Egypt's Nasr Automobile Plant has started producing its first electric vehicle, the MAGE EV, which is a model from the Chinese brand Dongfeng Motor. The vehicle has a local component of 45%, as part of efforts to support the localization of electric vehicle manufacturing and deepen local manufacturing in Egypt. The launch was attended by Khaled Hisham, Minister of Industry, and Dr. Mahmoud Essmat, Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy.
The production launch is part of efforts to revive the Nasr Automobile Plant and maximize the use of its production assets through partnerships with the private sector and global companies, as well as transfer modern technology to the Egyptian market. The vehicle was launched in the presence of several officials from industrial bodies and participating companies. The Minister of Industry inspected the production lines of the vehicle to learn about the manufacturing stages and technologies used.
Minister of Industry Khaled Hisham stated that the automotive sector is one of the industries targeted for integration into global supply chains. He added that the ministry is working in coordination with relevant authorities to develop the National Automotive Industry Development Program (AIDP) and enhance incentives for feeder industries. The program provides incentives to manufacturers linked to increasing local value-added, expanding production and investments, and complying with environmental standards.
The Minister of Industry also pointed out that the next phase aims to increase the local component and expand the manufacturing of production requirements, with the goal of building a comprehensive automotive industry that meets local market needs and supports regional and international exports. He added that the global shift towards electric vehicles opens up new investment and manufacturing opportunities, especially in electric vehicle components, battery systems, and electronic components.
Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Dr. Mahmoud Essmat stated that the continuous support from the political leadership for localizing vehicle manufacturing technology, especially electric vehicles, has contributed to reaching the stage of producing the new vehicle. He pointed out that the state is working to expand the establishment of electric vehicle charging stations and their spread across the country, in parallel with supporting the use of clean energy and localizing vehicle manufacturing.
The launch of the MAGE EV is considered a model for cooperation between state institutions, the private sector, and international partners. The vehicle is expected to contribute to the development of the Egyptian automotive industry and support the country's efforts to increase the local component and reduce imports. The production of the vehicle is also expected to create new job opportunities and contribute to the country's economic growth.
The Egyptian government has set a target to increase the local component of the automotive industry to 60% in the coming years. The government is also working to develop the necessary infrastructure to support the growth of the electric vehicle market, including charging stations and maintenance centers. The launch of the MAGE EV is a significant step towards achieving these goals and supporting the development of the Egyptian automotive industry.
Key points
- The production of the MAGE EV is part of efforts to support the localization of electric vehicle manufacturing and deepen local manufacturing in Egypt.
