Kenya is set to establish its first electric vehicle (EV) assembly plant by utilising Chinese technology to promote green transportation across East Africa.
The opening of Neta, a Chinese EV maker's flagship showroom in Nairobi last month, marked the first step towards realising this vision.
Eric Lumallas, assistant to the CEO of Moja EV Kenya, the exclusive distributor of Neta cars in Africa, announced at the opening ceremony that local assembly of Neta cars is scheduled to commence in the next two months.
The company has also partnered with local organisations to ensure nationwide vehicle servicing, Lumallas said.
“We are in discussions with commercial banks to offer financial support to our customers. Lumallas noted in an article appearing in China Daily.
The official said each car includes two chargers: one for home installation and an emergency charger for on-the-go use. They take 15 to 20 minutes to be fully charged.
Joy Wanyonyi, head of business development at Kenyan Automobile Company Associated Vehicle Assemblers, said local assembly of the vehicles will provide job opportunities for Kenyans while facilitating technology transfer and sectoral growth.
Neta is planning to assemble 250 vehicles per month and the market uptake is expected to be good, Wanyonyi said. She also commended government efforts to revise policies to enhance the EV market’s viability.
“If the proposed national locomotive policy is implemented and specifically reducing taxes on electric vehicles, then we will sell more at a better price,” she said.
Wang Aiping, chief executive of Moja EV Kenya, said opening the showroom in Nairobi marks the beginning of a new chapter in Kenya’s automotive industry.
“Our journey to this grand opening has been fuelled by a commitment to excellence, sustainability and the vision of a greener present and future for Kenya,” Wang said.
The world is rapidly shifting towards sustainable energy solutions, Wang said, adding that EVs are at the forefront of the revolution.
“By choosing electric vehicles, we are not just adopting a new mode of transportation; we are contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for us, our children and future generations.”
Sun Guang, assistant vice-president and executive of the overseas business division of Neta, said that although Kenya has about 30,000 taxis, the proportion of EVs remains extremely low, with only 100 second-hand electric cars in operation.
“This indicates significant untapped potential in the country’s electric vehicle market,” Sun said.
Currently, Neta offers its Neta V model in Kenya, with plans to introduce others such as the Neta A model in Kenya, with plans to introduce others such as the Neta Aya and Neta X, he said.