Why Are Natural Gas Vehicles So Popular in Africa Now

The high cost of diesel is the primary driving force for fleets to switch to gas powered vehicles. Most countries rely on imported diesel, with volatile prices and fuel expenses accounting for over 40% of logistics companies' operating costs. Nigeria, Algeria, Angola and other West African and North African countries have abundant natural gas reserves and stable and low local gas supply prices. Under the same mileage, fuel expenses for gas vehicles can be reduced by 25% -40%. Long term high-frequency transportation of mining and building materials fleets can save huge fuel expenses in a year. Local large enterprises such as Dangote Group have purchased thousands of CNG heavy-duty trucks in bulk to replace diesel fleets, reducing overall logistics costs.
The supporting facilities for natural gas in Africa continue to be improved, and obstacles to the use of refueling have been cleared. Multiple countries have launched policies to promote and support natural gas, simultaneously deploying gas stations and mobile gas filling equipment. The number of gas filling stations in mining areas and along trunk highways has increased year by year, and fixed line earthwork and ore transfer fleets do not need to worry about supply difficulties. Some countries have introduced fuel substitution subsidies, and enterprises can enjoy tax and fee reductions for bulk purchases of gas heavy-duty trucks, further reducing the threshold for car purchases.
In response to the harsh construction conditions in Africa, the adaptability of domestically produced gas vehicles has been greatly improved. The export gas engine has abundant low-speed torque and ample power to climb steep mountain slopes under full load. Paired with thick beams and heavy-duty axles, it can easily handle bumpy and dirt roads in mining areas; Gas combustion is sufficient without carbon deposition, and there is no need to frequently replace urea or clean the post-treatment system. The maintenance frequency is lower than that of diesel vehicles, making it suitable for the shortage of maintenance parts in Africa. At the same time, the emission of gas exhaust particulate matter is extremely low, which is in line with the new environmental control regulations of various countries. The annual inspection and customs clearance process on the road is more convenient.
In addition, the concentrated implementation of infrastructure projects in Africa has stimulated stable demand for transportation capacity. Highway renovation, mining, and transportation of building materials continue to release heavy truck orders, and the fleet places more emphasis on long-term operational revenue. Gas vehicles have surpassed traditional diesel models with low consumables and low costs. Industry insiders predict that with the continuous improvement of the natural gas industry chain in Africa, the export heat of gas dump trucks and tractor trailers will remain high for a long time, becoming the main force for the growth of commercial vehicle trade between China and Africa.