Casablanca, March 3, 2025 – In a groundbreaking feat of endurance, innovation, and sustainability, “La Croisière Verte” has successfully completed its ambitious four-month journey from Ouarzazate, Morocco, to Cape Town, South Africa. Covering more than 16,000 km across 16 countries in four fully electric Citroën Amis, this historic expedition has set a new benchmark for micro-mobility and electrification, proving the viability of electric vehicles in even the most demanding environments.
A Century in the Making: Honoring André Citroën’s Legacy
A century after André Citroën’s legendary Croisière Noire, former rally-raid driver Éric Vigouroux spearheaded La Croisière Verte to celebrate a new era of clean mobility. “After three years of preparations, we are proud to have accomplished this historic expedition,” Vigouroux stated. “My goal was not just to showcase the potential of electric vehicles paired with clean energy but to create an adventure in the spirit of André Citroën, celebrating his achievement 100 years ago.”
Departing from Morocco on October 28, 2024, the convoy of specially modified Citroën Amis navigated a diverse landscape, from the arid deserts of Mauritania to the lush forests of the Congo and the coastal highways of Namibia, before reaching Cape Town on February 28, 2025. Throughout the journey, the team relied exclusively on renewable energy—95% solar, 4% hydroelectric, and 1% wind—achieving a world-first: a carbon-neutral, long-distance expedition across the African continent.
A Testament to Innovation and Sustainability
The success of La Croisière Verte reaffirms Stellantis Middle East & Africa’s (MEA) vision for an accessible and sustainable mobility future. Samir Cherfan, Chief Operating Officer of Stellantis MEA, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “This expedition embodies the core values of Stellantis MEA—innovation, sustainability, and accessibility. By proving that electric mobility is viable even in the most challenging conditions, we reinforce our commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future for mobility across Africa. With Eric and his team’s success, La Croisière Verte is a milestone that will inspire further advancements in electric transportation across the region.”
The journey not only tested the endurance of electric technology but also showcased the reliability of Citroën Ami. Often seen as a city-focused microcar, the Ami defied expectations by navigating rough terrains and extensive distances, challenging perceptions about the limitations of electric mobility.
Key Milestones of the Expedition
- 123 days of travel, with 123 stops in villages, cities, and remote areas
- 32 impactful meetings with local initiatives, universities, and renewable energy experts
- 100% renewable energy usage, proving the potential of clean energy-driven transportation
- Widespread engagement, inspiring a new generation of engineers, policymakers, and sustainability advocates
Throughout the expedition, the team was welcomed by Citroën’s local partners, further strengthening the brand’s presence and commitment to sustainable mobility in Africa. The journey aligned with Stellantis MEA’s broader strategy to accelerate electrification, ensuring that innovative solutions are both inclusive and adaptable to diverse markets.
Shaping the Future of Electric Mobility in Africa
Africa’s vast renewable energy potential positions it as a key player in the global shift toward sustainable transportation. La Croisière Verte was more than an endurance challenge—it was a platform for fostering dialogue on the future of clean mobility. By engaging with students, professionals, and local communities, the expedition has sparked conversations that will shape the region’s transition to electric mobility.
By successfully traversing Africa in a compact, fully electric vehicle, La Croisière Verte has redefined what is possible. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity, the adaptability of electric technology, and Stellantis MEA’s unwavering commitment to pioneering a greener, more responsible future for all.
