After a journey of four months and over 16,000 km traveled, “The Green Cruise” has achieved its goal. Starting from Ouarzazate in Morocco to reach Cape Town in South Africa, the expedition, led by former rally-raid driver Éric Vigouroux, has proven the feasibility of electric micro-mobility across a wide variety of terrains. On board four fully electric Citroën Ami vehicles powered solely by renewable energy, this adventure demonstrated the robustness of electric vehicles while reinforcing Stellantis MEA’s vision for more sustainable and accessible mobility.
Éric Vigouroux stated: “After three years of preparation, we are proud to have accomplished this historic expedition. My goal was not only to showcase the potential of electric vehicles coupled with clean energy but also to recreate an adventure in the spirit of André Citroën and to celebrate the feat he achieved 100 years ago.”
A century after André Citroën’s legendary Black Cruise, “The Green Cruise” has redefined long-distance travel by relying exclusively on green energy. Departing from Ouarzazate on October 28, 2024, the convoy of four specially modified Citroën Ami crossed 16 countries before reaching Cape Town on February 28, 2025. With zero carbon emissions, this crossing marks a world first and illustrates the potential of electric mobility, even in the most demanding environments.
Samir Cherfan, Director of Operations for Stellantis Middle East & Africa, emphasized: “This expedition embodies the core values of Stellantis MEA: innovation, sustainability, and accessibility. By demonstrating that electric mobility is viable even in the toughest conditions, we reinforce our commitment to a cleaner and more sustainable future for Africa. With the success of Éric and his team, ‘The Green Cruise’ marks an inspiring milestone for future advancements in electric transport in the region.”
The success of the Citroën Ami in this crossing proves the reliability and efficiency of electric technology. Traveling through Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Namibia, and South Africa, the expedition demonstrated that electric mobility is not limited to urban environments but can also meet transportation needs on a global scale.
Key moments from this adventure include:
- 123 days of travel and as many stops in villages, towns, and remote areas.
- 32 impactful meetings with local initiatives, universities, and renewable energy experts.
- 100% renewable energy: 95% solar energy, 4% hydroelectricity, and 1% wind energy.
- A proof of accessibility: if an electric vehicle as compact as the Citroën Ami can cover this distance, electric mobility is adaptable to everyone’s needs.
- Strong local support: throughout the journey, the expedition team was welcomed by Citroën partners in several countries, notably in South Africa, thereby strengthening the brand’s presence and its commitment to sustainable mobility in Africa.
This journey fully aligns with Stellantis MEA’s long-term strategy, which aims to push the boundaries of sustainable mobility. As part of its strategic development, the company is accelerating the transition to electrification by ensuring the provision of innovative, inclusive, and market-adapted solutions.
With its vast renewable energy resources, Africa represents immense potential for the development of clean energy-based mobility solutions. “The Green Cruise” aimed not only to demonstrate the capabilities of this technology but also to foster a constructive dialogue with local students and professionals to inspire a new generation of innovators.
By successfully completing this crossing of the continent with a fully electric compact vehicle, the Citroën Ami challenges perceptions about the capabilities of sustainable mobility. This journey illustrates the power of innovation, the adaptability of electric solutions, and Stellantis MEA’s vision for a greener and more responsible future for all.