The African automobile industry may not be well known. Possibly it has not evolved as expected since its countries were colonies until the 20th century, coinciding with the time when the developed world was industrializing. In many cases, their governments failed to provide their territories with the political and social stability necessary for the creation of an industrial development once they achieved independence.

They became economically dependent on the countries which had controlled them to obtain products that they were not capable of producing on their own. And the automobile was one of these products. European brands, especially the French, were able to build up a foothold in the countries of North Africa, just as British SUVs did in central and southern Africa. 

The following is a summary of six African brands that have been able to create vehicles of all sizes and even supercars at a cost of millions of dollars.

Kiira Motors Corporation - Uganda

Photo Courtesy Kiira EV Smack

Among its prototypes is the Kiira EV Poc, a small two-seater electric car that guarantees 80 kilometers of autonomy, as well as the Kiira EV Smock, a sedan with hybrid mechanics. The latest one is a solar bus called Kayoola Solar Bus with premium finishes, according to the company itself, and a range of 80 kilometers. 

Innoson Motors - Nigeria

Photo Courtesy Innoson Fox

In 1987, a 25-year-old Innocent Chukwma set out to create a motorcycle brand to compete in his country's market, which was dominated by foreign brands. Its range includes two passenger cars the Innoson Fox and the Innoson Umu compact sedan, a SUV the Innoson G5, and a pick-up truck reminiscent of the Toyota Hilux.

Wallys Car - Tunisia

Photo Courtesy Wallys Car Izis

In 2005 they started manufacturing and three years later presented their first vehicle, the Wallys Izis, clearly inspired by the Jeep Cherokee, at the Paris Motor Show. It has its factory near the capital and a manufacturing capacity of about 600 vehicles per year, which, according to their website, they sell in the national and international market.

Kantanka - Ghana

Photo Courtesy aa.com.tr

In 2006, an SUV, the Onantefo I, was introduced, which was gradually followed by SUVs, and new sedans, all with designs derived from Asian and European models. In 1998, they created the Kantanka Saloon, a five-seater passenger car, the first vehicle to be marketed.

Perana Performance Group, South Africa

Photo Courtesy es.motor1.com

This brand developed the Z-One, which is a sports car similar to the Chevrolet Corvette, its bodywork was created by Zagato. This model has a 7.2-liter V8 with 700 horsepower, and is highly fuel efficient.