Kenya rolls out first intercity electric matatus in major green transport push
The vehicles will be offered through BasiGo’s Pay-As-You-Drive lease model, designed to ease the cost burden on matatu operators transitioning to electric transport.
Kenya has launched its first pilot programme for electric matatus on intercity routes, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to decarbonise public transport.
The initiative is being led by Nairobi-based electric mobility startup BasiGo, in partnership with two public transport SACCOs, 4NTE and Manchester Travellers Coach.
More To Read
- Rwandan capital Kigali introduces modern road cleaning technology
- Rwanda explores Vehicle-to-Grid technology to boost energy efficiency, adoption of electric vehicles
- City Hall targets matatu chaos with new operating rules
- E-mobility drive: Kenya Power to install 45 EV charging stations across six counties
- Matatu industry players calls for urgent government reforms to end lawlessness on roads
- Khalwale withdraws Bill seeking to regulate boda boda industry after public outcry
BasiGo aims to revolutionise public transport in Kenya and across Sub-Saharan Africa by introducing clean, affordable electric vehicles. This marks the first deployment of electric matatus outside the capital.
Under the pilot, 16- and 19-seater electric vans will operate on the Nyahururu to Nyeri, Nyahururu to Nakuru, and Thika to Nairobi corridors. Each electric van offers a range of up to 300 kilometres on a single charge and can be recharged in just 1.5 hours. To support the pilot, BasiGo has installed DC fast charging stations in Nyahururu and Thika.
The vehicles will be offered through BasiGo’s Pay-As-You-Drive lease model, designed to ease the cost burden on matatu operators transitioning to electric transport.
According to BasiGo’s Kenya Managing Director, Moses Nderitu, the launch is an important step towards transforming Kenya’s iconic matatu system into a cleaner and more sustainable solution.
“By partnering with visionary SACCOs like 4NTE and Manchester, we’re showing that electric mobility is not only possible but practical for intercity and inter-county transit,” he said.
4NTE SACCO will operate electric vans on the Nyahururu to Nyeri and Nyahururu to Nakuru routes, while Manchester SACCO will serve the Thika to Nairobi route.
BasiGo also plans to assemble the electric vans locally in Kenya, creating new opportunities for job creation and skills development in the clean energy sector. The company will provide full after-sales support, including servicing and maintenance.
“We are excited to be early adopters of this technology, especially along intercity and inter-county routes,” said Wilfred Daniel Kimotho, Chairman of 4NTE SACCO.
“This is about embracing innovation and delivering better service to our customers. This partnership places us at the forefront of a transport revolution that is electric, efficient, and built for the future,” he said.
BasiGo aims to deploy over 1,000 electric vans across Kenya in the coming years, supporting the country’s climate goals while enhancing public mobility between counties.
Top Stories Today
