Looking to import an electric car into Kenya? EV24.africa simplifies the process, offering over 200 EV models from 25+ global brands. Kenya’s push for cleaner transportation, backed by renewable energy and government incentives, makes this a smart move for both your wallet and the environment. Here’s what you need to know:
- Why EVs? Save on costs with charging up to 50% cheaper than fuel and lower maintenance expenses (50–80% less). Plus, EVs help reduce pollution and improve urban health.
- Platform Benefits: EV24.africa handles everything – vehicle sourcing, customs clearance, and delivery (door-to-door or port-to-port) – making EV imports straightforward.
- Kenyan Rules: Cars must be under 8 years old, right-hand drive, and have at least 80% battery capacity. EV24.africa ensures compliance with these regulations.
- Government Incentives: Reduced taxes (10% import duty, no VAT or excise duty) make EVs more affordable than ever.
Costs: For a vehicle priced at $5,000, expect additional taxes and fees around $1,650, but long-term savings on fuel and maintenance offset these costs.
With EV24.africa, you can import an electric car in 4–8 weeks and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Ready to make the switch? Let EV24.africa handle the details.
How to Import Electric Cars with EV24.africa
Choosing Your Electric Car
EV24.africa provides a broad selection of electric vehicles, complete with detailed specifications like battery capacity, range, charging features, and safety ratings. With user-friendly filters, you can narrow down your choices by price, model year, or other key features. This makes it easier to find an electric car that matches your lifestyle and fits your budget. Once you’ve picked the right vehicle, the next step is to request a detailed quote and finalize your purchase.
Getting a Quote and Making Your Purchase
After selecting your ideal car, you’ll receive a clear pricing breakdown in US Dollars (USD), covering the car’s cost, shipping fees, and taxes. EV24.africa offers two pricing options: Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) for a hands-off experience or Free on Board (FOB) for buyers who prefer more involvement in the shipping and customs process.
- DDP: EV24.africa takes care of everything, including customs clearance and final delivery.
- FOB: You manage shipping and customs clearance yourself, giving you more control over the process.
For country-specific pricing and tax details, you can contact EV24.africa directly. Once you’ve reviewed and confirmed all purchase details, the next step is to select your preferred shipping method.
Shipping and Getting Your Car Delivered
EV24.africa handles shipping to all 54 African countries, with Kenyan customers receiving their vehicles via the Port of Mombasa. You can choose between two delivery options:
- Door-to-door: Your car is delivered directly to your location for maximum convenience.
- Port-to-port: Save on costs by arranging the final leg of transportation yourself.
Delivery times typically range from 4 to 8 weeks after purchase. EV24.africa keeps you informed every step of the way with real-time tracking, so you can monitor your car’s journey.
Here are the two shipping methods available:
| Shipping Method | Cost | Vehicle Condition | Protection Level | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) | Lower cost | Must be operational | Limited exposure protection | Faster transit |
| Container Shipping | Higher cost | Can be non-operational | Fully enclosed security | Slightly slower |
RoRo shipping is more budget-friendly and quicker but requires the vehicle to be in working condition. Container shipping, on the other hand, provides better protection and can accommodate non-operational vehicles, though it costs more and takes slightly longer.
EV24.africa also handles customs clearance, registration, and import taxes. Their experienced team manages all the necessary paperwork and works with Kenyan authorities to ensure a smooth import process.
"EV24.Africa is a strategic move aligned with our mission to reshape mobility in Africa." – Axel Peyriere, co-founder and CEO of Auto24.Africa
When choosing your delivery method, weigh factors like your budget, timeline, and whether you need extra services, such as customs assistance. The EV24.africa team is always available to help you decide on the best option for your specific needs and location within Kenya.
Import Rules and Requirements for Kenya
8-Year Age Limit for Imported Cars
Kenya enforces a strict 8-year age limit on imported vehicles to maintain safety and quality standards. For example, if you’re importing a car in 2025, it must have been manufactured in 2017 or later. This rule applies across the board – whether you’re a returning resident, a diplomat, or a member of the general public.
If you’re using EV24.africa for your import, double-check the vehicle’s manufacturing date. The platform provides documentation, including the vehicle’s first registration date, to help you stay compliant. Also, confirm that the vehicle’s battery meets Kenya’s standards.
Battery Health Requirements
Imported used electric vehicles (EVs) must have at least 80% battery capacity to be eligible for entry into Kenya. This regulation aims to address concerns about battery degradation and reduce electronic waste.
"all used / second-hand electric motor vehicles must have battery life not less than 80% to be allowed for importation into the country." – Esther Ngari, Managing Director of KEBS
When importing through EV24.africa, ensure the vehicle includes proper certification verifying its battery health. This step helps protect buyers from ending up with EVs that may soon need costly battery replacements. Additionally, make sure the vehicle complies with inspection and drive configuration rules, outlined below.
Inspection and Right-Hand Drive Rules
Every vehicle imported into Kenya must pass a pre-shipment inspection conducted by an agent appointed by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) in the country of export. This inspection ensures the vehicle meets roadworthiness, safety, and regulatory standards. Once approved, the vehicle receives a Certificate of Roadworthiness (CoR) from a KEBS-certified inspection company.
Kenya also only permits the import of right-hand drive vehicles, aligning with the country’s traffic laws where vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Therefore, if you’re selecting an EV through EV24.africa, confirm that it is right-hand drive.
Vehicles exported from countries with KEBS-approved inspection agencies – such as Japan, UAE, UK, Thailand, Singapore, and South Africa – must complete the inspection before shipping. EV24.africa works directly with these agencies to ensure your vehicle meets all necessary requirements.
These measures are in place to guarantee that imported EVs adhere to Kenya’s strict safety and operational guidelines.
| Requirement | Description/Rate |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Age Limit | Max 8 years (2017+ for 2025) |
| Vehicle Type | Right-hand drive only |
| Vehicle Inspection | CoR from KEBS-approved agency |
Once your electric vehicle has cleared customs and arrived in Kenya, the final step is registration with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) via the eCitizen portal. To complete this process, you’ll need valid insurance and payment of registration fees.
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Why Choose EV24.africa for Your Import
Navigating Kenya’s strict import regulations can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs). This is where EV24.africa steps in, offering a seamless solution for Kenyan EV imports. By managing every step of the process, the platform simplifies what is often a complicated and time-consuming endeavor. With access to over 200 EV models from more than 25 global brands, buyers can explore a wide range of options to find the perfect fit for their needs and preferences.
EV24.africa’s operations span all 54 African countries, with a special focus on Kenya. This broad network ensures Kenyan customers receive the same high-quality service and support as buyers in other major markets across the continent.
Comprehensive Support from Start to Finish
EV24.africa provides a complete import service, taking care of everything from sourcing the vehicle to delivering it anywhere in Kenya. For buyers unfamiliar with international shipping or customs procedures, this one-stop solution removes the stress and guesswork.
The platform sources vehicles from key global markets and offers flexible shipping options under Incoterms like Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) and Free on Board (FOB). Leveraging regional hubs, they ensure timely and secure delivery. Buyers can choose between door-to-door and port-to-port services, depending on their budget and convenience.
Import complexities, such as customs clearance, tax paperwork, and registration, are all handled by EV24.africa. Their all-inclusive approach guarantees compliance with local regulations, saving buyers time and potential headaches.
Transparent Pricing and Detailed Listings
One of EV24.africa’s standout features is its commitment to transparent pricing. Vehicle specifications and prices are displayed in USD, giving Kenyan buyers a clear understanding of what they’re purchasing and what it will cost. This straightforward approach eliminates hidden fees, a common issue in international vehicle transactions.
For example, the platform lists models like the LINGBOX UNI for $4,800, the GEELY PANDA MINI BASE for $5,880, and the DONGFENG eπ 008 EV for $28,700. Each listing includes detailed specifications, helping buyers make well-informed decisions based on their needs and budget.
"Africa is ready for electric vehicles, and EV24.africa is committed to making this transition smooth and accessible. Our goal is to provide a reliable, transparent, and competitive marketplace for EV buyers across the continent." – Axel Peyriere, Co-Founder and CEO of AUTO24.africa
This emphasis on transparency builds trust among Kenyan buyers, many of whom may be wary of the uncertainties tied to international purchases. Additionally, EV24.africa offers expert guidance to help buyers navigate Kenya’s regulatory landscape with confidence.
Simplifying Shipping and Regulatory Hurdles
Kenya’s import regulations can be complex, but EV24.africa’s expertise makes the process much more manageable. With a team of over 200 professionals across five African countries, the platform brings extensive knowledge of the regulatory requirements specific to each market.
For Kenyan imports, EV24.africa ensures compliance with key standards, including the 8-year age limit for vehicles, battery health certification, and right-hand drive verification. By addressing these requirements before shipping, the platform avoids costly delays or rejections at customs.
Buyers can also benefit from real-time tracking, which allows them to monitor their vehicle’s journey from purchase to delivery. This feature not only provides peace of mind but also helps buyers prepare for final registration steps.
The platform’s dedicated customer support team is available throughout the entire process, offering assistance with documentation and addressing any unexpected issues. With partnerships in over 40 countries, EV24.africa ensures smooth exports that comply with regulations in both the source and destination markets.
For those looking for a fully professional import experience, EV24.africa offers comprehensive quotes covering every aspect of the journey – from purchase to registration. This service eliminates uncertainty, giving buyers a clear and reliable roadmap for their EV import.
Costs and Money-Saving Opportunities
When thinking about importing an electric vehicle (EV) with EV24.africa, it’s essential to look at both the upfront expenses and the long-term financial benefits. Beyond the initial purchase and import costs, EVs come with ongoing savings and government incentives that make them a smart investment. Let’s break down these costs to see how they add up.
Car Prices and Import Taxes
Importing an EV involves more than just the sticker price. For example, if you’re importing a vehicle priced at KES 700,000, here’s how the taxes stack up:
- Excise Duty (10%): KES 70,000
- VAT (16%): KES 123,200
- Import Declaration Fee (3.5%): KES 24,500
- Railway Development Levy (2%): KES 14,000
That brings the total tax estimate to around KES 231,700. On top of this, there are additional costs to consider, such as registration fees (KES 10,000–20,000), annual insurance (KES 30,000–50,000), and clearing and port charges (KES 60,000–80,000). Altogether, the total estimated cost for this vehicle comes to approximately KES 1,001,700. Keep in mind, these are earlier estimates, and recent policy changes may have lowered some of these costs.
Lower Running Costs
One of the biggest advantages of EVs is their lower operating costs. Charging an electric car is 30–50% cheaper than refueling a traditional gas-powered car, and maintenance costs can be up to 40% less. Over time, these savings help offset the higher upfront costs of purchasing an EV. Combined with more favorable import policies, EVs become an even more attractive option for buyers.
Government Incentives in Kenya
Kenya’s government has made significant strides to encourage EV adoption. In March 2024, the National E-Mobility Policy introduced several financial perks for EV buyers:
- Lower import duty: EVs are taxed at 10%, compared to 35% for fuel-powered vehicles.
- Excise duty exemption: No excise duty applies to EVs.
- VAT exemption: The usual 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) is waived.
These incentives dramatically cut the cost of importing EVs, making them more affordable. By the end of 2023, Kenya had registered 3,753 electric vehicles – five times more than in 2022 – a clear sign of growing trust in EV technology. Additionally, both the government and financial institutions are working on affordable financing options and expanding the charging infrastructure to support the transition to electric mobility.
Conclusion
Bringing an electric vehicle (EV) into Kenya has never been easier, thanks to EV24.africa and supportive government policies. With deep regional knowledge, EV24.africa manages every critical step – from sourcing the vehicle to clearing customs – offering a dependable delivery timeline of just 4 to 8 weeks.
This process highlights EV24.africa’s dedication to making EV ownership straightforward.
"Our goal is clear – to make electric mobility accessible to every corner of Africa", says Axel Peyriere, CEO of AUTO24.africa.
In addition to simplifying logistics, the financial benefits make EV adoption in Kenya even more appealing. Kenya’s tax incentives for electric vehicles – 25% import duty and 10% excise duty – paired with EV24.africa’s transparent pricing and comprehensive services, create a compelling case for switching to sustainable transportation.
For Kenyans looking to embrace electric mobility, EV24.africa delivers a hassle-free import experience.
FAQs
What are the main advantages of importing an electric car to Kenya through EV24.africa?
Importing an electric car to Kenya through EV24.africa comes with some standout advantages. For starters, electric vehicles (EVs) are much cheaper to run. They don’t rely on costly fuel, and their maintenance needs are far less demanding compared to traditional gas-powered cars. On top of that, EVs are better for the environment, helping cut down on air pollution and shrinking your carbon footprint.
Kenya also makes owning an EV easier by offering government incentives like reduced import duties and VAT exemptions, which help bring down the cost. EV24.africa takes the hassle out of the importing process by providing expert advice, handling logistics, and giving you access to a variety of electric cars – all to make switching to cleaner, greener transportation as seamless as possible.
How does EV24.africa help ensure imported electric cars meet Kenya’s regulations?
EV24.africa simplifies the process of importing electric vehicles to Kenya by taking care of all the regulatory steps. They handle customs clearance, vehicle registration, and ensure the vehicles meet Kenya’s safety and emission standards, including any age-related restrictions. On top of that, they deal with all required import duties and taxes, making the entire experience straightforward and stress-free for buyers.
What tax incentives are available for importing electric vehicles into Kenya, and how do they affect the overall cost?
Kenya has introduced tax breaks to make importing electric vehicles (EVs) easier on the wallet. Fully electric vehicles enjoy a 0% import duty, while the excise duty is lowered to just 10% of the CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) value. On top of that, a 16% VAT is applied to the combined CIF and excise duty.
These measures help cut down the overall expense of bringing EVs into the country. By reducing financial barriers, Kenya is encouraging more people to embrace EVs as a greener and more affordable transportation choice, aligning with efforts to promote sustainable mobility.
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