NAIROBI, Kenya– Simba Corporation has taken a significant leap towards sustainable mobility by delivering the first all-electric Mahindra XUV400 Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) to Kenya Power.
This delivery marks a milestone in Kenya’s journey towards eco-friendly transportation and reducing carbon emissions.
David Mugambi, Head of Transport at Kenya Power, emphasized the importance of this move in the country’s environmental strategy.
“Reducing emissions within the transport space is crucial for our goal to be carbon neutral,” Mugambi stated.
The two Mahindra XUV400 EVs are part of six electric vehicles (EVs) acquired by the utility firm this year, with plans to expand their fleet to nine EVs and 25 electric motorcycles by December 2024.
Mugambi highlighted Kenya’s readiness to support significant EV growth, boasting an installed energy capacity of 3,246 megawatts, well above the peak demand of 2,300 megawatts and an off-peak load of 1,100 megawatts as of December 2023.
“We have adequate energy to power the electric mobility space for the next five years,” Mugambi noted, underlining the country’s potential for a robust EV infrastructure.
Kenya has seen a notable increase in the number of EVs on its roads, currently estimated at about 2,100, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers.
This surge positions Kenya as a leader in EV adoption across Africa. In May 2024, Chinese EV maker MojaEV introduced its first EVs in Kenya, specifically targeting cab drivers, reflecting the growing interest in electric transportation.
Government initiatives also play a crucial role in this transition. Efforts to modernize fleets and reduce carbon emissions are evident, with the launch of EV charging stations in Nairobi and plans to expand to other major towns.
These steps aim to ensure a sustainable transport system while minimizing pollution.