Kenya is fast becoming a hub for electric vehicle (EV) innovation, with Electric car startups leading the charge in sustainable mobility. From electric buses to last-mile delivery bikes, these companies are revolutionizing transportation while tackling climate change and high fuel costs. This guide explores the top electric car startups in Kenya, their business models, challenges, and future prospects.
Top Electric Car Startups in Kenya
1. BasiGo – Revolutionizing Public Transport with Electric Buses
Founded: 2021 | Funding: $42M (2024)
BasiGo is a trailblazer in Kenya’s e-mobility sector, providing cost-effective electric buses designed for Africa’s roads. Their pay-as-you-drive model makes EVs accessible to bus operators by eliminating high upfront costs.
- Key Features:
- 250 km range per charge.
- 70 buses deployed in Nairobi and Kigali, cutting 7,000 tons of CO₂ annually.
- Plans to expand to 500 buses by 2028.
BasiGo’s success is partly due to Kenya’s 90% renewable energy grid, making EVs cleaner than fossil-fuel alternatives.
2. EBIKES AFRICA – Affordable Electric Bikes for Delivery & Commuting
Founded: 2022 | Funding: $45K
Ebikes Africa focuses on electric bicycles for commuters and delivery riders. Their Adventurer 27.5” Kenyan Electric Bicycle is built for African terrain, with over 700 units produced.
- Business Model:
- Lease-to-own at $3/day, helping gig workers own bikes in 11 months.
- Partners with delivery platforms like Uber Eats.
- Expected to create 500+ jobs in 2024.
3. E-Safiri Charging – Expanding Rural E-Mobility
Founded: 2022 | Funding: $290K
E-Safiri tackles charging infrastructure gaps in rural Kenya, focusing on:
- Renewable energy-powered charging stations.
- Women inclusion in the EV sector.
- Affordable charging for 2- and 3-wheelers.
4. STIMA GENERAL MOTORS – Africa’s First E-Mobility Network
Founded: 2022
STIMA is building a circular EV ecosystem with:
- Battery-swapping stations for motorcycles.
- Plans to support 5 million electric bikes by 2040 in line with COP27 climate goals.
5. HBT Charge – Kenya’s EV Charging Network
Founded: 2021
HBT Charge is developing public charging infrastructure with:
- Fleet leasing for businesses.
- Charging stations at commercial hubs.
Challenges Facing Kenya’s EV Startups
Despite growth, EV adoption faces hurdles:
- High Import Taxes (55% on EVs) – Startups like Rideence lease instead of selling EVs to avoid prohibitive costs.
- Limited Charging Infrastructure – Companies like CHAJI Services and E-Safiri are working to expand networks.
- Battery Costs – Startups rely on Chinese battery tech to keep prices low.
Future of Electric Cars in Kenya
- Government Support: Kenya’s Startup Act and renewable energy grid boost EV growth.
- Local Assembly: MojaEV Kenya plans to assemble EVs locally, reducing costs.
- Ride-Hailing Adoption: Bolt has deployed 500+ electric bikes, signaling market readiness.
Conclusion
Kenya’s EV startups are paving the way for a greener, cost-effective transport future. With innovations in leasing models, battery tech, and charging networks, the sector is set to expand—despite tax and infrastructure challenges.
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