Atlas, an EV startup headquartered in London, UK with Moroccan routes announced its first model that wants to become the first EV designed, engineered, and manufactured in Africa. The model is scheduled to enter production in 2026 and debut in global markets in 2027, using as many OEM components as possible, resulting in lower R&D costs.
Atlas refers to its first model as a “superior-engineered, affordable, all-electric vehicle inspired by Moroccan design and identity”. Its silhouette was revealed in a single teaser sketch, looking like a compact SUV. However, the project is still in the early stages of development with the start of production being three years away.
The yet-unnamed model will ride on a “proven EV architecture from an established OEM” with Atlas keeping its cards closed in terms of its partner’s name. As reported by Autocar, Atlas CEO wants the R&D expenditure to be only 5% of the total investment by using off-the-shelf parts.
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The Anglo-Moroccan technology company plans on building its “state-of-the-art” production and development facilities in Morocco, utilizing “British automotive industrialization expertise” and taking advantage of the significantly lower cost of labor in the African country compared to Europe.
The plan is for the EV to be initially offered in European, Middle Eastern, and African markets, before going global. Furthermore, besides the actual vehicle, Atlas wants to invest in “advanced range-enhancing technology”, alongside battery tech and charging networks.
Atlas was co-founded by CEO, Mohammed Yehya El Bakkali, and CTO, Mohammed Hicham Senhaji Hannoun, with “substantial private funding”. In the near future, the company will announce its advisory board comprising “renowned experts” from the automotive industry.
