The automotive market is in constant flux, and hybrid cars are becoming a cornerstone of the industry’s future. Globally, the demand for hybrid vehicles is on the rise, and Tunisia is no exception.
The Tunisian government is actively supporting this shift towards hybrid technology, offering substantial incentives to encourage consumers to make the switch. For instance, individuals who opt for a hybrid vehicle can benefit from generous perks like exemptions from registration fees—significant savings that make the transition to hybrid cars more appealing.
The advantages of owning a hybrid vehicle extend beyond financial incentives. In certain regions, hybrid car owners enjoy privileges like free access to restricted zones and exemptions from traffic regulations, making daily commutes more convenient.
Hybrid vehicles seamlessly combine an electric motor with a traditional petrol or diesel engine, resulting in lower fuel consumption and significant savings over time.
More importantly, hybrid cars contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to conventional vehicles.
Tax Breaks on Hybrid Car Imports
Under Article 53 of the 2025 Finance Bill, several measures have been proposed to further incentivize the import of hybrid vehicles. These include:
- A 7% VAT rate and exemption from excise duties on hybrid vehicle imports.
- 7% VAT on rechargeable hybrid buses and trucks.
- A 10% customs duty and 7% VAT on charging points for electric vehicles and bicycles.
These tax reductions reflect Tunisia’s commitment to fostering a greener automotive sector and making hybrid and electric vehicles more accessible to the public.
Paving the Way for Electric Mobility by 2030
The Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy is leading efforts to promote electric mobility through regulatory, economic, and technical measures. At the regulatory level, the ministry has announced that the charging of electric vehicle batteries will now be classified as a “service,” where electricity is considered one of several inputs.
A draft decree has been prepared to regulate all aspects of this service, ensuring that electric vehicle charging is well-organized and efficient.
Moreover, the ministry is updating the standard NT120, which outlines the nomenclature for Tunisian activities, to include electric vehicle battery charging services. These updates are part of a broader national strategy to improve the energy efficiency of Tunisia’s transport sector and reduce its carbon footprint. This strategy aligns with Tunisia’s National Energy Transition Strategy, the National Environmental Transition Strategy, and the Low Carbon Development Strategy.
The transportation sector is a key focus of these initiatives, as it consumes around one-third of Tunisia’s total energy and accounts for over 50% of its oil product usage. Transitioning to electric and hybrid vehicles will not only reduce the sector’s environmental impact but also boost energy efficiency.
Technical Measures for a Sustainable Transition
In parallel with these regulatory efforts, the Ministry of Industry is working to strengthen the technical infrastructure necessary for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. A comprehensive plan is in place to enhance the technical skills of stakeholders involved in the deployment of charging infrastructures.
Additionally, the development of a standard technical specification guide and practical guides for decision-makers and other industry players is underway.
Efforts are also being made to establish accredited laboratories that will ensure that electric vehicle charging equipment complies with international standards. With the support of the National Agency for Energy Management (ANME) and INNORPI (the National Institute for Standardization and Industrial Property), Tunisia is creating a robust regulatory framework for the electric mobility sector.
