Tunisia’s Bako Motors Drives Electric Vehicle Innovation with Solar Power
Tunisia is emerging as a key player in Africa’s rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market, projected to reach $4.2 billion by 2030 1. Leading this charge is Bako Motors, a Tunisian startup that is integrating solar power directly into its EV designs, offering a unique solution for sustainable transportation.
Bako Motors and the Rise of Solar-Powered EVs
Founded in 2021, Bako Motors initially focused on three-wheeled cargo vehicles before expanding to four-wheeled models. The company’s vehicles, including the B-Van and the Bee, are equipped with solar panels on their roofs, supplementing battery power and reducing reliance on the electrical grid 1. Although still utilizing lithium batteries and offering plug-in charging options, the solar panels provide a significant source of free energy.
The B-Van: A Commercial Solution
The B-Van, designed for logistics and last-mile delivery, can carry up to 400 kilograms (882 pounds) and offers a range of 100 to 300 kilometers (62 to 186 miles) on a single charge 1. Bako Motors estimates that the solar panels can provide enough energy for approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) of daily driving, equating to around 17,000 kilometers (10,563 miles) per year 1. The B-Van is priced starting at 24,990 Tunisian dinar (approximately $8,500) 1.
The Bee: An Urban Commuter
The Bee is a smaller, two-seat vehicle designed for daily in-city trips. It has a range of 70 to 120 kilometers (44 to 75 miles) and a maximum speed of 45 kilometers per hour (27 mph) 1. The Bee starts at 18,264 Tunisian dinar (approximately $6,200) 1.
Expanding Production and Exports
Currently, Bako Motors has produced 100 vehicles, but the company plans to scale up production and increase exports in the coming year 1. Boubaker Siala, founder and CEO of Bako Motors, states that the solar cells provide over 50% of the vehicles’ energy needs 1.
The Broader Context of Energy Efficiency and EV Adoption
Bako Motors’ approach aligns with broader trends in advancing energy efficiency and the adoption of electric vehicles. Innovations in quick-charging technology for electric engineering vehicles, such as delivery trucks and construction machinery, are also emerging, reducing the need for extensive public charging infrastructure 2. Companies like Masdar are also playing a key role in supporting the energy transition globally, with projects in over 40 countries 3. The Middle East, with its high solar potential, is increasingly becoming a focus for renewable energy investments and EV development 4.