Faith Nyasuguta
Kenya has launched the first locally designed and produced electric bus in the African continent.
According to the manufacturer, Opibus, local engineering talent and local manufacturing partners were utilized in the entire process.
The development is a major step in the battle against major climate concerns. The manufacturer also indicated that the newly produced bus will sell at a significantly lower cost compared to the importation of similar electric cars from outside the country.
Opibus’ management also noted that the product will be less expensive to maintain. The low cost is set to draw more market and value for money.
This first electric bus is set to be launched commercially mid this year. Following this, the platform will be tested at scale in commercial deployment of 10 buses during the second half of 2022,” Dennis Wakaba, the project coordinator said.
“In doing so, we ensure that we gather valuable feedback to continue the development of the product for an optimized market fit. It feels great to be the first movers in this very exciting space.”
Opibus, the manufacturer, is a Swedish-Kenyan technology company which deals in the designing and deployment of electric buses.
The firm aims at revolutionizing Africa’s transport system and creating jobs for the many youth who will be trained and engaged.
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