From Wheels to Watts: Powering Africa with Retired EV Motors

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As Africa scales up electrification efforts, the demand for clean, cost-effective energy solutions is greater than ever. But what if the key lies in components we already have?

Join us for an insightful webinar with Dr. Udochukwu Bola Akuru (Tshwane University of Technology), as we explore how end-of-life electric vehicle (EV) motors—especially permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs)—can be repurposed to generate electricity for decentralised microgrids across Africa.

We’ll cover:

• The engineering behind reconfiguring EV motors for small-scale power generation
• Challenges like thermal performance, rare earth magnet degradation, and rotor compatibility
• Opportunities to align e-waste management, local manufacturing, and renewable integration
• The potential for circular economy innovation that reduces cost, builds resilience, and empowers African communities

This session will connect practical engineering with the vision for a sustainable, circular energy transition.

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