(Nairobi) – MojaEV has launched 100 NETA V electric cars aimed at the city’s taxi market. This initiative represents a major push towards the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Kenya, a country where the EV market has remained relatively small but is showing signs of growth. MojaEV plans to lease these vehicles to taxi drivers, offering them an affordable and sustainable alternative to traditional petrol-powered cars.
The first 20 NETA V electric vehicles have already been handed over to taxi drivers, with the remaining 80 expected to be delivered by the end of the year. MojaEV’s goal is to introduce 500 NETA V electric cars by mid-2025, marking a significant increase in Kenya’s electric car fleet. This move comes at a time when Kenya’s electric vehicle market is still in its infancy, with only 201 electric cars registered between 2018 and 2023.
The NETA V electric vehicle boasts a number of features designed to attract taxi drivers looking for a more economical way to operate their vehicles. The electric motor is a permanent magnet synchronous type, offering 70 kW (95 PS) of power, with a driving range of up to 401 kilometers on a full charge, depending on the testing standard. The vehicle’s battery capacity stands at 40.7 kWh, and it can be fast-charged from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for taxi operators.
For taxi drivers in Nairobi, the economic benefits of using an electric vehicle are substantial. MojaEV highlights that electric vehicles typically have lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. This makes them a more cost-effective option for drivers who often face tight financial margins. Additionally, MojaEV has partnered with financial institutions to provide a payment system that allows taxi drivers to pay directly into their bank accounts. This system will help drivers build financial histories, opening up opportunities for loans and other financial services.
Nairobi, with a population of 4.5 million, has a significant demand for taxi services, as around 60% of the city’s population relies on public transport. However, only 11% of Nairobi’s population uses digital-hailing taxis, indicating a large untapped market for efficient and environmentally friendly taxi services. MojaEV’s entry into the market aims to meet this demand, providing a green and sustainable solution to the city’s growing transport needs.
The move to introduce 500 electric taxis in Nairobi is a bold one, given that the city’s electric vehicle fleet is still quite small. However, the success of electric motorcycles in Kenya, where sales of electric bikes rose to 3.6% of total motorcycle sales in 2023, offers optimism for the future of electric cars. With the growing middle class in Kenya, the demand for environmentally friendly and cost-effective transport options is expected to increase, further fueling the growth of the electric vehicle market.
In addition to its electric taxis, MojaEV is also expanding its offerings by selling Skyworth electric SUVs to fleet operators and general consumers. These SUVs, known for their luxury and performance, represent another step in MojaEV’s plan to promote zero-emissions vehicles in Kenya. The Skyworth SUVs are equipped with all-electric powertrains, making them an ideal choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying comfort and style.
MojaEV’s CEO, Mr. Wang, emphasized the importance of this initiative during a recent customer delivery event, noting that the Skyworth SUVs are not just about luxury but also about contributing to Kenya’s climate action goals. By offering these vehicles, MojaEV is helping to drive Kenya’s broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition towards more sustainable transportation solutions.
The launch of 100 NETA V electric taxis is a promising development for Nairobi’s transport sector. As the city faces challenges related to traffic congestion and air pollution, MojaEV’s initiative offers a solution that could lead to significant improvements in both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency for taxi drivers. With more electric vehicles expected to hit the streets over the next few years, MojaEV’s efforts could play a key role in shaping the future of transportation in Kenya.