NAIROBI, Kenya – In a move towards sustainable transport and reducing carbon emissions, Zetech University has unveiled a state-of-the-art electric tuk-tuk.
This innovative vehicle, powered by rechargeable batteries and integrated solar panels, marks a significant step forward in Kenya’s transport sector.
Prof. Gitau Kamau, a lecturer at Zetech University, introduced the electric tuk-tuk during the university’s Innovation Week.
“We have assembled the tuk-tuk, equipped it with electric motors and solar panels to recharge its batteries once they get drained. It is noiseless, cost-effective, and clean,” Prof. Kamau explained.
The engineless tuk-tuk boasts a battery life of over 100 km and a top speed exceeding 60 km/hr, making it both efficient and practical for urban transport.
With a price tag of Sh450,000, the electric tuk-tuk is slightly more expensive than its traditional counterparts.
However, the long-term savings on fuel costs and the environmental benefits make it a worthwhile investment.
“The vehicle doesn’t use fuel, thus reducing carbon emissions and making it cost-effective, especially during this time of high fuel prices,” Kamau emphasized.
Despite its promise, the electric tuk-tuk faces challenges in mass production, primarily due to the high cost of e-mobility equipment.
Prof. Kamau called on the government to introduce policies that support e-mobility and reduce excise duties on necessary components.
“The tuk-tuks are made of steel, which is quite expensive. If only the cost of steel and other accessories can be lowered, mass production would become cheaper and more feasible,” he noted.
Kenya is aiming for a significant shift to electric vehicles by 2027, aligning with the government’s agenda to mitigate climate change through reduced carbon emissions.
Former Investment, Trade, and Industrialisation CS Rebecca Maino highlighted the government’s efforts, including the Draft National Electric Mobility Policy.
This policy proposes incentives such as reducing excise duty on electric vehicles to 10 percent, as outlined in the Finance Act, 2023, and revising the Integrated National Transport Policy (2009) to accommodate electric vehicles.
Prof. Kamau also urged county governments to allow electric tuk-tuks to operate freely within Central Business Districts (CBDs) to leverage their benefits for carbon credit trading.
With supportive policies and infrastructure, Kenya can pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable transport future.
