Kenyan electric mobility firm, BasiGo, is taking a significant step towards revolutionizing public transportation. It is doing so with the launch of its first pilot program for electric matatus on inter-city routes. This initiative marks a crucial expansion of the company’s operations beyond Nairobi. It brings clean, zero-emission transport options to regional corridors. The introduction of electric matatus broadens environmentally friendly transit in these areas.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
BasiGo has strategically partnered with two prominent Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Saccos, 4NTE and Manchester Travellers Coach. They leverage their extensive experience in long-distance travel. Under the program, 4NTE Sacco will deploy electric matatus on the Nyahururu-Nyeri and Nyahururu-Nakuru routes. Meanwhile, Manchester Sacco will focus on the Thika-Nairobi corridor, thereby enhancing the network of electric matatus.
Also Read: BasiGo partners with AC Mobility to bring Electric Buses to Rwanda!
How Far Can They Go?
Each electric van boasts a range of up to 300 kilometers on a single charge and can be fully recharged in approximately 1.5 hours. To ensure seamless inter-city operations, BasiGo has invested in the installation of charging stations. These are in key locations, including Nyahururu and Thika, to support electric matatus and facilitate their reliability.
Affordable Options for Operators
To facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles, BasiGo offers a Pay-As-You-Drive lease model. It is designed to reduce the upfront financial burden for operators transitioning to an electric fleet. This innovative financing approach aims to democratize access to electric mobility. It also accelerates its integration into the Kenyan transport system, making electric matatus an attainable option.
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From BasiGo’s Leaders
“We are thrilled to extend electric mobility beyond Nairobi and electrify an iconic part of Kenya’s history – the matatu,” stated Moses Nderitu, Managing Director, Kenya at BasiGo. “By partnering with visionary SACCOs like 4NTE and Manchester, we are demonstrating the practicality and feasibility of electric mobility for intercity and intercounty transit, particularly focusing on the electric matatus transport model.”
Support from 4NTE Sacco
Wilfred Daniel Kimotho, Chairman of 4NTE Sacco, echoed this sentiment. He stated, “We are excited to be early adopters of this technology, especially along inter-city and inter-county routes. 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, particularly with electric matatus.”
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Looking Ahead
This program is just part of BasiGo’s bigger plan to have over 1,000 electric vans, including electric matatus, across Kenya in the next few years. It’s also a great step to help the country move towards greener energy!
