In a significant milestone for Benin's transportation sector, a local entrepreneur, Vital Sounouvou, has developed the country's first prototype of an 8-seat electric shuttle. The project, dubbed AGOOJIYÉ, was presented on November 10, 2026, and is expected to serve the transportation needs of the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ). The shuttle was developed with the help of 85 students from Africa Design School, Epitech, and École polytechnique d'Abomey-Calavi (EPAC).
The AGOOJIYÉ project aims to address the mobility needs of the GDIZ, where approximately 15,000 workers travel several kilometers daily between the entrance gate and their production units. To develop the vehicle, Exportunity Machinery SAS, led by Sounouvou, collaborated with Futur Studio and the Société industrielle d'acier du Bénin (SIAB). The project was initiated in June and has resulted in a functional prototype in just 45 days.
The electric shuttle's development involved a multidisciplinary approach, with students and engineers working together on design, calculation, and fabrication. The project's focus on using locally available materials and components is expected to facilitate large-scale production and reduce supply chain challenges. According to Sounouvou, the vehicle is designed to be cost-competitive and tailored to the needs of Beninese users.
The GDIZ requires approximately 680 buses to meet its transportation needs, and Sounouvou envisions potential deployment of the electric shuttle on tourist circuits, such as the Vodun Days and the Route des Pêches. The entrepreneur emphasizes that AGOOJIYÉ represents a crucial step towards establishing a Beninese automotive industry. The prototype is expected to be completed in the coming days, followed by an official presentation and deployment.
Sounouvou's initiative has garnered attention from local media, with the prototype being showcased on a public service media outlet. The project's success demonstrates the potential for local innovation and expertise in Benin's transportation sector. As the country continues to explore sustainable mobility solutions, the AGOOJIYÉ project serves as a promising example of homegrown ingenuity.
The development of the electric shuttle also highlights the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and government initiatives. By leveraging local talent and resources, Exportunity Machinery SAS aims to create a more sustainable and efficient transportation system for the GDIZ and beyond.
As Benin continues to drive innovation in its transportation sector, the AGOOJIYÉ project is poised to play a significant role in shaping the country's mobility landscape. With its focus on local expertise, sustainable design, and cost-competitive production, the electric shuttle project offers a promising glimpse into Benin's future transportation prospects.
Key points
- The project aims to address the mobility needs of the GDIZ, where approximately 15,000 workers travel several kilometers daily.
