The Surge Of Electric And Hybrid Cars In Kenya

The transport sector around the world is shifting. With calls from the different world leaders and stakeholders pushing for virtually every sector to go green, the transport sector within and without the region has not been left behind.

Although the adoption of clean transport through electric and hybrid cars is still at infant stages in most parts of the world, especially in Africa, and more so in Kenya, as the days pass by, it keeps on dawning on millions of people that change is coming and there is no going back.

Globally, stats show that the total electric car registrations increased by 41 percent during the year, despite the overall worldwide downturn in car sales. Industry experts predict that there could be as many as 230 million EVs in use around the world by 2030. At the same time, EV sales in Kenya increased 108% in the 2022-2023 financial year and that translated to 8.3% of new sales market share and with big projections ahead.

With the above said and done, in recent days, Kenya has emerged as a front-runner in embracing innovation and sustainable solutions. As the country confronts the challenges of urbanization, pollution, and transportation, the growth of electric and autonomous vehicles (EVs and AVs) presents a transformative opportunity.

With their potential to revolutionize the way we commute, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance road safety, EVs and AVs are paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient, and futuristic transport landscape in Kenya.

Kenya’s commitment to combating climate change is exemplified by its adoption of electric vehicles. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing carbon footprints and improving air quality. Currently, it is no longer strange to see an electric bus on the streets of Nairobi with many public service providers trying to outdo each other in purchasing electric buses.

The growth of the electric vehicle industry in Kenya presents promising economic prospects. The embracing of them presents opportunities for local manufacturing and assembly of EV components, such as batteries and charging infrastructure, the country can foster job creation and attract investments.

“It is encouraging to see how the markets and people are excited about electric cars… This shows that people are accepting the future reality and are ready to embrace it,” said Victor Magaki, the Autochek Africa Regional HR, EA.

There is no doubt that autonomous vehicles have the potential to significantly reduce road accidents, which remain a major concern in Kenya. AVs utilize advanced technologies such as sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence algorithms to navigate and respond to their surroundings.

What is more, AVs can optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and minimize travel times. In Kenya’s densely populated urban areas, this can be a game-changer, making commuting more efficient and accessible to all. AVs can also benefit people with limited mobility, providing them with newfound independence and access to transportation options that were previously unavailable.

AVs generate a wealth of data regarding traffic patterns, road conditions, and travel behavior. This data can be leveraged by policymakers and urban planners to make informed decisions regarding infrastructure development, traffic management, and transportation policies, but are we ready as a country for all these?

The truth is, as much as electric vehicles and all that accompany them come with so many advantages and opportunities, the question still remains as to whether Kenya is ready. Currently, the country is not that equipped for all the changes within the transport sector.

The Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) is still struggling to satisfy Kenyans in terms of power supply and many are of the opinion that it might not have the capacity to handle millions of electric cars. But change is coming. Slowly but it is coming.