Electric vehicles (EVs) are sparking conversations across the globe, and Nigeria is no exception. From rising fuel costs to the search for cleaner transportation, many Nigerians are beginning to wonder if EVs could be a real alternative to petrol and diesel vehicles.
But as with any new technology, misconceptions abound. These myths often discourage people from exploring EVs seriously, even when the facts paint a different picture. In this post, we’ll debunk 12 of the most common myths about EVs in Nigeria and reveal the truth behind the hype.
1. Myth: EVs can’t work in Nigeria because of poor electricity supply.
Fact: Nigeria’s power challenges are real, but they don’t automatically make EVs impractical. EV owners are not limited to the national grid. They can charge their cars using solar systems, inverters, or dedicated private charging hubs. Nigeria’s abundant sunshine actually makes solar-powered EV charging a natural solution. Several startups are already piloting solar mini-grids to support charging stations. Think about it: if Nigerians can power entire homes with solar panels, why not their cars?
2. Myth: EVs are too expensive for the average Nigerian.
Fact: At first glance, EVs seem costly, especially when compared to fairly used Tokunbo cars that dominate the Nigerian market. However, the total cost of ownership tells a different story. EVs have far fewer moving parts, no need for regular oil changes, and minimal servicing costs. Most importantly, charging an EV with electricity or solar is significantly cheaper than buying petrol at ₦600+ per litre. Over a few years, the savings can make EVs more economical than petrol cars. As global adoption grows, we’ll also see more affordable EV models entering Nigeria.
3. Myth: EVs don’t have enough range for Nigerian roads.
Fact: Many Nigerians imagine EVs dying in the middle of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. In reality, modern EVs travel between 250 km and 500 km on a single charge, which is more than enough for daily commutes in cities like Lagos, Abuja, or Port Harcourt, where most people drive less than 50 km per day. Yes, intercity travel will require charging points along highways, but for everyday use such as school runs, office commutes, or market trips, EVs are more than capable.
4. Myth: EVs are too fragile for Nigerian roads.
Fact: Nigeria’s rough road conditions are a genuine concern, but EVs are not as delicate as many assume. EVs have instant torque, strong suspension systems, and fewer mechanical parts that can break down. In fact, because they don’t have engines with belts, radiators, or gearboxes, EVs often face fewer breakdowns than petrol cars. Electric motorcycles and buses are already being tested in African cities with similar road challenges, proving EVs can handle tough terrains.
5. Myth: EVs have poor range for long journeys.
Fact: A common concern is that EVs can’t handle Nigeria’s long-distance travel needs. Modern EVs, like the Tesla Model 3, offer ranges of 400-500 km per charge, sufficient for most intercity trips. Even budget models like the Nissan Leaf provide 150-200 km, suitable for daily commutes. Strategic planning, such as charging at urban hubs or using portable solar chargers, makes long journeys feasible. As charging infrastructure grows, range anxiety will diminish.
6. Myth: There are no charging stations, so EVs are useless.
Fact: It’s true that Nigeria’s public charging network is still limited, but that doesn’t make EVs useless. Most EV owners worldwide charge at home or at work. Overnight charging means you start each day with a “full tank.” In Nigeria, solar mini-grids and private charging hubs are emerging, especially in urban centres. Just like mobile phone towers expanded quickly when GSM arrived, charging stations will follow demand. The lack of infrastructure today is a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity for entrepreneurs.
7. Myth: It takes forever to charge an EV.
Fact: Charging time depends on the type of charger. A standard household outlet may take several hours, but fast chargers can power an EV up to 80% in under an hour. For most Nigerians, this isn’t a problem. Just like charging your phone overnight, you can charge your car while you sleep. For drivers who need quick top-ups during the day, fast charging stations are already being tested in parts of Africa. The truth is, EV charging can be as convenient as refueling, if not more so.
8. Myth: EVs can’t handle flooding and heavy rains.
Fact: Nigerians often worry about water-damaged electronics, but EVs are not built like smartphones. Their batteries and electric motors are tightly sealed and rigorously tested for water resistance. In fact, many EVs have higher water fording capabilities than petrol cars, meaning they can handle deeper floodwaters. Considering the frequent flooding in cities like Lagos, EV manufacturers design vehicles with safety in mind, ensuring they remain reliable even in wet conditions.
9. Myth: EV batteries will die quickly in Nigeria’s hot climate.
Fact: One of the biggest misconceptions is that EV batteries can’t survive in hot countries like Nigeria. Modern EVs are equipped with Battery Management Systems (BMS) that regulate temperature, ensuring safety and efficiency in both cold and hot climates. Globally, EVs operate in the deserts of the Middle East, where temperatures exceed 45°C, hotter than most Nigerian cities. With proper use, EV batteries can last 8–15 years, far longer than many Nigerians even keep their cars.
10. Myth: There’s No Local Expertise to Maintain EVs
Fact: Concerns about a lack of skilled technicians for EV maintenance in Nigeria are common. However, EVs require less maintenance than traditional vehicles due to fewer moving parts: no radiators, fuel pumps, or exhaust systems. Basic repairs, like tire or brake servicing, are similar to conventional vehicles and can be handled by local mechanics. Training programs by companies like Innoson and international partnerships are building local expertise for EV-specific repairs.
11. Myth: EVs Are Not Environmentally Friendly
Fact: Skeptics claim EVs aren’t green due to battery production and electricity generation concerns. While battery manufacturing has an environmental footprint, EVs’ lifecycle emissions are far lower than fossil fuel vehicles. In Nigeria, where air pollution from generators and vehicles is rampant, EVs powered by solar energy can significantly reduce carbon emissions. Advances in battery recycling and cleaner production methods further enhance EVs’ environmental benefits.
12. Myth: EVs Are Slow and Lack Power
Fact: Some believe EVs are underpowered compared to petrol vehicles. On the contrary, EVs deliver instant torque, providing rapid acceleration. Models like the Tesla Model S can outperform many sports cars, with 0-100 km/h times under 4 seconds. Even affordable EVs, like the MG ZS EV, offer smooth and responsive performance suitable for Nigeria’s traffic conditions, debunking the myth of sluggishness.
Conclusion
The myths surrounding EVs in Nigeria are powerful, but they’re not grounded in facts. EVs are not just a global fad. They’re practical, cost-saving, and increasingly relevant for Nigerians. The transition won’t happen overnight, but with growing interest, private investment, and government support, Nigeria has the potential to leapfrog into the future of mobility.
The bottom line is that EVs are not only possible in Nigeria, they are inevitable. From navigating Lagos traffic to powering rural commutes with solar energy, EVs are a practical solution for Nigeria’s transport future. As infrastructure improves and misconceptions fade, now is the time for Nigerians to embrace electric mobility and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
