Seychelles is steering towards a greener future, with increasing interest in electric vehicles (EVs) over traditional internal combustion engine cars. This report explores the surge in EV popularity, figures from the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA), the most favored models, and the Seychellois government's initiatives to promote sustainable transportation.
Seychelles' Electric Vehicle Landscape
As of the end of 2022, Seychelles boasts a total of 365 registered all-electric vehicles, signifying a growing preference for EVs. Notably, 57 new registrations occurred in 2022 and 71 in 2021. The Hyundai Kona Electric emerges as the top choice among Seychellois drivers.
Hyundai Kona Electric: A Popular Choice
PMC Auto, an official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in Seychelles, confirms the rising popularity of electric cars, with the Hyundai Kona Electric leading the charge. Jayant Mayadas, a consultant at PMC Auto, highlights the advantages of EVs for small island nations like Seychelles, emphasizing the ample range for local driving needs.
Range and Practicality
The latest Hyundai Kona boasts an impressive 484 km range on a full charge. Given Seychelles' compact size, this range allows drivers to cover the entire coastal perimeter of Mahe Island on one charge, making EVs a practical and sustainable choice.
Electric Motion: Driving Interest in EVs
Electric Motion, led by Ukrainian Viktor Honchar, has witnessed a surge in interest since introducing electric cars to Seychelles. Honchar believes Seychelles is ready for a fully electric mobility transition, considering the country's size and the feasibility of home charging, negating the need for extensive infrastructure.
Incentives and Government Initiatives
While the average price of EVs tends to be higher than internal combustion engine cars, the Seychelles government has implemented incentives to encourage EV adoption. For instance, purchasing an EV with a cylinder capacity between 1,000cc and 1,600cc incurs a lower excise tax (10%), 15% VAT, and no environmental levy, making EVs more financially appealing.
Seychelles' Path to Full Electric Mobility
Seychelles has embarked on a journey to achieve full electric mobility, focusing on infrastructure development and financial schemes to make EVs more accessible. Plans include establishing charging stations and implementing extended producer responsibility for EV battery collection.
Sustainability Commitment
The government's commitment to sustainability aligns with Seychelles' ambition to transition to a fully electric fleet. Financial schemes and supportive policies demonstrate a dedication to reducing the carbon footprint in the transportation sector.
Conclusion
Seychelles' shift towards electric vehicles signifies a change in transportation preferences and a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. With growing registrations, popular models like the Hyundai Kona Electric, and government initiatives in place, Seychelles is on the road to a green automotive revolution, paving the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation landscape.
