Fed Lifts Chinese Assembled Volkswagen Embargo


The ban on the import of electric Volkswagen (ID Series) cars assembled in China has been lifted. It was initially imposed after the Ministry of Transport & Logistics received a letter from the German automobile manufacturer headquartered in Wolfsburg following concerns with the battery's suitability for Ethiopia's weather. However, officials disclosed that a recent study conducted by Adama Science & Technology University contradicts the claims, revealing that the battery has no significant issues. The chain-assembled electric Volkswagen, known for its environmentally friendly features, is equipped with a battery designed to withstand temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius. The number of vehicles in the capital has surpassed 714,000, with an estimated urban population of five million. The introduction of electric vehicles aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable transportation.


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Authority Enacts EV Charging Stations Directive

A new directive setting technical standards, licensing requirements, and safety measures for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations has been approved. Created by the Petroleum & Energy Authority (PEA), it aims to ensure the quality of energy supply and the safety of charging stations and accelerate the adoption of EVs. The directive outlines service provision regulations, including technical and safety standards as well as electricity tariff criteria. It divides public charging stations...


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Fuel Prices Surge Following Subsidy Withdrawal

The Council of Ministers has authorised monthly reviews and adjustments to retail fuel prices, leading to a price hike on January 7. The increase affects gasoline, kerosene, white diesel, light black diesel, heavy black diesel, and jet fuel. Gasoline prices rose by 11.3pc to 101.47 Br a litre. White diesel and kerosene prices increased by 9.6pc, while light black diesel now costs 108.30 Br a litre, and heavy black diesel is priced at 105.97 Br. Long queues at fuel stations persisted until...


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Wegagen Bank Expands into Diaspora Real Estate Market

Wegagen Bank has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Deluxe Properties to support diaspora communities in purchasing homes. The agreement was signed at Wegagen Bank's headquarters last week. Under the MoU, Wegagen Bank will provide financing to diaspora buyers of Deluxe Properties' homes. The bank offers loans covering up to 80pc of the property's cost, with repayment terms spread over 25 years. The Bank stated the initiative supports the National Bank of Ethiopia's (NBE) missi...