In a significant step towards promoting the “Made In Morocco” label and solidifying the Kingdom’s position as a competitive automotive production hub, King Mohammed VI presided over the presentation ceremony of the model of the first Moroccan car manufacturer and a prototype of a hydrogen vehicle developed by a Moroccan entrepreneur.
The event, held at the Royal Palace in Rabat on Monday, showcased two innovative projects that highlight the Sovereign’s commitment to encouraging and promoting pioneering national entrepreneurial initiatives and creative capacities, particularly among Moroccan youth.
These industrial initiatives align with the High Royal Directions to direct the private sector towards productive investments, especially in advanced and future sectors, and stimulate the emergence of a new generation of companies in the Kingdom. They also underscore the King’s visionary approach to sustainable development and the promotion of renewable energies, including the emerging field of green hydrogen.
The presentation to the King featured the car model of “Neo Motors,” a Moroccan-owned company, and the prototype of a hydrogen vehicle from NamX, named HUV (Hydrogen Utility Vehicle). The Sovereign’s support for these projects exemplifies the emphasis placed on bolstering the “Made In Morocco” label and positioning the country as a competitive automotive production platform.
Neo Motors has established an industrial facility in Ain Aouda, located in the Rabat-Salé-Kenitra Region, dedicated to manufacturing motor vehicles for both the local market and exports. The projected annual production capacity is 27,000 units, with a local integration rate of 65%. This project, requiring a total investment of 156 million dirhams, is expected to create 580 job opportunities.
The National Agency for Road Safety granted final approval for the first vehicle in February 2023. Pre-production has already commenced, and the industrial facility is scheduled to be inaugurated in June 2023, followed by the product launch.
This groundbreaking project, giving rise to the first Moroccan consumer car brand, is driven by national expertise and relies heavily on the well-established ecosystem of local automotive suppliers in the Kingdom.
The hydrogen vehicle prototype developed by NamX was created in collaboration with the renowned Italian design office and coachbuilder, Pininfarina.
The interior design of the vehicle has been realized by talented Moroccan individuals. The HUV model will be equipped with a central tank for hydrogen supply, complemented by six removable capsules, ensuring significant autonomy and facilitating hydrogen refueling in just a few minutes.
This pilot project firmly positions Morocco within the global momentum to develop innovative transportation solutions that combine efficiency with environmental consciousness.
During the ceremony, King Mohammed VI awarded the Wissam Al Kafaa Al Fikria to Nassim Belkhayat, the founder and CEO of Neo Motors company, and Faouzi Annajah, the President and founder of NamX company. The Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, was also present at the event.
