The 26th International Automotive & Technology Trade Exhibition, held from December 17th to 19th, 2025, at the Diamond Jubilee Expo Center in Dar es Salaam, firmly cemented Tanzania’s role as a major automotive nexus in East and Central Africa. Attracting investors, engineers, and exhibitors from over 28 countries, the event provided a crucial glimpse into the region’s shifting priorities.
For Tanzanian drivers and industry players, the takeaways are clear: the future is electric, local production is essential, and smart technology is transforming how we drive. Here is a breakdown of the four most significant developments and what they mean for the roads of Dar and beyond.
1. The Electrification Wave is Here (And It’s Getting Faster)
Unsurprisingly, the primary theme dominating the Autoexpo floor was the acceleration of sustainable mobility. A significant number of stands showcased electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid models, and innovations in charging infrastructure, reflecting a growing regional commitment to climate-friendly transportation.
While full-scale EV adoption still faces hurdles like high upfront cost and battery sourcing, the consensus among industry leaders at the expo was that the tipping point is rapidly approaching in East Africa. The focus has moved from if to how to best integrate this technology.
For drivers looking to explore sustainable mobility, EV24.africa offers import options for electric cars, expanding choices in the rapidly evolving East African market. This shift is also driving local training programs to ensure mechanics are ready to service these complex, modern powertrains.
Actionable Tip: Even if you don’t own an EV, you can practice sustainability. Regular servicing of your internal combustion engine (ICE) car, including replacing worn spark plugs and air filters, drastically improves fuel efficiency and reduces harmful emissions. [Discover additional tips on fuel saving in urban driving conditions via our internal guides.]
2. The Great Push for Local Assembly and Regional Supply
A major highlight of the Autoexpo was the strong emphasis on building robust, localized supply chains. As global manufacturers seek to minimize logistics risks and bypass tariffs, they are increasingly looking to establish or expand assembly operations within East Africa.
The exhibition showcased new ventures and partnerships aimed at strengthening regional manufacturing, from truck assembly to the localized production of components. This strategy not only creates jobs but promises to make new vehicles more affordable and readily available across the market.
Car Care Insight: When choosing parts for your vehicle, prioritize suppliers who have partnered with local assemblers or authorized distributors. This guarantees that the component is specifically designed for local road conditions and quality-checked against official standards. Always insist on seeing a certified quality assurance stamp to avoid counterfeit parts. You can keep up with the latest industry news and partnerships on a trusted local site like automag.tz.
3. Navigating the Second-Hand Market with Confidence
The backbone of transportation in Tanzania and most of East Africa remains the highly popular second-hand car market. The Autoexpo recognized this reality, dedicating sessions to trade financing, vehicle inspection technology, and the ethical management of imported used vehicles. Discussions centered on the need to balance consumer affordability with road safety and environmental concerns, particularly regarding the high volume of older, high-emission imports.
Buying a pre-owned car requires diligence, especially when securing popular models like the Toyota Vitz, Suzuki Swift, or Nissan Note. These reliable, compact hatchbacks are staples on Tanzanian roads due to their efficiency and low maintenance costs. To find second-hand cars suitable for these conditions, check out auto24.tz.
Practical Advice for Buyers: Never finalize a purchase without a thorough, independent pre-purchase inspection (PPI). A PPI, conducted by a trusted mechanic, can reveal hidden defects, flood damage, or structural issues, saving you significant repair costs down the line. Demand a complete service history for the vehicle and be prepared to negotiate based on inspection findings.
4. Smart Technology and the Connected Car
Beyond the engine, the Autoexpo highlighted the future of in-car technology. Exhibits focused on Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), smart infotainment, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) connectivity.
These technologies promise a future of safer, more efficient driving, potentially reducing the high rate of accidents on busy East African roads. From simple parking assist cameras to complex telemetry systems used in fleet management, digital integration is becoming a must-have, not just a luxury. Investing in simple upgrades, such as a modern head-unit with integrated GPS and reliable hands-free connectivity, can immediately enhance both your safety and your driving experience.
Conclusion: Driving Regional Growth
The 26th Autoexpo Tanzania was more than just a trade show; it was a blueprint for East Africa’s automotive future. The emphasis on sustainable technology, local production, and the responsible management of the used car market shows a mature and forward-looking industry ready to tackle regional challenges. For every Tanzanian driver, these shifts promise more choice, potentially higher-quality vehicles, and a clear path toward cleaner, safer roads.
