Bako Motors: Pioneering Solar-Powered Electric Vehicles in Tunisia

Bako Motors, a Tunisian startup founded in 2021, is making strides in Africa's burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, projected to reach $4.2 billion by 2030. The company is distinguishing itself by integrating solar panels into its vehicles, allowing them to harness Tunisia's abundant sunshine as a supplementary energy source. This innovation aims to alleviate reliance on grid electricity, which is often derived from a mix of renewable and fossil fuels. Bako Motors currently produces two models: the B-Van, designed for logistics with a cargo capacity of 400 kilograms (882 pounds) and a range of 100 to 300 kilometers (62 to 186 miles), and the Bee, a compact two-seater with a range of 70 to 120 kilometers (44 to 75 miles).

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Bako Motors emphasizes local production, sourcing over 40% of its vehicle parts domestically, including lithium-iron-phosphate batteries and steel. This approach not only reduces costs but also creates jobs within Tunisia. Khaled Habaieb, COO of Bako Motors, highlights the importance of local manufacturing in addressing the unique mobility needs of African countries, which vary significantly in transportation modes.

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While other companies like BasiGo and Spiro are established players in Africa's conventional e-mobility sector, Bako Motors aims to fill a niche with its solar-powered vehicles. The startup plans to scale up production, with a new factory expected to open by the end of 2026, targeting an annual output of up to 8,000 vehicles for markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Boubaker Siala, founder and CEO, notes that the addressable market in Africa is approximately 1 million vehicles per year, with Bako Motors aiming for a 5 to 10% share.

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Bob Wesonga, an operations and research associate for the Africa E-Mobility Alliance, underscores the significance of Bako Motors' solar integration in combating range anxiety, a major barrier to EV adoption. By extending the driving range of vehicles, Bako Motors enhances consumer confidence in choosing electric options. Wesonga points out that localized designs can better address infrastructure challenges, such as road quality, further supporting the viability of EVs in diverse African contexts.

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Despite its innovative approach, Bako Motors faces competition from international startups like Aptera Motors, which offer more extensive solar coverage but at higher price points. The challenge remains for Bako Motors to maintain affordability while scaling operations and meeting the diverse transportation needs across the continent.

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• “The solar cells provide us with more than 50% of our needs,” — Boubaker Siala, Founder and CEO of Bako Motors

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• “It’s a really good concept because it helps to extend the range of your EV,” — Bob Wesonga, Operations and Research Associate, Africa E-Mobility Alliance

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• “We have to prepare ourselves for this transition (and) offer affordable and good products for the African citizen.” — Boubaker Siala, Founder and CEO of Bako Motors

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Bako Motors is positioned to play a pivotal role in the evolution of electric mobility in Africa, leveraging local resources and innovative technology to meet the continent's unique transportation challenges.

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