Africa imports four times as many automotive products as it exports, with vehicle imports worth USD 52 billion in 2020, but exports worth only USD 13 billion.
However, some local auto entrepreneurs are making great strides to reverse this scenario.
Auto manufacturing in Africa is still in its infancy, but it is growing as more companies move closer to local customers. And it’s not just happening by chance. That’s a well thought out move. These manufacturers design vehicles that can tackle rugged terrain, withstand harsh climates, and serve diverse communities across the continent.
Commendably, these manufacturers work hard to meet local market demands while also gaining international recognition for their quality and innovation. They are attracting attention around the world and show that Africa is more than just a consumer of foreign cars.
According to Mordor Intelligence, several large economies such as South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are expected to post positive growth due to improved local production and increased focus on curbing imports.
Below are 8 cars made in Africa by African manufacturers
Laraki was founded in 1999 by Abdeslam Laraki, a Moroccan designer and entrepreneur who became wealthy by importing cars to Morocco in 1973.
Larakis is strictly a concept car, custom-made for each customer, and was recognized as some of the most expensive cars in the world in 2015.
We produced our first car in 2002. Laraki Frugra. The 2013 Laraki Epitome Concept is powered by a V8 engine, 1100 horsepower (RPM), and an estimated top speed of 175 mph and is priced at $2 million.
2. Birkinkers (South Africa)
Founded in 1982, this South African-based automotive company is one of the oldest in the industry. With a global presence spanning the United States, Japan, and Europe, Birkin Cars has built a reputation for manufacturing high quality classic he replicas. Some of the company’s standout products include the SS3 Street series and his CS3 Clubman series.
3. Wally’s Automobile (Tunisia)
Tunisia-based Wally’s Automobile was founded in 2006 by brothers Zied and Omar Giga. The company boasts the distinction of being the first local manufacturer in Africa and the Arab world to export vehicles to Europe. The company has a growing presence in several countries, and its vehicles are popular in markets such as Panama, Morocco, Spain and Qatar.
4.Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (Nigeria)
Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company is a prominent Nigerian automobile manufacturer based in Umudimu, Nnewi State. He was founded in 2007 by Nigerian-born entrepreneur Innocent Chukwuma and manufactures a wide range of vehicles including cars, buses and trucks. Innoson is a key player in Nigeria’s automotive industry and is known for its efforts to promote local manufacturing.
5. Keira Motors Corporation (Uganda)
Founded in 2014, Kiera Motors Corporation (KMC) is a vehicle manufacturing company established by the Government of Uganda and Makerere University to drive value addition in the country’s automotive industry. KMC’s vehicle lineup includes the innovative Kayyoola solar bus, the efficient Kiira EV Smack, and his Kiira EV POC with a well-stocked battery bank boasting a capacity of 40AH and 207V.
Founded in 2010, Mobius Motors specializes in designing, manufacturing and selling vehicles for the African mass market. The company uses simplified design concepts to produce efficient and inexpensive vehicles that can compete with imported cars that dominate East Africa’s car market.
7. Kantanka Automobiles (Ghana)
Kantanka Automobile is a Ghana-based automotive company that designs, manufactures, assembles and sells luxury vehicles. The company initially specialized in manufacturing auto parts, but in 1998 it shifted its focus to producing complete vehicles. We offer a wide range of models including Maser, K71, Onantefo, Omama Pickups, Omama Hardbody, and Amoa Anima.
Founded in 1967, SNVI is an Algerian company specializing in the production of trucks, buses and semi-trailers. The company exports products to several countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, and Libya. SNVI aims to return to its 1980s production capacity of 6,000 units per year.