BasiGo, a Kenyan electric mobility startup, unveiled its electric bus production line at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers plant in Thika. Marking the country’s first specialised assembly line for modern electric buses.
This development comes two weeks after Kenya published and launched a draft of its National E-mobility Policy. This is expected to encourage local production and assembly of electric vehicles (EVs).
The policy aims to develop and review a legal and regulatory framework to facilitate EV adoption and establish zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales targets and investment criteria for domestic car manufacturers and assemblers seeking government incentives.
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On April 10, 2024, a report stated that the electric vehicle company would deploy 1,000 electric buses over the next three years to transform public transport in East Africa. It also planned to assemble 1,000 E-Buses in Kenya for local operators in the next three years, generating 300 green manufacturing jobs.
So far, it has received over 500 orders from bus operators in Nairobi and 100 reservations from operators in Kigali, Rwanda.
Funding from CFAO Group
In March 2024, the company received KSh396 million ($3 million) in equity funding from CFAO Group to expand electric bus production in Kenya and Rwanda.
Rebecca Miano, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, stated at the assembly line inauguration yesterday that the government is committed to addressing climate change by reducing carbon emissions.
“One of the key priorities of the Government is addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The transport sector is a significant contributor to carbon emissions and transitioning to electric vehicles presents a sustainable solution to mitigate environmental degradation and address the negative effects of climate change,” Miano added.
In July 2023, BasiGo expanded into Rwanda. It partnered with AC Mobility, a Rwandan supplier of automated fare collection systems for public transportation. To carry out this expansion and address fleet shortages in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns BasiGo?
It was founded in 2021 by Jonathan Green and Jit Bhattacharya.
What is the business model of BasiGo?
BasiGo offers a Pay-As-You-Drive model, facilitating access to electric buses for Nairobi bus owners. The buses can be purchased or leased with a low initial payment and an affordable mileage-based fee.
How big is the battery in the BasiGo?
E9 Kubwa is powered by a 210kWh LFP battery from CATL, the global leader in EV batteries. This state-of-the-art battery is certified to the highest international safety standards and backed by an 8-year / 600,000km warranty.
Who is the CEO of BasiGo Kenya?
BasiGo co-founder and CEO Jit Bhattacharya hailed Mr Nderitu’s promotion. Saying he is the best-placed person to lead the firm in realising its vision of propelling Kenya to be a global leader in clean energy usage.
Who are the competitors of BasiGo in Kenya?
Some similar startups to BasiGo are Nexta, Fundamo, and Payday.
How much is the electric bus in Kenya?
Through its Pay-As-You-Drive financing model, BasiGo is offering the 36-seater electric bus for a purchase price of Ksh 7.5 Million and a mileage-based subscription of Ksh 40 per km for charging and maintenance provided by BasiGo.
