ENERGY Expert Bornface Zulu says the removal of taxes on Electric Vehicles (EVs), except for Value Added Tax (VAT), will help promote the use of EVs in the country.
Speaking to ZANIS in a telephone interview in Chilanga District, Mr Zulu observes that the government’s decision to remove taxes except VAT on electric vehicles is a significant step towards the adoption of EVs in the country.
Mr Zulu explained that the adoption of EVs in Zambia will help reduce the country’s carbon footprint by not emitting carbon emissions into the atmosphere.
He pointed out that this will put Zambia on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) map as a pioneer in the adoption of electric vehicles in the region.
“This move will not only attract investment into the transport sector but also create job opportunities for ordinary Zambians in the EV industry,” he said.
He further pointed out that the removal of taxes on EVs, except for VAT will attract both local and foreign investment.
He indicated that the increased adoption of EVs will also lead to the creation of new industries, including maintenance and repair services for electric vehicles which in turn, require specialised personnel, which will create more job opportunities.
Mr Zulu, however, cautioned that the adoption of EVs should be approached with caution, citing the need for supporting infrastructure, such as charging stations and increased generation capacity for electricity.
“To create an enabling environment for EVs, we need to invest in infrastructure development, including the installation of charging stations and the training of personnel to maintain these vehicles,” Zulu said.
He recommended that the government should incorporate training programmes for EV maintenance personnel at institutions of learning such as the Copperbelt University and the University of Zambia, as well as other technical schools.
“With the right infrastructure and support in place, the adoption of EVs will revolutionize Zambia’s transport sector, bringing numerous economic, environmental, and social benefits to the country,” observed Mr Zulu.
Mr Zulu stated that this is going to pose a transformation in the country’s transport sector, attracting both local and foreign investment and creating job opportunities for ordinary citizens.
