Operating an electric vehicle (EV) in Tanzania is far cheaper than traditional fuel-powered cars, with studies showing savings of up to 85% per kilometer, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Eng. Felchesmi Mramba, has said.
Speaking on March 6, 2026, during the official launch of electric vehicles through DOW ELEF AUTO EV (ZERA) Limited, Mramba said the cost of running a petrol or diesel car averages around TZS 200 per kilometer, compared to just TZS 25 for an electric vehicle.
“This clearly shows that electric vehicles are more affordable and offer citizens a chance to cut transport expenses significantly,” he said.
Mramba described the launch as a key milestone in Tanzania’s transport sector reforms and part of the Sixth Phase Government’s efforts under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to attract investment and promote clean energy technologies.
He noted that the government has set up an enabling environment for EV development through the National Electric Vehicles Policy Framework, approved in December 2024.
The policy aims to boost local production of electric vehicles, expand their use, integrate them with renewable energy, and build nationwide charging infrastructure.
Tanzania has also made strides in power generation, with installed capacity now exceeding 4,500 megawatts and electricity access reaching 85.5% in 2025.
These improvements, according to Mramba, will support modern, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly transport.
Across Africa, over 30,000 electric vehicles are now in use, with East Africa emerging as a hub for innovation in the sector.
In Tanzania, more than 10,000 EVs including motorcycles and other two- and three-wheeled vehicles are estimated to be on the roads.
Emmanuel Kazimoto, Managing Director of DOW ELEF AUTO EV (ZERA) Limited, said the company initially plans to import fully electric vehicles before rolling out locally assembled models.
He added that the long-term goal is to establish a local EV assembly plant, which will create jobs and equip Tanzanian youth with advanced skills in modern automotive technologies.
