Grace Mobility Unveils Ghana’s First All‑Electric Pickup and Four New ZNA Fleets – A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Grace Mobility, a historic player in Ghana’s automotive market, has just announced a landmark expansion of its product line: five new ZNA vehicle families, including the country’s first all‑electric pickup, the ZNA Rich 7 EV. The launch marks a decisive step toward affordable, sustainable mobility for Ghanaian businesses and private drivers alike. This article breaks down the technical specifications, market impact, and practical considerations of the new lineup, while providing SEO‑friendly insights for anyone searching for “all‑electric pickup Ghana”, “ZNA fleets”, or “Grace Mobility electric vehicles”.

Analysis

Background of Grace Mobility

Founded in 1941, Grace Mobility has built a reputation for representing leading global brands in Ghana. In 2023 the group created a dedicated subsidiary, Grace Mobility Ltd., to focus exclusively on electric and hybrid vehicles. The company’s long‑standing relationships with local distributors, finance institutions, and government agencies give it a unique advantage when launching new models.

The Nissan‑Dongfeng Partnership

The new ZNA series results from a joint venture between Japan’s Nissan Motor Co. and China’s Dongfeng Motor Corporation. The partnership blends Nissan’s engineering expertise—particularly in electric power‑train technology—with Dongfeng’s cost‑effective manufacturing capabilities. This collaboration is crucial for delivering vehicles that meet both performance expectations and price‑sensitivity in the Ghanaian market.

Overview of the Five ZNA Fleets

• ZNA Rich 7 EV – Ghana’s first all‑electric pickup, designed for urban logistics.
• ZNA Rich 7 (combustion) – A 2.3 L diesel variant with an 8‑speed automatic transmission.
• ZNA Rich 7 Off‑Road – Heavy‑duty 2.3 L engine delivering 420 Nm of torque for rugged terrain.
• ZNA Rich 6 – A 2.5 L turbo‑diesel pickup paired with a 5‑speed manual gearbox.
• ZNA S15 SUV – A 2.0 L gasoline SUV featuring advanced driver‑assist technologies.

Technical Highlights of the ZNA Rich 7 EV

The electric pickup targets city‑center deliveries and small‑business fleets. Key specifications include:

• Motor output: 360 kW (≈ 483 hp)
• Top speed: 180 km/h
• Range (WLTP): 350 km on a single charge
• Battery capacity: 84 kWh lithium‑ion pack
• Charging: 0‑80 % in 45 minutes (DC fast‑charge, 150 kW)
• Cabin: “space‑capsule” interior, zero‑gravity seats, 360° surround‑view camera
• Safety: 6‑airbag system, electronic stability control, advanced braking assist

Assembly Plant Plans – A Timeline to 2026

Grace Mobility announced an ambitious plan to begin local assembly of electric and hybrid models by mid‑2026. The company is already negotiating with component suppliers, securing financing from local banks, and working with the Ghana Energy Commission to ensure compliance with national grid standards. The projected plant will create approximately 1,200 direct jobs and foster a domestic supply chain for batteries, power electronics, and body panels.

Summary

The introduction of the ZNA line, especially the Rich 7 EV, positions Grace Mobility as a pioneer of sustainable transport in West Africa. By leveraging the Nissan‑Dongfeng partnership, the company can offer high‑tech vehicles at price points competitive with conventional diesel pickups. The forthcoming assembly facility promises to deepen local expertise, reduce import duties, and stimulate the Ghanaian economy.

Key Points

Practical Advice for Potential Buyers

Assessing Your Use‑Case

Before selecting a ZNA model, evaluate the primary operating environment:

1. Urban delivery or short‑haul logistics: The Rich 7 EV offers low operating costs and zero emissions, ideal for city centers with growing low‑emission zones.
2. Rural or off‑road work: The Rich 7 Off‑Road or Rich 6 provides the torque and ground clearance needed for uneven terrain.
3. Family or passenger transport: The S15 SUV combines comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency for both city and highway travel.

Financing Options

Grace Mobility partners with several Ghanaian banks to provide:

• Low‑interest loans for EV purchases (interest rates as low as 6 %).
• Leasing programs with flexible mileage caps, especially for corporate fleets.
• Government incentives, such as tax reductions for electric vehicles, which can lower the effective purchase price by up to 10 %.

Charging Infrastructure Planning

To maximize the benefits of the Rich 7 EV, consider the following:

• Install a Level 2 (7 kW) home charger; a full charge takes roughly 12 hours overnight.
• Identify nearby DC fast‑charging stations (150 kW) along main routes; Ghana’s Energy Commission aims to double fast‑charging points by 2027.
• Explore workplace charging agreements with Grace Mobility’s service partners.

Points of Caution

• Charging Network Gaps: While fast‑charging stations are expanding, coverage remains limited outside Accra and Kumasi. Plan routes accordingly.
• Battery Degradation: Expect a 2‑3 % capacity loss per year under typical use; warranty coverage (usually 8 years or 160,000 km) can mitigate concerns.
• Maintenance Skill Set: Electric power‑train servicing requires specialized technicians; verify that local service centers are certified by Grace Mobility.
• Import Duties on Components: Until the 2026 assembly plant becomes operational, certain EV parts may still attract higher tariffs, potentially affecting after‑sales pricing.

Comparison with Competing Vehicles

While the Rich 7 EV’s range is shorter than diesel rivals, its total cost of ownership (fuel savings, lower maintenance) can be comparable or lower over a five‑year horizon, especially when factoring in government incentives.

Legal Implications

Purchasing or operating an electric vehicle in Ghana involves several regulatory considerations:

1. Vehicle Registration: EVs receive a distinct registration code (EV‑GHA) and are exempt from the annual road‑tax surcharge applied to gasoline/diesel vehicles.
2. Emissions Standards: Ghana’s Ministry of Environment enforces Euro 5 standards for new internal‑combustion engines. The Rich 7 EV automatically complies, offering future‑proofing against stricter regulations.
3. Import Duties: As of 2024, fully assembled EVs attract a 10 % import duty, whereas CKD (completely knocked down) units intended for local assembly enjoy a reduced 5 % duty—an advantage for the upcoming 2026 plant.
4. Workplace Charging Policies: Employers installing charging stations must adhere to the Ghana Energy Commission’s safety standards (IEC 61851) and obtain a grid connection permit.

Conclusion

Grace Mobility’s launch of the ZNA fleet, highlighted by the pioneering Rich 7 EV, signals a decisive shift toward sustainable transportation in Ghana and the broader West African market. By combining Nissan’s electric expertise with Dongfeng’s manufacturing efficiency, the company delivers a compelling mix of performance, safety, and affordability. The planned local assembly plant will further reduce costs, create jobs, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a regional hub for electric vehicle production. For businesses seeking to modernize fleets, and for consumers eager to adopt greener mobility, the ZNA series offers a credible, future‑ready option.

FAQ

Sources

1. Grace Mobility Press Release, 20 Nov 2025 – “Grace Mobility unveils first all‑electric pickup and four ZNA fleets”.
2. Nissan Motor Co., “Nissan‑Dongfeng Joint Venture Overview”, 2024.
3. Ghana Energy Commission, “National EV Infrastructure Roadmap”, 2024.
4. World Bank, “Automotive Industry in West Africa – Trends and Opportunities”, 2023.
5. International Energy Agency, “Global EV Outlook 2024”.
6. Ministry of Transport, Ghana, “Vehicle Registration and Taxation Guidelines for EVs”, 2024.