Ethiopia’s EV Landscape Transformed by Japanese Entrepreneur

(3 Minutes Read)

Japanese entrepreneur Yuma Sasaki made a significant investment in electric mobility in Ethiopia, establishing his company, Dodai, which has quickly become the country’s fastest-growing electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer.

Launched in 2022, Dodai focuses on electric two-wheelers tailored for commercial use, particularly for businesses needing delivery services. In under a year, the company has successfully sold 850 units, a notable achievement in a market facing regulatory challenges and unstable supply chains. Dodai’s electric bikes are popular for their performance, capable of traveling up to 150 kilometers (93 miles) on a single charge. Priced around USD 1,800—about USD 500 more than competitors like China’s Yadea and San Polo—the bikes are favored by small businesses, logistics companies, and government agencies due to their reliability and extended battery life.

One of Dodai’s initial supporters was the Ethiopian Postal Service, which became an exclusive partner in 2023 even before public sales began. The postal service remains Dodai’s largest customer to date. “Our growth stems from our commitment to reliability and efficiency,” Sasaki shared in an interview, noting the ongoing challenges of regulatory changes, political stability, and supply chain issues in Africa. “Only long-term investors will find satisfaction in this landscape.”

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Dodai distinguishes itself by utilising lithium-ion batteries, which offer superior performance compared to the lead-acid batteries commonly used by local competitors. This choice has appealed to customers looking for longer battery life, faster charging, and improved overall performance. Sasaki noted, “We expect natural market segmentation. Delivery riders may prefer battery swapping, while commuters will likely choose fixed batteries. Our strategy will remain adaptable to effectively meet the needs of both groups.”

Despite new competition in the Ethiopian EV market this year, including the Chinese e-bike giant Yadea and smartphone manufacturer Transsion entering the electric mobility space, Sasaki remains confident.