Kenya is making steady progress toward electric vehicle (EV) adoption, but whether it’s the right time to switch depends on your needs and circumstances. Here’s the quick takeaway:
- EV Growth: Sales increased from 65 units in 2018 to 4,047 in 2023. By 2025, EVs are expected to make up 5% of new vehicle registrations.
- Focus on Motorcycles: Electric motorcycles dominate, making up 90% of Kenya’s EV fleet, with over 60,000 expected by 2030.
- Infrastructure: Over 200 public charging stations are operational, with plans for 10,000 by 2030. However, rural areas still lack coverage.
- Government Incentives: Import duties are down to 10%, and VAT has been removed for EVs, making ownership more affordable.
- Challenges: High upfront costs, limited rural infrastructure, and range anxiety remain concerns.
If you live in urban areas like Nairobi, where charging stations are expanding, switching to an EV could save you on fuel and maintenance. For rural drivers or those traveling long distances, waiting for better infrastructure might be wiser.
How practical is having an electric car in Kenya?
Current State of EVs in Kenya
Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) market may still be in its infancy, but it’s growing fast. With clear government goals and increasing consumer interest, the country is laying the groundwork for a strong EV presence.
Rising EV Adoption Numbers
The numbers tell an exciting story. EV sales in Kenya jumped by a massive 108% during the 2022–2023 financial year, grabbing an 8.3% share of new vehicle sales. In just one year, electric car sales more than doubled, rising from 1,059 units in 2022 to 2,694 units in 2023. By the close of 2023, the country had 3,753 electric cars on its roads, with total EV registrations reaching around 9,000 units by December 2024.
Electric motorcycles are leading the charge, making up nearly 90% of Kenya’s EV fleet. They play a vital role in commercial transportation, and in 2024, over 7% of new motorcycle registrations were electric.
"Two-wheelers account for the majority of our electric vehicles, with projections estimating over 60,000 electric motorcycles by 2030", says Hezbon Mose, President of the Electric Mobility Association of Kenya.
Looking ahead, the momentum seems unstoppable. EV sales are projected to grow by 150% in 2025 compared to the previous year. This rapid growth is paving the way for local manufacturing efforts to take off.
Government EV Targets
The Kenyan government has set ambitious targets: EVs should make up 5% of all newly registered vehicles by 2025. By late 2023, EVs represented 1.62% of the country’s annual vehicle sales. While this is still short of the 5% goal, the rapid growth suggests the gap is closing quickly – making it a promising time for early adopters to make the switch.
To encourage adoption, the government slashed excise duties on EV imports from 20% to 10%, aiming for EVs to account for 5% of vehicle imports by 2025. By 2030, projections suggest EVs could make up 30% of new vehicle sales in Kenya. Broader regional forecasts from McKinsey and the Shell Foundation predict EV and electric motorcycle sales across Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Uganda, and Rwanda could range from 340,000 to 820,000 units by 2025, soaring to between 3.8 million and 4.9 million units by 2040. With supportive policies already in motion, local innovators are stepping up to expand the industry.
Local Manufacturing and New Companies
Kenya’s EV market is being shaped by homegrown innovation. For example, Roam secured $24 million in February 2024 to fund research, development, and production efforts. This investment reflects growing confidence in Kenya’s ability to build a domestic EV industry.
BasiGo is another standout, raising $42 million in 2024 to roll out 1,000 electric buses in Kenya and Rwanda. Their unique approach separates the cost of EVs from batteries, offering battery leasing as a service to make electric buses more affordable for transport operators.
Other local initiatives include Ecomobilus, which teamed up with Kenyatta University’s Chandaria BIIC to develop the "eMkoko" electric cargo cart. Designed as an upgrade to the traditional mkokoteni, this vehicle features locally sourced components like the carry tray, chassis, and a lithium battery made from second-life cells. Similarly, Linncell Technologies Limited is creating EV solutions tailored for persons with disabilities and utility scooters for water and gas delivery.
Sustainability is also woven into the sector. Enviroserve operates an e-waste collection center that processes materials for recycling and sources second-life lithium cells for e-mobility batteries. This approach supports a sustainable supply chain for local EV production.
However, challenges remain. Producing EV components locally can cost anywhere from 50% to over 300% more than importing them directly. To overcome this, targeted tax incentives are needed to make domestic production more competitive and address cost concerns for consumers.
"We are working with the private sector players to identify the energy and infrastructure needs within the e-mobility space to inform the deployment of the right strategies that will accelerate EV adoption in Kenya", explains Joseph Siror, Managing Director of Kenya Power.
With rising adoption rates, clear government priorities, and a growing local manufacturing sector, Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s EV transition. The next big challenge? Building the infrastructure to support this exciting shift.
Kenya’s EV Infrastructure Development
Kenya is making strides in building its EV infrastructure to keep up with the growing adoption of electric vehicles and the rise in local manufacturing. While the progress is evident, there are still hurdles to overcome. The country is focused on expanding its charging network, filling coverage gaps, and exploring innovative approaches like battery swapping to support EV users.
Charging Station Network and Growth Plans
Kenya’s charging network has seen rapid growth recently. The number of public charging stations jumped from 67 in 2024 to over 200 by early 2025. This expansion signals the country’s dedication to supporting the EV shift.
Big players like Shell and Total Energies are transforming high-traffic locations into fast-charging hubs. These stations feature 50–150 kW DC chargers, which can add 200–300 kilometers of range in just 30 minutes, while ultra-fast 350 kW chargers deliver up to 300 kilometers in only 15 minutes.
Kenya Power is also heavily investing in charging infrastructure. In May 2025, the utility announced plans to install 45 charging stations across seven counties – including Nairobi, Nyeri, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Taita-Taveta – within a year. Six of these stations will be located at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, adding to the three existing chargers in Nairobi.
Over the next three years, Kenya Power plans to invest KSh 258 million (around $1.9 million) to expand its network, with a goal of deploying 10,000 charging stations nationwide by 2030. Urban hubs are evolving into one-stop service centers, offering multiple charging points and amenities for drivers. Payment systems are becoming more user-friendly, with options like RFID cards, mobile apps, and contactless payments. Some stations even provide subscription plans with perks like lower rates and priority access.
Despite these advances, rural areas remain underserved – a challenge that still needs addressing.
Infrastructure Gaps and Problems
Even with the rapid expansion of charging stations, challenges persist. Limited access to charging points continues to create range anxiety for potential EV buyers. Currently, around 200 public charging stations serve the 9,047 registered EVs in Kenya, with electric motorcycles making up nearly 90% of that total.
Urban centers like Nairobi are seeing significant progress, but rural areas lag behind. To bridge this gap, solar-powered charging stations are being introduced, along with mobile apps that provide real-time updates on charger availability.
To further improve access, Kenya’s National Building Code 2024 now requires commercial buildings to allocate 5% of their parking spaces for EV charging. For EV owners, practical solutions include using mobile apps to locate chargers, planning routes around charging points, and investing in home charging setups. Home charging is significantly cheaper, costing KSh 300 ($2.30) compared to KSh 2,000 ($15.40) for petrol. Additionally, in 2023, domestic EV charging rates were reduced from KSh 27 ($0.21) per unit to KSh 17 ($0.13) per unit.
Battery Swapping Solutions
To complement the growing charging network, battery swapping is emerging as a practical alternative to reduce downtime and upfront costs. This technology cuts energy replenishment time to just minutes, addressing two of the biggest concerns for EV users.
Spiro has taken the lead in this space, launching operations in Kenya in October 2023. Over the past year, the company has introduced more than 3,000 electric motorcycles and established over 100 battery swap stations across cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and Kisumu.
"Spiro is now the largest electric vehicle company in Africa by vehicles deployed. Spiro is also the fastest growing battery swapping network operator on the continent", the company stated.
Spiro’s model has proven successful, with over 60,000 LFP batteries deployed across eight countries and more than 20 million battery swaps completed. In Kenya alone, 4,862 electric motorcycles were sold in 2024. Battery swapping also addresses cost concerns, as batteries typically account for 40% of an electric motorcycle’s price. By using leasing models, Spiro has made its Ekon electric motorcycle 30% cheaper than comparable gas-powered models.
For commercial vehicles like motorcycles in Nairobi, which often travel 100–120 kilometers daily, battery swapping reduces downtime and alleviates range anxiety. ChargeUp! is also exploring a battery-as-a-service model in Nairobi, showcasing the growing interest in alternative charging solutions.
Government Policies and EV Market Access
Kenya’s push toward electric vehicle (EV) adoption is supported by government initiatives aimed at removing financial and regulatory obstacles. These efforts focus on reducing the high upfront costs of EVs and building the necessary infrastructure to support their growth.
Tax Breaks and Government Support
To make EV ownership more affordable, Kenya has introduced a range of tax incentives. Import duties on EVs have been lowered to 10%, while excise duties and VAT have been completely removed. Additionally, registration fees for EVs have been reduced. Policies like the Finance Bill 2025 ensure that VAT exemptions apply to electric motorcycles, bicycles, buses, and locally assembled EVs, significantly cutting costs for consumers.
The government is also prioritizing the expansion of EV charging infrastructure. Kenya Power and Light Company (KPLC) has proposed a special EV charging tariff of KES 17 per kilowatt hour, making charging more affordable. Public-private partnerships and reduced electricity tariffs are further driving the growth of charging networks. To assist with financing, NCBA Bank launched a KSh 2 billion ($15 million) loan facility in August 2022, offering up to 80% financing for EV purchases.
According to AutoMag.co.ke, these incentives make EV ownership more attractive than ever.
These measures are paving the way for a broader range of EV models to enter the Kenyan market.
EV Models Available in Kenya
The variety of EVs in Kenya is expanding rapidly. Between 2022 and 2023, EV sales increased by 108%, and by May 2025, there were 9,047 registered EVs, including models from global brands like Volkswagen, Nissan, and Tesla. Experts predict that EV prices could match those of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles before 2025.
Local businesses are also stepping up. BasiGo, for instance, offers electric buses tailored to Kenyan needs through a pay-as-you-drive financing model. In October 2024, the company secured $41.5 million to expand its operations across East Africa. Roam (formerly Opibus) focuses on electrifying motorcycles, buses, and safari vehicles and raised $24 million in February 2024 to boost production. Kiri EV, known for its affordable electric motorcycles, dominates the market, with motorcycles accounting for nearly 90% of Kenya’s registered EVs. The second-hand EV market is also growing, thanks to platforms like Auto24 Kenya and Auto24.africa, which make EVs more accessible. Local assembly initiatives are being explored to further reduce costs. Meanwhile, Greenwheels Africa has partnered with Uber to expand its electric motorcycle fleet from 50 to 500 vehicles in just one year, facilitating over 700,000 passenger trips and covering more than 12 million kilometers.
Rules and Regulations
While financial incentives are a strong start, Kenya needs a more comprehensive regulatory framework to ensure long-term success in the EV market. The country has pledged to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 32% below business-as-usual levels by 2030 and already generates over 75% of its electricity from renewable sources. However, the lack of clear regulations for EVs creates uncertainty for investors and manufacturers, affecting areas like vehicle registration standards and charging infrastructure requirements.
"The new enthusiasm around EV in Kenya is a welcome move. However, the government should come up with regulations, legislations, and a policy framework that will incentivize EV use." – Samuel Mwangi, Energy Business
Steps are being taken to address these gaps. The National Climate Change Action Policy 2018–2022 outlines strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lays the groundwork for future EV regulations. KPLC and GIZ recently hosted an e-mobility conference to develop a roadmap for EV adoption in Kenya. Current regulations include a reduction in excise duty on fully electric vehicles from 20% to 10%. By the end of 2025, the government aims for 5% of all vehicle sales to be electric and has set an ambitious goal of achieving full EV adoption by 2040. Meeting these targets will require robust regulations that address vehicle standards, charging protocols, safety measures, and grid integration. The government is also investing in clean energy initiatives, such as solar-powered charging stations, and encouraging public-private partnerships to attract more companies into the EV sector.
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Pros and Cons of Switching to EVs
With advancements in infrastructure and government policies, it’s essential to weigh the personal trade-offs of switching to electric vehicles (EVs). For drivers in Kenya, going electric offers a mix of benefits and challenges. Taking a closer look at both sides can help you decide if now is the right time to make the switch.
Impact on Air Quality and Emissions
Switching to EVs offers significant environmental benefits for Kenya, particularly in reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality. On average, each EV in Kenya cuts carbon emissions by 4–5 tonnes annually compared to petrol-powered vehicles. With over 15,000 EVs currently on the road, this translates to an annual reduction of approximately 60,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
Kenya’s reliance on renewable energy further amplifies these benefits. Over 90% of the country’s electricity comes from renewable sources, giving EVs charged in Kenya a much smaller carbon footprint compared to regions dependent on fossil fuels. In fact, EVs in Kenya can lower CO₂ emissions by up to 50% relative to traditional vehicles.
Urban areas are already seeing tangible improvements. The existing EV fleet has cut particulate matter emissions by 8% in major cities. By 2030, reduced air pollution from EVs could lead to a 12% drop in respiratory illness rates in urban centers. If Kenya achieves its EV adoption targets, transport-related emissions could decrease by 15% by the same year.
The impact of these changes is evident through initiatives like BasiGo. Starting with just two electric buses in early 2022, the company expanded to over 28 vehicles by September 2024. In that time, BasiGo reports cutting over 1,000 tons of CO₂ emissions.
"Electric vehicles (EVs) typically have a smaller carbon footprint than gasoline cars, even when accounting for the electricity used for charging, plus they are far more efficient when it comes to energy use." – U.S. EPA
Purchase Price and Running Costs
While EV ownership comes with long-term savings, the high upfront costs remain a hurdle for many Kenyan consumers. EVs generally require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts, but concerns about battery lifespan and replacement costs persist. That said, reduced fuel and maintenance expenses, combined with government incentives, can help offset the initial investment over time.
Daily Use Challenges
Despite the clear environmental advantages and potential cost savings, owning and operating an EV in Kenya comes with practical challenges. The country’s charging network, though expanding, is still insufficient to meet the growing demand, particularly in rural areas. The government aims to install 10,000 EV charging stations by 2030, but for now, EV drivers must carefully plan their routes and charging stops.
Technical issues also complicate the charging process. Many EV charging systems lack interoperability, making it harder for drivers to access vendor-neutral charging options. For motorcycle users – who make up nearly 90% of Kenya’s registered EVs – reliance on slower Level 1 chargers can disrupt operations during busy hours. Additionally, the development of charging infrastructure has been inconsistent, leaving gaps in where and how drivers can charge their vehicles. Limited public awareness about EV benefits and the relatively high cost of electricity in Kenya further slow adoption.
Despite these challenges, EV adoption is growing. By 2024, over 7% of new motorcycle registrations were electric, and Kenya aims to have 5% of its vehicle stock electrified by 2025. As the charging network improves and awareness grows, planning ahead will be crucial for those considering the switch. Up next, we’ll provide a practical guide for Kenyan drivers navigating these factors.
EV Buying Guide for Kenyan Drivers
Thinking about switching to an electric vehicle (EV)? With Kenya’s EV market growing and charging infrastructure steadily improving, it’s a great time to assess whether an EV suits your lifestyle. Here’s how to evaluate your readiness and choose the right vehicle.
Evaluating Your EV Readiness
Start by looking at your driving habits, access to charging options, and comfort with EV technology. Most Kenyan drivers commute about 30–50 miles daily – a range well within the capabilities of most EVs. If your travel includes long-distance trips beyond major cities, you’ll need to consider the availability of public chargers along your routes.
Home charging is another crucial factor. If you have a dedicated parking spot with access to electricity, installing a home charging station can make owning an EV more convenient and cost-efficient compared to fueling a gas-powered car. However, if home charging isn’t an option, you’ll need to rely on public charging stations, which requires planning your trips in advance.
Access to public charging facilities is steadily improving. Kenya Power is actively expanding its network, with plans to install more stations each year. Check if your workplace or residence has designated EV charging spots to make daily charging easier.
Lastly, think about how comfortable you are with EV technology. Concerns like range anxiety are common but manageable. Matching your driving patterns with available charging solutions can help you feel more confident about making the switch.
Selecting the Best EV Model
Once you’ve evaluated your readiness, it’s time to choose an EV that fits your lifestyle and budget.
For budget-friendly options, consider models like the Nissan Leaf, which offers a 150-mile range – perfect for urban commutes. The Autopax AirEv YETU, with a range of 125–186 miles, is another affordable choice for shorter trips.
If you’re looking for a mid-range option, hybrid vehicles like the Toyota Aqua (approximately KSh 1.8 million) and the Honda Fit Hybrid (around KSh 1.9 million) might be worth considering. These hybrids combine fuel efficiency with the flexibility of a conventional engine, making them a practical choice for areas with fewer charging stations.
For premium EVs, models like the KIA EV6 (260-mile range), Hyundai Ioniq 5 (up to 239 miles), and Tesla Model 3 (with advanced autopilot features) offer extended ranges and cutting-edge technology. The Fiat 500e delivers a 200-mile range in a compact, retro-styled design.
Don’t overlook electric motorcycles, which make up nearly 90% of registered EVs in Kenya. These are especially popular for urban commutes and delivery services.
When selecting an EV, ensure its range exceeds your daily needs by at least 50 miles to account for battery degradation and unexpected detours.
Reliable Sources for EV Information
Stay up-to-date with Kenya’s evolving EV market by consulting reliable sources, such as:
- AutoMag.co.ke: Offers automotive news, reviews, and tips tailored to Kenyan drivers.
- AUTO24.co.ke: Provides vehicle listings, price comparisons, and dealer connections.
- Government announcements: Keep an eye on updates from the Ministry of Transport and Kenya Power for news on charging stations and EV incentives.
- Manufacturer websites: Brands like Autopax share detailed specs, warranties, and financing options.
- Industry reports: Track Kenya’s progress toward EV adoption and market trends.
You can also join local EV communities on social media or forums for advice from current owners. These groups often share useful tips on maintenance and real-world experiences, helping you make a well-informed purchase.
Conclusion: Should You Switch to an EV Now?
Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) market is gaining traction, with registrations jumping from just 65 units in 2018 to 4,047 units by 2023 – a clear sign of rapid growth. Electric motorcycles are also making their mark, accounting for over 3.3% of all new motorcycle registrations nationwide and exceeding 10% in Nairobi alone. The government’s push for a 5% EV share in vehicle imports by 2025 underscores its dedication to this shift.
For urban drivers, especially in Nairobi and other major cities, EV ownership is becoming increasingly practical and cost-efficient. The charging network is expanding quickly, with Kenya Power planning to add 45 new stations across six counties within the next year. Charging costs remain affordable at KSh17 ($0.13) per unit – considerably lower than the domestic electricity rate of KSh27 ($0.21).
Fleet operators and businesses stand to benefit significantly as well. EVs can slash service and fuel costs by 50–80% compared to traditional vehicles, while charging expenses are about 30–50% lower than fuel costs. This shift is already evident, with electricity consumption from the e-mobility sector soaring to 1.81GWh in the latter half of 2023, up from 0.32GWh the previous year.
However, the steep upfront cost – averaging $55,600, which is more than 70% higher than traditional vehicles – remains a significant hurdle. As Kenya Power’s Managing Director, Joseph Siror, puts it:
"We are working with the private sector players to identify the energy and infrastructure needs within the e-mobility space to inform the deployment of the right strategies that will accelerate EV adoption in Kenya",
For rural drivers or those regularly traveling long distances, the limited availability of charging stations and grid reliability issues make EVs less practical for now. Range anxiety is a valid concern when charging options are sparse in rural areas.
Ultimately, the decision to switch to an EV hinges on individual circumstances. While the initial investment is high, savings on fuel and maintenance, combined with tax incentives and an expanding charging network, could make the transition worthwhile for many. Still, affordability remains a significant challenge for widespread adoption.
FAQs
What challenges do rural areas in Kenya face when adopting electric vehicles?
Rural areas in Kenya encounter several hurdles when it comes to the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). One of the most pressing issues is the scarcity of charging stations, which makes recharging vehicles a challenge, particularly for those traveling long distances.
The higher upfront cost of EVs compared to traditional gas-powered cars is another significant obstacle. For many residents in rural regions, this price difference can put EVs out of reach. On top of that, range anxiety – the worry about running out of battery power before finding a charging station – remains a major concern due to the limited infrastructure available.
Overcoming these barriers will require serious investments in building charging networks, creating more affordable purchasing options, and raising awareness about the advantages of EVs to make them a viable choice for rural communities.
How do government incentives and tax breaks make electric vehicles more affordable in Kenya?
Government incentives and tax breaks in Kenya are helping to make electric vehicles (EVs) more affordable for consumers. These include import duty exemptions, VAT reductions, and excise duty exemptions, all of which can bring down the initial cost of buying an EV.
Through these financial measures, the government is working to boost EV adoption, support cleaner transportation, cut down on fuel reliance, and lessen environmental harm. For drivers in Kenya, this translates to a lower-cost way to switch to EVs while playing a part in building a greener future.
How are local companies driving the growth of electric vehicles in Kenya?
Local businesses are stepping up in a big way to shape Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) market. They’re tackling key challenges like charging infrastructure and affordability head-on. For instance, some companies are rolling out charging networks to make EVs more accessible, while others are producing electric motorcycles designed specifically for Kenya’s transportation needs. There’s also a strong push toward clean mobility solutions that fit the local context.
These companies are drawing on their deep understanding of Kenya’s unique transportation landscape to drive EV adoption. At the same time, they’re creating jobs and supporting efforts to reduce environmental impact. Their work is paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient future in Kenya’s transportation sector.
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