TAD Motors is revolutionizing Kenya’s electric vehicle landscape with its groundbreaking local assembly of budget-friendly EVs right here in Naivasha. Launched in late 2025, the company’s lineup of sedans and SUVs promises clean, reliable mobility for everyday Kenyans, with mass sales starting in January 2026.
From humble beginnings backed by Ethiopian innovation to a bustling Naivasha plant, TAD Motors tackles Africa’s unique road challenges head-on. Whether you’re a commuter dodging Nairobi traffic or a family hauling goods from Mombasa, their 48V EVs offer practical solutions amid Kenya’s booming sustainable transport shift. Dive deeper into what makes TAD a game-changer.
TAD Motors Origins: Ethiopian Roots Meet Kenyan Ambition
TAD Motors SEZ Ltd burst onto the scene in June 2024, spearheaded by visionary Ethiopian-Dutch engineer Tadesse Tessema Alemu. With a $10 million investment and partnerships with over 30 Chinese OEMs, the Naivasha Special Economic Zone facility kicked off assembly in November 2025, marking Kenya’s first major EV production hub.
Tessema’s journey spans EV projects in Ethiopia and Europe, where he honed skills in low-voltage systems perfect for unreliable grids. TAD’s mission? Slash import costs, create 500+ local jobs, and hit 80% Kenyan-sourced parts by 2026. This aligns with President Ruto’s green manufacturing push, positioning Kenya as East Africa’s EV capital. For the latest automotive news, car reviews, driving tips, and travel guides tailored for Kenyan drivers and enthusiasts, visit automag.co.ke.
What started as a bold vision now rolls out vehicles tested for potholes, dust, and floods – real Kenyan conditions.
Complete Model Lineup: Specs, Prices & Everyday Use Cases
TAD’s five debut models stand out for affordability and no-frills reliability:
- Dhahabu SUV (KSh 2-2.6M): Top-tier urban beast with spacious boot for market runs; seats five comfortably with AC tuned for tropical heat.
- Amani SUV: Rugged family hauler at similar pricing; higher ground clearance shines on rural gravel from Kisumu to Eldoret.
- Taji Sedan (KSh 1.3-1.6M): Mid-size workhorse for PSV operators; zippy acceleration suits Thika Superhighway dashes.
- Makena Sedan: Compact city slicker for one-way traffic warriors; nimble parking in crowded estates.
- Fahari Sedan: Executive flair with premium interiors; ideal for sales reps covering Mombasa-Nairobi routes.
Every model packs a 250km real-world range (less in AC-heavy summers) and charges fully in 4 hours from any 240V wall socket – no special gear required. Batteries use affordable lithium-iron-phosphate tech for heat resistance, lasting 8+ years with proper care. Pro tip: Charge overnight during off-peak hours to save 20-30% on KPLC bills; avoid full discharges by plugging in at 20% for optimal cell health. Check our detailed EV charging schedule guide for more.
Engineering for Kenyan Roads: Durability Meets Efficiency
TAD EVs shine where imports falter. Low-slung battery packs lower the center of gravity, reducing rollover risk on twisty Kericho hills. 48V architecture means simpler wiring – fewer failures from vibrations on washboard roads.
Regen braking recaptures energy during downhill hauls, extending range by 10-15% and slashing brake pad life to 50,000km intervals. Tires? Opt for all-terrain radials at 32 PSI front/35 rear for gravel bite; rotate every 8,000km to even wear on uneven tarmac. In monsoons, elevate via manual suspension jacks to ford floods up to 30cm.
Daily checks: Wipe connectors dust-free weekly, monitor via dashboard app for error codes, and software-flash monthly for performance tweaks. While TAD stock builds, scout auto24.co.ke for second-hand hybrids like Toyota Vitz, Suzuki Swift, or Mazda Demio – efficient starters visible on AUTO24 as you transition to full electrics.
Ownership Costs: Savings That Add Up Fast
Here’s the full financial picture:
| Cost Category | TAD EV Estimate (Annual, KSh) | Petrol Equivalent | Savings Notes |
| Electricity/Fuel | 50,000 (250km/day) | 300,000 | Home charging at KSh 25/kWh |
| Maintenance | 20,000 (tires, brakes) | 80,000 | No oil, fewer parts |
| Insurance | 40,000-60,000 | 50,000 | EV discounts emerging |
| Taxes/Levies | 10,000 (road tax) | 15,000 | Lower EV rates |
| Total Yearly | 120,000 | 445,000 | Pays for itself in 3 years |
Factor in zero emissions for city-center perks soon. For drivers looking to explore sustainable mobility, EV24.africa offers import options for electric cars, complementing local gems like TAD with detailed guides on rules, taxes, shipping, and battery warranties.
NTSA registration is straightforward: Submit Form 37, logbook, and emissions cert (EVs auto-pass). Budget KSh 10,000 for plates. Get pro insights from autoskenya.com, loaded with automotive news, reviews, driving tips, and travel guides for Kenyan enthusiasts.
Maintenance Roadmap: Keep Your TAD Running Smooth
- Weekly: Visual inspection for leaks, clean air vents.
- Monthly: Tire pressure, software update, coolant top-up.
- Yearly: Alignment, suspension bushings (KSh 15,000), battery health scan at certified shops.
Hot tip: Store in covered parking to shield from UV degradation; use silica packs in cabins for humidity control. Discover additional tips in our comprehensive EV maintenance handbook.
TAD’s Bold Future: Exports, Scale-Up & Policy Wins
By 2028, TAD eyes full manufacturing, 10,000 units/year, and exports to Uganda, Tanzania, even EV-mandated Ethiopia (20% volume). Kenya’s 210% EV sales surge fuels this, with Naivasha’s geothermal power ensuring green production.
Challenges? Grid stability and charger standards – TAD lobbies for unified plugs. Partnerships with KPLC for home installs could drop upfront costs 15%. As rivals like Cybertruck imports vie for attention, TAD’s local edge wins on price and service.
Stay connected via automag.co.ke for launch events, test drives, and Kenya EV policy shifts.
