Surge in Electric Vehicle Adoption and Local Assembly in Kenya
Surge in Electric Vehicle Adoption and Local Assembly in Kenya

Surge in Electric Vehicle Adoption and Local Assembly in Kenya

June 4, 2025
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Introduction: The Rise of Electric Vehicle Adoption in Kenya

Electric vehicle adoption in Kenya is accelerating at an impressive rate. From tax incentives to local assembly plants, the country is gearing up for an electric future. In 2025, Kenya stands out as one of Africa’s most progressive nations in embracing EVs. With climate change concerns and rising fuel prices, this transition is timely and necessary.


Why Kenya Is Embracing EVs

Several driving forces are fueling the rise of electric vehicle adoption in Kenya:

  • Climate Goals: Reducing emissions from the transport sector.
  • Economic Benefits: Lower running and maintenance costs.
  • Energy Readiness: Over 85% of Kenya’s electricity is generated from renewables.

These factors position Kenya to lead the EV revolution in Africa.


Strong Government Policies Supporting Electric Vehicle Adoption in Kenya

The government has laid a solid policy foundation to support electric vehicle adoption in Kenya:

✅ Tax Incentives

  • Excise duty for fully electric vehicles reduced from 20% to 10%.
  • Reduced VAT and customs duties for EV components.
  • Incentives for EV assemblers and battery producers.

➡️ Source: Africa Business

✅ Charging Infrastructure Rollout

  • Kenya Power has committed $1.93 million over 3 years.
  • Development of EV charging stations in Nairobi and major towns.
  • Public-private partnerships supporting fast-charging infrastructure.

➡️ Source: Xinhua News

✅ Legal Framework

The Ministry of Transport is revising traffic and motor vehicle laws to include EV licensing, insurance, and road-use guidelines.


Local Assembly Boom: Building EVs in Kenya

Electric vehicle adoption in Kenya - The NETA X
Neta X SUV

The surge in electric vehicle adoption in Kenya has catalyzed investment in local vehicle assembly:

MojaEV Kenya Ltd.

  • Planning to start assembling electric vehicles in 2025.
  • Partnering with Associated Vehicle Assemblers Ltd. (Mombasa).
  • Long-term goal: fully local plant producing EVs and solar batteries.

➡️ Source: Bloomberg

BasiGo – Kenya’s Electric Bus Pioneer

  • Assembling buses locally since 2023.
  • Partners with matatu SACCOs for leasing electric buses.
  • Offers “pay-as-you-drive” models for affordability.
  • Electric buses serve Nairobi’s urban routes.

➡️ Source: Wikipedia – BasiGo


Electric Motorcycles: Two-Wheelers Going Green

The growth of electric vehicle adoption in Kenya includes the motorcycle sector—crucial for delivery services and boda boda transport.

🔋 Spiro Leads the Way

  • Formerly MAuto, now operating across 6 African countries.
  • Offers battery-swapping stations in Nairobi.
  • Affordable financing and lease-to-own plans for riders.

➡️ Source: Wikipedia – Spiro

📊 Stat Growth

  • Electric motorcycles now account for 7.1% of new registrations in Kenya (up from 3.6% in 2023).

➡️ Source: CleanTechnica


Charging Infrastructure Expands Nationwide

To support growing demand, charging infrastructure is being rolled out strategically:

  • BasiGo’s Nairobi-based stations can charge 6 buses at once.
  • Kenya Power building additional fast chargers in Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru.
  • Battery swap technology being piloted for motorcycles and taxis.

Kenya’s Renewable Energy Advantage

One reason for the rapid electric vehicle adoption in Kenya is its power source. With 85% of the electricity grid powered by geothermal, hydro, and wind, EVs in Kenya truly offer zero-emissions transportation.

This clean energy mix makes Kenya a perfect match for electric mobility.


Future Outlook: What’s Next for EVs in Kenya?

As the world shifts to electric mobility, Kenya is not just participating—it’s leading. With local assembly, robust infrastructure, and government support, electric vehicle adoption in Kenya will continue to grow fast in 2025 and beyond.

Expect:

  • EV prices to fall further as local assembly ramps up.
  • More financing and leasing options.
  • Increased adoption in the public transport sector.

Also check out:

External Resources


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Is electric vehicle adoption in Kenya growing in 2025?

Yes. The Kenyan government and private sector are investing heavily in infrastructure and policy to drive EV adoption.

Q2. Are electric vehicles cheaper to run in Kenya?

Absolutely. EVs offer lower maintenance and energy costs, especially with Kenya’s renewable energy grid.

Q3. Where can I charge an EV in Nairobi?

There are charging stations in Buruburu, Westlands, and along Mombasa Road. More are being built by Kenya Power and private firms.

Q4. Are electric motorcycles available in rural areas?

Yes. Companies like Spiro and Ecobodaa are expanding to peri-urban and rural markets using mobile battery swaps.


Conclusion

The momentum behind electric vehicle adoption in Kenya is real and growing. With policy support, renewable energy, and local innovation, Kenya is on track to become Africa’s electric mobility hub.