Electric buses in Nairobi provide an excellent opportunity for drivers to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.Â
Electric buses are also less expensive, requiring only Sh5,000 in electric charges per day as opposed to Sh12,000 to Sh14,000 in fuel per day for conventional buses.
To reduce carbon emissions, Kenya’s transportation industry is shifting toward electric vehicles and motorcycles.
Reduced Carbon Emissions
BasiGo, an electric vehicle provider, claims to have avoided the emission of 217.4 tonnes of CO2 in just two years.
Their electric buses have reduced fuel costs while also increasing environmental conservation.
In 2019, the Nairobi County government launched a pilot project with four electric buses operating on selected routes within the city.
The buses were manufactured by a Chinese company and were equipped with fast-charging capabilities. The success of this pilot project has paved the way for further expansion of electric bus fleets in Kenya.
The Kenyan government has also implemented various policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, including buses.
These include tax exemptions, reduced import duties, and preferential treatment in public procurement processes. Such measures aim to make electric buses more affordable and attractive for transport operators.
e-Boda Bodas
During his speech at the 60th Madaraka Day celebrations, President William Ruto made a commitment to provide low-cost financing for electric motorbikes to boda boda riders.
Mazi Mobility sells e-bikes with single or dual batteries. The Sh130,000 single battery bike can travel up to 70 kilometers on a single charge. The dual battery bike costs Sh180,000 and travels twice as far.
The Roam Air bike costs Sh180,000 and includes two batteries. Charging time is four hours per battery when using a 600W charger purchased at a charging station for Sh168. The bikes can travel up to 140km if two batteries are used.
