BasiGo has launched an Electric Bus production line at Thika's Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) plant, marking the country’s inaugural assembly line for contemporary Electric Buses.
BasiGo achieved a significant milestone in February 2024 by completing the assembly of two E9 Kubwa buses tailored specifically for the Kenyan PSV market.
Speaking when she flagged off the first two E9 Kubwa buses, Investments, Trae & Industry Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the 9-meter electric buses are poised to revolutionize public transport in Kenya.
Miano also said that the government’s primary objectives are combatting climate change and curbing greenhouse gas emissions.
The transportation sector significantly contributes to carbon emissions, and transitioning to electric vehicles offers a sustainable solution to mitigate environmental degradation and counter the adverse impacts of climate change,” Miano said.
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Officials said the buses will now operate with Citi Hoppa and Super Metro, both electrifying their fleets.
Further, Miano said that the inauguration of the new assembly line marks a significant stride towards sustainability for Kenya’s public transportation system.
“The government acknowledges the pivotal role that investments like BasiGo play in propelling economic growth, fostering employment opportunities, and enhancing the livelihoods of our citizens.”
“That is why we have prioritized creating a conducive business and investment climate, accompanied by robust policies, regulatory streamlining, and strategic incentives aimed at attracting and retaining investors,” she added.
On his part, BasiGo Co-Founder and CEO Jit Bhattacharya expressed gratitude to the government for supporting BasiGo in scaling up the electrification of public transport in Kenya.
“The shift to clean, electric buses presents Kenya with an opportunity to establish itself as a manufacturing hub for modern EVs and their components. We take pride in supporting Kenya’s pioneering role by inaugurating this groundbreaking E-Bus assembly line in collaboration with KVM,” he said.
BasiGo plans to assemble 1,000 E-Buses locally for Kenyan bus operators over the next three years, a venture set to generate 300 green manufacturing jobs in Kenya.
Already, BasiGo has received over 500 orders from bus operators in Nairobi and an additional 100 reservations from operators in Kigali, Rwanda.
