In Kenya, where diesel-powered public service vehicles (PSVs) dominate the roads, a revolutionary shift is happening in public transport. BasiGo, a local electric vehicle start-up, is at the forefront of transforming the public transport sector with its innovative electric buses. Founded in 2021, BasiGo aims to address the rising concerns about fuel costs, environmental pollution, and the need for sustainable solutions in the transport industry.
BasiGo’s journey began in 2022 when it launched its first electric bus, which was fully assembled in China. The company’s vision was clear: to provide affordable, clean, and efficient alternatives to the traditional diesel-powered buses that flood the streets of Kenya. However, the company quickly realized that in order to make a significant impact, local manufacturing would be key. This led to the launch of BasiGo’s first locally assembled electric bus in 2023, marking a milestone in the company’s growth and commitment to the Kenyan market.
By assembling its buses locally, BasiGo has been able to reduce costs significantly and tap into Kenya’s growing manufacturing capacity. The company’s assembly plant in Nairobi allows for the buses to be tailor-made for the local market, taking into consideration factors such as road conditions, local climate, and passenger demands. Since then, BasiGo has scaled up its production, now assembling an average of six electric buses per month. This represents a considerable achievement for a start-up less than three years old, and it positions BasiGo as a key player in the East African electric mobility ecosystem.
The benefits of electric buses are manifold, and they come at a time when the world is grappling with the effects of climate change. Kenya’s transport sector is a major contributor to the country’s carbon emissions, and BasiGo’s e-buses are providing a cleaner, greener alternative. Unlike diesel buses, electric vehicles (EVs) emit zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and contributing to a healthier environment. This is especially important in urban centers like Nairobi, where air quality has been a growing concern.
One of the most significant challenges for electric buses in Kenya, and Africa at large, has been the cost of acquiring such vehicles. Traditional diesel buses are often more affordable upfront, which makes it difficult for PSV operators to switch to electric alternatives. BasiGo has tackled this challenge head-on by introducing an innovative financing model that enables transport operators to lease the buses rather than purchasing them outright. This model significantly reduces the initial capital required, making it easier for operators to make the transition to electric buses.
BasiGo’s business model also includes providing operators with access to charging infrastructure, service support, and maintenance services, all of which are essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability of electric buses. The company has partnered with various stakeholders, including energy providers, to establish charging stations throughout the city, further enhancing the accessibility and reliability of electric public transport.
The company has ambitious plans for the future. By the end of 2026, BasiGo aims to deliver 1,000 electric buses to East Africa, a significant step toward its goal of transforming the region’s public transport system. With Kenya’s ambitious plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, BasiGo is poised to play a critical role in the country’s journey toward a sustainable future.
The local assembly of electric buses is also a game-changer for Kenya’s manufacturing sector. It has opened up new opportunities for job creation, skill development, and local innovation. The growth of the electric mobility industry is expected to create thousands of jobs in areas such as assembly, maintenance, battery technology, and renewable energy.
In conclusion, BasiGo is not just a company; it represents a bold vision for the future of public transport in Kenya. Through innovation, local manufacturing, and a focus on sustainability, BasiGo is leading the charge in the electric vehicle revolution, making electric buses a practical and viable solution for public transport in Kenya. With the company’s growth and its ambitious goals, it is clear that BasiGo is set to be a major player in the transformation of public transport in East Africa.
