The New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer for election 2024, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has pledged to lower public transportation costs if elected in the upcoming polls.
To fulfil this promise, Dr. Bawumia outlined his plan to support and promote the use of Electric Vehicles (EVs) for public transportation, showcasing his commitment to reducing costs.
Speaking at the NPP manifesto launch on Sunday, August 18, Dr. Bawumia assured Ghanaians that the first batch of EVs for public transportation would arrive in the country by the end of 2024.
This initiative aims to significantly advance sustainable and cost-effective transportation in the country.
“We will reduce the cost of public transportation by promoting and supporting Electric Vehicles (EVs) for public transportation,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
Reports indicate that filling up on petrol/diesel is 59% more expensive than recharging an EV today.
Currently, filling a 45-litre petrol tank costs GH¢426.6, based on a price of GH¢14.22 per litre.
In comparison, charging a standard electric vehicle (EV) in Ghana requires 28-30 charging units. Each unit costs GH¢5.75 at EV charging points.
A fully charged EV will cost about GH¢172 to travel 250 miles, significantly less than the GH¢426.6 required for a petrol vehicle over the same distance.
Additionally, EVs have much lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engines.
In addition to the EV initiative, Dr. Bawumia announced a series of measures designed to make public transportation more affordable and accessible. These include expanding the Gold-For-Oil Programme (G4O) to continue stabilising the price of fuel.
He also revealed the implementation of the “Flat Rate Duties for all importers” policy.
This policy aims to stabilize and predict the prices of imported spare parts, reducing maintenance costs for public vehicles and, consequently, lowering fares for passengers.