Morocco has entered the ranks of electric car manufacturing countries, achieving a production capacity of 40,000 electric vehicles annually, according to Moroccan Minister of Industry Ryad Mezzour, positioning it to compete on the international stage. This follows Morocco's prior success in exporting 700,000 conventional fuel-powered vehicles annually.
In September, Morocco announced the launch of its first locally manufactured hybrid vehicle for sale, just two months after beginning production. This vehicle, which combines a fuel engine and an electric motor, is being produced in the city of Tangier, marking a historic milestone for the country.
An economic analyst emphasized the importance of leveraging Morocco's previous experience in car manufacturing to build a strong foundation for the electric vehicle industry.
Morocco's journey in electric vehicle production began in June 2020, when it started manufacturing its first electric car. In December of the same year, the country introduced its first locally produced electric vehicle charging station.
Hybrid Vehicles
In July, Morocco announced the production of its first hybrid vehicle in Tangier, the first of its kind in the country. Hybrid vehicles use more than one source of power, typically combining a conventional fuel engine (either gasoline or diesel) with an electric motor.
Minister of Industry Ryad Mezzour, in a post from the Ministry of Industry on the platform X, stated that the country plans to manufacture 200 hybrid cars daily, targeting both the domestic and European markets. He described this move as "crucial for the country’s automotive industry," predicting strong demand as Morocco aims to expand into multiple markets.
Mezzour added, "With this new car, Morocco continues its transition towards electric and hybrid mobility, making carbon-free manufacturing one of the core pillars of the country's new industrial strategy."
Electric Vehicles
Before investing in hybrid cars, the French company Citroën announced in June 2020 that it would manufacture its first electric vehicle at its plant in Kenitra, northwest Morocco. On December 21, 2020, Morocco unveiled a prototype of its first locally produced electric vehicle charging station.
Economic analyst Mohamed Nadif emphasized the importance of Morocco building on its previous automotive experience to establish a strong electric vehicle manufacturing sector. He stressed the necessity of strengthening the production of electric vehicles, spare parts, and other components related to the industry.
investment in electric vehicles
Nazif called for , alongside training local workers and facilitating post-sale services. He also highlighted the need for domestic production of all vehicle components, given the rising risks in global supply chains due to international instability, which impacts maritime transport costs.
Regarding the local market, Nadif emphasized the importance of making electric and hybrid cars accessible to Moroccan citizens. However, he noted the intense international competition in this field, particularly from Asian, American, and European markets.
Nadif also stressed the need to maintain production momentum while considering market competition and fluctuations, as well as diversifying production methods.
In May, the Moroccan Minister of Industry stated that the country aims to increase electric vehicle production to 100,000 units by 2025. In an interview, the minister noted that the challenge facing the country is not just selling the world's cheapest electric cars but also integrating the entire production value chain to ensure competitiveness and provide affordable vehicles.
He added, "We are betting on electric vehicles and are working to forge partnerships with key players, leveraging their expertise to develop the electric battery sector."