Africa’s Car Manufacturers: For decades, African roads have been dominated by foreign car brands. This reliance on imported vehicles from Europe, Asia, and America reflects the continent’s historical dependence on external markets to meet its transportation needs. Statistics paint a clear picture: Africa imports four times more automotive products than it exports, with a staggering trade deficit of US$39 billion in 2020 (US$52 billion imports vs. US$13 billion exports).
However, a new wave of African car manufacturers is emerging, determined to change the narrative. This “made in Africa” movement is taking root, with local companies developing a growing presence to serve their communities directly. These manufacturers aren’t just replicating existing models; they’re strategically designing vehicles built to tackle Africa’s unique challenges. Rugged terrains, harsh climates, and diverse needs across the continent are all being taken into account.
The success of these African car manufacturers extends beyond local markets. Their commitment to quality and innovation is gaining international recognition, showcasing Africa’s potential as a producer, not just a consumer, of automobiles. Industry analysts like Mordor Intelligence predict significant growth in car manufacturing for key African countries like South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, fueled by initiatives to boost local production and reduce reliance on imports.
This shift signals a bright future for the African automotive industry. This article highlights eight impressive examples of Cars Made in Africa by African Manufacturers.
See below:
1. Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (Nigeria)
Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company is a prominent Nigerian automobile manufacturer based in Umudim, Nnewi. Founded in 2007 by Nigerian born entrepreneur, Innocent Chukwuma, it produces a wide range of vehicles, including cars, buses, and trucks. Innoson is a significant player in Nigeria’s automotive industry and has gained recognition for its efforts to promote local manufacturing.
2.Birkin Cars (South Africa)
Established in 1982, this South African-based automobile company stands as one of the industry’s oldest players. With a global presence spanning the United States, Japan, and Europe, Birkin Cars has built a reputation for crafting high-quality classic reproductions. Among their standout offerings are the SS3 Street Series and the CS3 Clubman Series.
3. Kiira Motors Corporation (Uganda)
Founded in 2014, Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) is an Automotive Manufacturing Company incorporated by the Government of Uganda and Makerere University to champion value addition in the country’s auto industry. KMC’s vehicle lineup includes the innovative Kayyoola Solar Bus, the efficient Kiira EV Smack, and the Kiira EV POC, equipped with a substantial battery bank boasting a capacity of 40AH and 207V.
4. Mobius Motors (Kenya)
Established in 2010, Mobius Motors specializes in designing, manufacturing, and selling vehicles tailored for the African mass market. The company uses simplified design concepts to produce efficient and cheap vehicles that can compete with imported vehicles that dominate the East African automotive market.
5. SNVI (Algeria)
Established in 1967, SNVI is an Algerian firm specializing in the manufacturing of trucks, buses, and semi-trailers. The company exports its products to several nations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, and Libya. SNVI aspires to return to its 1980s production capacity of 6,000 vehicles annually.
6. Wallys Automobile (Tunisia)
Wallys Automobile, based in Tunisia, was founded by brothers Zied and Omar Guiga in 2006. It proudly stands as the first local manufacturer in Africa and the Arab world to export its vehicles to Europe. The company has experienced a growing presence in several countries, with its vehicles gaining popularity in markets such as Panama, Morocco, Spain, and Qatar.
7. Laraki (Morocco)
Laraki was established in 1999 by Abdesslam Laraki, a Moroccan designer and entrepreneur who became wealthy by importing cars in Morocco in 1973.
Larakis are strictly concept cars, custom-built for each customer, and gained recognition as some of the world’s most expensive cars in 2015.
In 2002, it produced the first car; Laraki Fulgura. Its 2013 Laraki Epitome Concept which has a V8 engine, 1100 Horsepower (RPM), and a top speed that is estimated at 175 mph, is sold for $2,000,000.
8. Kantanka Automobile (Ghana)
Kantanka Automobile is a Ghanaian-based automotive company that designs, manufactures, assembles and sells luxury cars. The company initially specialized in manufacturing car components but shifted its focus to producing complete vehicles in 1998. They offer a diverse range of models, including Mehsah, K71, Onantefo, Omama Pickup, Omama Hard Body, and Amoanimaah.
