Africa’s Electric Vehicle Push Masks Dependence on Chinese Kits and Risks U.S. Competitive Edge

Across Africa, the narrative of a green revolution powered by electric vehicles is gaining traction—championed by Nigerian and Kenyan companies assembling electric vans locally. But a closer look reveals an uneasy dependence on Chinese-made kits, raising critical questions about the continent’s industrial autonomy and the broader implications for American economic and national security. Is Local Assembly Merely a Facade for Foreign Control? Saglev in Nigeria proudly assembles 18-seater electric vans using imported components from Chinese automaker Dongfeng Motor Corp, while Kenya’s Rideence Africa partners with local assemblers to build EV taxis from kits supplied by Jiangsu Joylong Automobile and Beijing...