Kenya’s Shift to Affordable, Cleaner Transport with China’s EV Tech

Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) market is undergoing a rapid transformation, spurred by the influx of Chinese manufacturers and innovative technologies.

As of January 9, 2025, partnerships between local firms and Chinese companies are driving the shift toward sustainable transportation, with notable progress in the public transport sector.

BasiGo, in collaboration with BYD, China’s largest EV manufacturer, has introduced 19 electric buses in Nairobi, partially assembled in Kenya.

With over 130 reservations from operators eager to transition from diesel to electric, BasiGo plans to expand its fleet, supported by government incentives such as zero-rated taxes on EVs and investments in charging infrastructure.

The push for electric buses addresses both environmental concerns and the growing demand for efficient public transport in urban areas.

Complementing this effort, Roam Motors has established an assembly plant in Nairobi to manufacture up to 50,000 electric motorbikes annually, reflecting the rising consumer interest in sustainable mobility solutions.

Experts predict electric bikes could dominate Kenya’s two-wheeler market by 2040, with approximately 500 electric vehicles already on the roads.

This shift is not only environmentally significant but also economically transformative.

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Local assembly plants are creating jobs, enhancing manufacturing capacity, and reducing reliance on fossil-fuel vehicle imports, which strain foreign exchange reserves.

Increased electricity demand for EVs is expected to be met during off-peak hours, leveraging Kenya’s existing power capacity.

Beyond economic and environmental benefits, the transition to electric mobility fosters social equity.

For instance, electric vehicles lower operational costs, enabling drivers like Paul Mwai to increase their earnings.

Reliable and affordable transportation options also empower women to participate in income-generating activities and pursue education.

However, challenges remain. High upfront costs for EVs are a barrier for many consumers, emphasizing the need for partnerships between local banks and EV distributors to provide affordable financing options.

Continued investment in charging infrastructure is also critical for widespread adoption.

The integration of Chinese EV technology into Kenya’s transportation ecosystem represents a pivotal opportunity to address environmental concerns, stimulate economic growth, and promote social equity.

As Kenya accelerates its transition to sustainable mobility, it positions itself as a leader in Africa’s green transportation revolution.