
- National Strategy Communication: Public release of 2035 energy transition plan
- EV Promotion Program: "Programme for Promoting Electric Transport in Tunisia"
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Education on environmental benefits and cost savings
- Stakeholder Training: Capacity building for industry players and technicians
- Survey Data: Regular monitoring via Observatoire de l'automobile (20% ready to buy EVs)
The Rise of E-Mobility in Tunisia
Tunisia's e-mobility transformation showcases strategic planning, moving from a nascent adoption phase to ambitious scaling. With nearly 100 electric vehicles currently on the road, primarily imported by offshore companies, Tunisia is positioning for exponential growth with targets of 50,000 EVs and 5,000 charging stations by 2030.
Market momentum is building through established importers like Universal Motors (Volvo), MG Motor, and BYD, creating a diverse EV landscape supported by TotalEnergies' pioneering charging network. The economic case is compelling, with 20% of Tunisians ready to purchase an EV in the short term. This strategy addresses urban congestion, where average speeds in Tunis drop to 7 km/h, imposing economic costs of up to 2% of national GDP.
Vehicle Market & Infrastructure (2023-2024)
Vehicle Market | Charging & Energy Infrastructure |
• 2024 EV Fleet: Nearly 100 fully electric vehicles | • Public Stations: 26 charging locations nationwide (2024) |
• Market Leaders: Volvo (EX30), MG Motor, BYD | • Network Leader: TotalEnergies is the first and leading operator |
• Conventional Fleet: 2.2 million petrol, diesel, or gas-powered vehicles | • 2030 Target: 5,000 stations |
• Consumer Readiness: 20% of Tunisians are ready to buy an EV | • Energy Grid: 96% natural gas-powered, transitioning to 35% renewables by 2030 |
• 2030 EV Target: 50,000 units (a 500x increase) | • Grid Modernization: ELMED interconnector project to link with Europe |
Key Challenges for EV Adoption
- High Vehicle Costs: EVs remain expensive compared to ICE vehicles for the average consumer, despite incentives.
- Limited Charging Network: Only 26 public stations exist, creating significant range anxiety and hindering mass adoption.
- Energy Supply Concerns: The grid's 96% dependency on natural gas limits the environmental benefits of EVs until the renewable transition accelerates.
- Consumer Education: A need for increased awareness to address misconceptions about EV performance, maintenance, and long-term savings.
- Economic Constraints: High national unemployment (16.4%) and public debt can impact consumer purchasing power for high-value goods like EVs.
EV vs. ICE: Total Cost of Ownership Analysis
ICE Vehicle | Electric Vehicle | |
Fuel/Electric Cost | $1.40 per litre | $0.12 per kWh |
Cost per 100 km | $11.00 | $2.40 |
Annual fuel/energy cost* | $2,640 | $576 |
Average Vehicle Price | $25,000 | $35,000 |
Government Incentive | $0 | -$3,200 |
Net Vehicle Price | $25,000 | $31,800 |
Annual Maintenance Cost | $1,500 | $500 |
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership | $45,500 | $37,176 |
Category | Details |
Average Annual Mileage | 24,000 km |
ICE Fuel Cost | ($11.00 x 240) = $2,640/year |
EV Energy Cost | ($2.40 x 240) = $576/year |
ICE Maintenance | Regular oil changes, filters, spark plugs, etc. |
EV Maintenance | Fewer moving parts, mainly tire rotation and brake service |
5-Year TCO Savings | Over $8,300 for EVs, highlighting a strong long-term value proposition |
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