Ethio Telecom launches EV charging station in Addis AbabaEthio Telecom launches EV charging station in Addis Ababa

Ethio Telecom, Ethiopia's state-owned telecommunications company, has launched a new charging station in Addis Ababa to bolster the nation's expanding electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.

With EV adoption on the rise in Ethiopia, the telco said that the state-of-the-art charging station is designed to meet the increasing demand for fast, efficient and smart charging solutions.

"Featuring three charging modalities, the station can simultaneously charge up to 32 electric vehicles, ensuring convenience and efficiency for drivers," the telco said in a statement.

Ethio Telecom added that the chargers are designed for efficiency, capable of replenishing batteries at a rate equivalent to traveling 1 km per second, depending on the vehicle's capabilities.

"They leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize charging speed and power delivery based on individual vehicle battery requirements and user preferences. This ensures faster, smarter, and more energy-efficient charging, enhancing the overall user experience," Ethio Telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamiru said.

EV charging station features

The telco said the charging station has eight ultra-fast chargers with up to 600 kW of power and the chargers are capable of fully charging compatible vehicles within 15 minutes.

Related:Ethiopia's telecoms liberalization makes progress – Omdia

The station also has twelve super-fast chargers of up to 500 kW of power, delivering high-speed charging "with optimal accessibility," ensuring drivers get back on the road quickly.

"The charging station has smart pole chargers that are integrated into smart city infrastructure. These Level II chargers provide emergency charging options for drivers in need and are located along various routes," Tamiru added.

The Ethio Telecom team attend the launch of a new EV charging station in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Source: Ethio Telecom)

The telco has been working towards digitally transforming the Horn of Africa nation and has been engaging with international bodies to expand the digital economy.

In January 2025, the company initiated strategic discussions with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to help advance Ethiopia's digital transformation strategy.

The operator is also busy with a partial privatization process to raise funds for the expansion of its 5G network. However, the planned first sale of shares was delayed last month. Ethio Telecom's executives announced a five-week extension of the deadline for a public offering of a 10% stake in the company, saying that the offer would be extended to run until February 14, 2025.

E-mobility sector growth in Ethiopia

The charging station in Addis Ababa responds to the growing EV sector in the country and across East Africa.

Related:Ethio Telecom in financing talks with AfDB

Companies like Dodai, an e-mobility startup, have taken center stage in the country, revolutionizing transportation and paving the way for a more sustainable future. Dodai designs, assembles and sells electric motorcycles, three-wheelers, and bicycles that can use the newly launched charging station.