This was disclosed by Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, during a courtesy visit to Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, in his office.

Emphasising the need for strengthened collaboration between China and Nigeria, he explained the importance of harnessing the potential of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector by establishing electric vehicle factories in Nigeria.

Dunchai also spoke on Nigeria’s position in its foreign policy, stating that the country is blessed with immense natural resources.

He recalled the high-level discussion between both countries’ leaders during President Tinubu’s visit to China, where they both agreed to elevate bilateral relations to ensure a strategic partnership that creates opportunities for the countries.

According to a statement by the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Sunday, China plans to establish electric vehicle factories in Nigeria.

Alake stated that Nigeria is open to investment from serious investors, as investment in the nation’s mining industry is now focused on adding value to the locality. He urged the ambassador to encourage Chinese investors to commit to a full-cycle investment, which covers from extraction to processing in Nigeria.

Alake also stressed Nigeria’s prioritisation of local processing to ensure the country’s development. While noting the country’s abundance of lithium, he highlighted the plan to reduce reliance on fossil fuels through the production of electric vehicles.

Alake appreciated China’s long relationship with Nigeria while acknowledging the law-abiding manner of Chinese firms as they abide by Nigeria’s rules and regulations.

However, he raised concerns over the actions of some Chinese nationals tarnishing the image of China.

He noted that appropriate legal actions have been taken against such defiance while urging the Chinese government to ensure justice is served.

The company will integrate electric scooters for on-demand deliveries within a 5-kilometre radius, ideal for urban environments.

These vehicles will significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with short-distance logistics while maintaining fast and efficient delivery times.

This initiative positions Picup at the forefront of sustainable logistics, demonstrating its commitment to reducing environmental impact while continuing to deliver cutting-edge, scalable solutions for businesses.

Recognised for its innovative approach to logistics, the last-mile delivery and technology company is advancing its mission to address global climate challenges through a bold integration of EVs into its delivery operations.

The move reflects Picup’s determination to pioneer eco-conscious practices in South Africa’s logistics sector while maintaining the efficiency and reliability it is known for.

Antonio Bruni, CEO of Picup, underscores the significance of this strategy: “Over the past two years, our EV pilots have given us critical insights into what it takes to scale a sustainable electric fleet.”

“By prioritising high-quality bikes, advanced batteries, and dependable charging infrastructure, we’re ready to bring this vision to life. Our customers and the public will soon see Picup electric vehicles and scooters on the road, a testament to our commitment to greener, smarter logistics,” he explains.

Bruni says this strategy not only reduces our carbon footprint but also empowers our riders by providing them with reliable, modern transportation.

“It’s about delivering excellence in every aspect – from the environment to our people to the businesses we serve.”

Laying the groundwork through EV pilots

Picup’s EV journey began two years ago with the piloting of electric scooters from its head office in Cape Town. These trials provided valuable insights, enabling the company to select high-quality electric bikes.

“It also helped us to invest in enhanced battery technology, prioritising long-lasting batteries to ensure optimal uptime to cover sufficient range and minimal charging interruptions. We have also developed charging infrastructure, strategically placing charging points to support fleet operations and rider efficiency. This includes charging facilities at our client sites,” says Bruni.

These pilots equipped Picup with the expertise needed to deploy EV solutions countrywide at scale while maintaining exceptional service quality.

Innovating with MellowVans for milk-run deliveries

Picup is also piloting an exciting partnership with MellowVans, a South African-designed and manufactured electric vehicle tailored for urban deliveries.

These compact, energy-efficient vehicles are being tested for milk-run deliveries, where multiple orders are consolidated along a single route, optimising efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

“Working with Picup showcases the real-world potential of electric vehicles in logistics,” said Neil du Preez, founder of MellowVans. “Together, we’re crafting sustainable and efficient delivery solutions for South African cities.”

Empowering riders and driving sustainability

In addition to its environmental focus, Picup’s EV strategy aims to enhance the delivery experience for its riders.

By equipping them with safe, reliable, and efficient vehicles, the company ensures smoother operations while promoting safety and satisfaction on the road.

By adopting electric scooters, piloting MellowVans, and leveraging its operational expertise, Picup exemplifies how sustainability and efficiency can drive the future of delivery services.

This is another step in Xiaomi’s strategy to expand beyond its core smartphone operations and gain ground in the EV market.

According to sources, construction on the second phase of the Xiaomi Intelligent Manufacturing Industrial Base in Beijing is progressing swiftly, with an expected completion date of 15 June 2025. 

The project, located in Beijing’s Yizhuang New Town—a hub for high-tech industries—will see workers pushing to meet deadlines as they work overtime to accelerate the build. 

Once finished, the expansion will boost Xiaomi’s production capacity, further strengthening its push in China’s EV sector.

The first phase of this facility, which already operates in the same area, has enabled Xiaomi to manufacture its first EV, the SU7 sedan, which launched last December. The vehicle has quickly gained traction, with the company reporting sales of 70,000 units by the end of September, just six months after deliveries commenced in March.

Xiaomi’s venture into the electric vehicle market, initially announced in 2021, is part of the company’s goal to diversify its product offerings. The rapid sales of the SU7 ascertain Xiaomi’s ability to translate its expertise in consumer electronics to the automotive industry. 

The completion of the second phase of its factory will not just increase production but also enhance the technological capabilities of the facility, including its automated manufacturing processes.

With its Electric Vehicle factory projected to reach a total annual production capacity of 300,000 vehicles following the expansion, Xiaomi is aiming for long-term growth in the EV market. 

While the company has yet to comment on this latest development, the progress made thus far shows its focus on becoming a big name in electric vehicles, complementing its established success in smartphones.

Amperstand’s approach to electrifying Africa’s millions of motorcycles have gained the interest of several investors including AHL Venture Partners, an Africa-focused venture fund, and Everstrong Capital, an infrastructure investor constructing the Usahihi toll road between Nairobi and Mombasa, who participated in this round. 

Beyond Capital Ventures has also reinvested in a follow-up to its Series A equity commitment.

These additional investments, ahead of Ampersand’s Series B, will enable the company to continue its expansion in East Africa where 100 million people a day use motorcycle taxi or delivery services, called ‘boda bodas’. 

The company’s electric motorcycles are 45% cheaper to run than the petrol alternatives and produce at least 75% less emissions, making them a compelling alternative.

Josh Whale, CEO, Ampersand, said: “This latest funding is a testament to the strong investor confidence in our business model as we continue to scale and innovate within the African e-mobility sector. With continued urbanisation, our mission to electrify transport, cut carbon emissions and drive clean economic prosperity is more crucial than ever.

“This additional investment will accelerate the rollout of our EV energy technology and infrastructure to the mass market, bringing us closer to our goal of deploying 5 million electric motorcycles by 2033.

“As we look ahead to our upcoming Series B, we remain committed to reshaping how Africa moves by delivering affordable, low-carbon transport solutions that also drive green jobs and economic growth across the continent.”

Ampersand’s heavy duty commercial motorcycle fleet already covers 3,000,000 km per week in Kigali and Nairobi. Its AI-enabled smart battery technology allows drivers to seamlessly exchange their batteries within minutes at its network of ‘swap stations’, handling around 75,000 swaps every week.

Sebastian McKinlay, head of New Investments, AHL Venture Partners, commented: “Ampersand’s performance shows the transformative power of innovative business models in addressing environmental challenges and economic opportunities simultaneously – a perfect example of the ‘green discount’ of transitioning to a low carbon economy whilst saving customers money.

“Ampersand’s work in electrifying one of the most common forms of transportation in East Africa is proving to be a game-changer and will displace billions of dollars of fuel imports to East Africa each year.  We are pleased to be supporting Josh, Alp and the whole team who have executed their strategy admirably, and thrilled to support Ampersand’s journey to expand their operations and continue to lead the way in sustainable transportation.”

Eva Yazhari, managing partner, Beyond Capital Ventures, said: “Ampersand’s comprehensive approach to e-mobility in Africa exemplifies exactly the type of highly scalable solution Beyond Capital Ventures seeks to invest in. Among the e-mobility companies we evaluated, Ampersand stood out for its robust technology, strong market traction, and clear vision for transforming transportation networks across the continent. 

“We view Ampersand as a climate and infrastructure play and by backing Ampersand, BCV’s primary goal is to contribute to increased economic development and the growth of capital markets in the region.

“This investment has the potential to deliver substantial environmental benefits, improve livelihoods for thousands of drivers, and demonstrate the incredible opportunity to invest in ventures led by conscious leaders in emerging markets. In addition to being a strong portfolio contributor, I believe that Ampersand’s success will attract further investment to Africa, something we care deeply about at BCV.”

Phil Dyk, founder and managing partner, Everstrong Capital, said: “We chose to be part of Ampersand’s growth capital because we found that commercial boda boda riders wanted Ampersand’s bikes for their strength, design and battery swapping convenience — not to mention that Ampersand is an early entrant to the electric motorcycle markets in Rwanda and Kenya.”

Capital raised from the Series A round has been used to ramp up electric motorcycle and battery production, expand the company’s swap station network, and continue R&D on battery technology and software. This latest funding round brings the total raised over the last 12 months to $14 million in equity and $7.5 million in debt.

Egoras expressed in a statement its commitment to transitioning Africans from fossil fuels to sustainable energy with the APEX 28 EV.

According to the company, the electric vehicle, manufactured at Egoras’ factory in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, represents a significant step forward to revolutionise and promote clean energy within the transport sector.  

The Chief Executive Officer of Egoras Technology, Ugoji Harry stated, “The APEX 28 Electric Vehicle embodies our commitment to innovation and sustainability. 

“We believe this homegrown solution will play a crucial role in reshaping the future of transportation in Africa, ” he said. 

He explained that the APEX 28 has certain features that make it stand out, such as blockchain integration, sensors, and cameras.

According to him, the EV boasts a sophisticated and luxurious design, catering to discerning drivers who value both style and sustainability.

He stated, “Powered by the Ego Chain blockchain, the APEX 28 offers a unique ownership experience. Drivers can potentially earn $EGAX tokens for using their vehicles, creating a novel incentive for eco-conscious consumers.

“Equipped with ultra-wideband sensors and cameras, the APEX 28 prioritizes driver safety. These advanced features monitor traffic conditions and provide real-time assistance, enhancing the driving experience,” the CEO noted. 

Last year the company launched a gas-powered tricycle known as Egoras Dual-Fuel Tricycle.

The tricycle offered a cost-effective solution for both urban and rural areas, while also contributing to a greener environment.

The Series A round for Roam was led by Equator Africa, and includes investments from known players like At One Ventures, TES Ventures, and the US government’s DFC.

This investment will facilitate Roam’s expansion in the production of its locally designed and manufactured electric motorcycles and buses. 

The company aims to disrupt the market with innovative, Africa-specific solutions, providing greater flexibility and affordability compared to traditional petrol options.

Roam takes pride in its unique approach, prioritizing local engineering and design. This ensures vehicles like the Roam Air motorcycle and Roam Rapid bus are both cost-effective and also cater to the specific needs and infrastructure of East African countries.

Beyond environmental benefits, the mobility company empowers communities by creating jobs, stimulating skills development, and bringing about flexible ownership options for riders. 

The “Roam Hub” stations are designed to offer a range of comprehensive support services to users. In addition to providing battery-swapping facilities, these stations also offer a host of other services that can make your life easier. 

From tyre inflation to minor repairs and maintenance, the Roam Hub stations are a one-stop shop for all electric vehicle needs. With convenient locations and user-friendly interfaces, these stations are quickly becoming a popular choice for EV owners who are looking for reliable and efficient charging solutions.

The funding fuels Roam’s expansion plans, including scaling up production at its new 10,000 sqm facility, “Roam Park.” Investments will also go towards research, cost efficiencies, and streamlining supply chains. 

The ultimate goal is to transition Africa’s transport sector to affordable and effective electric vehicles, leveraging local resources and infrastructure.

Roam has already mitigated over 120,000 tonnes of carbon emissions, reiterating its focus on sustainable transportation solutions. With this funding, the company targets making an even greater impact, enhancing the African economy. 

Beyond the ordinary, Android aims to make your time on the road safer, more connected, and thoroughly enjoyable.

For electric vehicle enthusiasts, Android is introducing real-time battery information sharing with Google Maps, initially debuting on the Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning. This integration simplifies EV driving by providing estimated battery levels upon reaching your destination, suggesting optimal charging stops, and estimating charging durations based on your vehicle. Android envisions a seamless journey for electric vehicle owners, enhancing the convenience of planning and executing trips.

For cars with Google built-in, trip planning gets a boost. Users can seamlessly send their planned trips from Google Maps on their Android or iOS phones directly to their cars, bridging the gap between planning and navigating effortlessly.

Android ensures that your time in the car is not just about transportation but also about staying connected, informed, and entertained. The Chrome browser is now rolling out in beta to select Polestar and Volvo cars, promising expanded availability later in the year. This feature allows users to shop or access saved bookmarks while parked.

In response to popular demand, The Weather Channel app is now accessible for cars with Google built-in, providing real-time updates on changing weather conditions. Additionally, entertainment for all ages is enriched with the inclusion of shows from PBS KIDS and Crunchyroll in select cars with Google built-in.

Android is focused on expanding its partnerships with brands and developers to bring more helpful apps and services to your car. Android Auto’s compatibility with nearly every major car brand and its presence in over 200 million cars on the road ensures a widespread integration of the best phone experiences into vehicles.

Major brands like Nissan, Ford, and Lincoln are set to roll out cars with Google built-in this year, while Porsche is expected to join in the future. The evolution of digital car keys is also underway, with select Volvo cars soon to receive this feature, extending to more phone and car brands in the future. This digital car key allows users to unlock, lock, and start their cars with supported Android phones, while also securely sharing keys with friends and family on both iOS and Android devices.

Whether you are at CES to experience demos firsthand or exploring updates online, Android’s efforts to enhance the driving experience is seen in the latest features on the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Polestar 3. Witness the future of driving by checking out these updates on the Android Auto and cars with Google built-in websites or a nearby vehicle showroom. Android is making every journey worthwhile.

In his keynote address, at the opening ceremony of a 5-Day training for Information, New Media and Protocol staff of the Agency, drawn from the Headquarters and Institutes, on New Media and Protocol Strategies for a Modern Government Agency in the 21st century, held on Monday at the Exclusive Serene Hotel, Wuye, Abuja, Mr. Halilu said that investing in staff training and development was vital for the success of any organization.

According to him, “We are building a new NASENI where one of the overarching goals is to have well trained employees with knowledge and requisite technical, vocational and management skills required for the Agency’s growth and technology advancement.

“He said this reorientation would equip us to bring to fruition the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration and also the Eight Priority Areas of the administration.”

Buttressing the mandate of the Agency, the NASENI boss noted that the Agency’s mission is to drive Nigeria’s rapid industrialization through the new three Cs of Collaboration, Creation and Commercialization.

He added that in the past four months since he took over the leadership of NASENI, the Agency has embarked on new partnerships and collaborations aimed at turning NASENI’s over 150 scientific and technological prototypes, products and intellectual properties rights (IPR) into finished products.

“We have signed multibillion dollars new Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) and revived old ones with international technical partners to establish coal-based fertilizer plant, Lithium processing and Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant,  Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for Agric afforestation, smart solar irrigation, tractor repairs and crop traceability for food security,” he further explained.

He said that the 5-Day intensive training programme will enable information and Protocol staff of the Agency to catch-up with the current trends and international standards required for Mastering the Intricacies of New Media and Protocol Strategies that would take the Agency to greater heights.

“We have assembled about forty-one (41) staff responsible for information and protocol activities from our Headquarters and Institutes to benefit from this training. This training will upskill the crop of staff to communicate our new strategy and partnerships to different publics”, he stated.

He said that he was confident that by the end of the training, the staff of Information, Protocol and New Media Unit would be equipped with requisite skills to be at par with contemporaries in the public and private sectors as well as those in international sphere.

The Coordinating Director, Engineering Infrastructure, Prof. Bagudu Dansheu Gwadangaji who was ably represented by Engr. Dr. Olayode Olasupo urged the Information Staff to adapt to new media and protocol strategies to ensure the continued success and relevance of NASENI.

Encouraging the participants, he said, “Your presence at this training signifies not only personal and professional growth but also a collective effort to enhance our capabilities as a forward-thinking government agency.”

“I encourage you to actively engage in the sessions, collaborate with your peers, and absorb the wealth of knowledge that this training has to offer. The insights gained here will understandably contribute to your skills, allowing you to make valuable contributions to our ICT initiatives, he said.

Also, the Coordinating Director, Science Infrastructure, Prof Umar Ibrahim Gaya stated that the theme of the training was timely as it will equip participants with necessary skills and tools to combat fake news which can affect organizations negatively.

“When you talk about NASENI, so many things come to mind. As an Agency with first line charge from the Federation Account, there is likely to be fake news out there about us. Therefore, this training will help equip the participants to separate information from misinformation and misrepresentation. We hope your deliberations will help the EVC/CEO and Management to achieve the Agency’s mandate. Prof. Gaya added.

In his welcome address, the Director of Information, Protocol and New Media Unit, Mr. Segun Ayeoyenikan commended the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Halilu for making staff motivation, development and productivity top priorities in his agenda since he assumed the position as EVC/CEO barely four Months ago.

He said in an era defined by rapid advancement, the training was a crucial step towards navigating the complexities of digital age, adding that the new slogan in the media profession and business world is “You either communicate or you are easily forgotten, because of the complexities or sophistication of the society wherein we live today”

Throwing more light on the training, he said the training for the Communication and Media arm of the Agency, the first of its kind in 33 years, was indeed timely with the wave of reforms currently sweeping across the Agency with the coming on board of a Technopreneur, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu.

“The Information, New Media and Protocol Department play a critical role of projecting the image, products, mission and vision of the Agency amongst its technology end-users and critical stakeholders”, he said.

“The EVC/CEO has committed to building a 21st century institution built on the 3 core principles of Collaboration, Creation and Commercialization guided by a strategic corporate plan which ensures that NASENI’s human and material resources are optimally harnessed with a view to achieving the Federal Government’s Industrialization drive.

While welcoming the participants to the training, he pointed out that the training marked the beginning of a journey towards an enhanced popularization of digital skills communication and knowledge sharing within the NASENI Headquarters and Institutes’ Information and Protocol, more effectively.

Pointing out that the knowledge acquired from this training promised to reposition NASENI into one of the foremost agencies of the Federal Government, he called on all the participants to see the training as a call to duty and to ensure use of the opportunity and strive for excellence.

Experts have agreed that the future of transport would be driven by technology through electric vehicles.

In 2021, GIG Logistics unveiled its electric vehicle in Lagos. Its sister company is currently in talks with the Lagos State Government to bring in EVs.

Now, Oando Plc. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, to introduce electric mass transit buses.

In a statement obtained by TechEconomy,  Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director, LAMATA, said Oando Clean Energy approached them with a comprehensive solution that went beyond electric mass transit buses to include supporting infrastructure.

She added, “this was key for us, as the full remit of an EV support ecosystem is the only way to achieve success. 

“This initiative will not only accelerate the government’s transportation agenda but will also positively impact the health of Lagosians and the environment.

“The Oando brand comes with know-how and experience, and we are relying on this to successfully move from MoU signing to actual implementation that will in the medium to long term benefit over 22 million Lagos commuters. 

We look forward to a very robust and fruitful partnership.

“The initiative reinforces the importance of Public-Private Partnership, PPP, enabling the continent to actualize its industrialization goals.

Across Africa, the PPP model has become increasingly critical as both a funding and operational mechanism for social and economic infrastructure. 

“It’s a well-known fact that public infrastructure and service needs exceed the capability of Government budgets. This is true in virtually every area of public life across the world, from highways to waterworks. 

“It is for this reason and more that Public Private Partnerships, PPP, are increasingly relied on to enhance the abilities of Governments in addressing pressing public needs and improving the overall quality of life for her citizens.”

According to Adewale Tinubu, Chairman, Oando Clean Energy, Oando Clean Energy was born out of a need to curate the best energy mix to propel Nigeria and indeed Africa, to its full potential. 

He said as a company, Oando has always championed Public-Private Partnerships as fundamental to Nigeria’s industrialization. 

“Through the signing of this MoU, we are revolutionizing the landscape of mobility by pioneering e-mobility in Lagos.

“Furthermore, we remain dedicated to achieving our national commitment to net-zero by 2060, ending energy deficiencies and further propelling the country to an industrialized phase through decentralized and sustainable energy systems.

“We are excited to be embarking on this journey with Lagos State and must commend their foresight and willingness to forge a template for others to follow. 

“It’s easy to be perturbed by the perceived challenges that come with the mega-city status tag, but by taking this bold step, Lagos is showing the continent what is, indeed, possible and giving other cities the impetus to redefine today how to build a public transport system for the future.”