Rwanda is taking a momentous step towards a greener and more sustainable future in its public transportation system. BasiGo, the Kenyan electric bus startup, has partnered with AC Mobility (Tap&Go) to introduce the first fleet of electric buses in the country. The arrival of these emission-free buses is eagerly anticipated in October 2023.
Expanding the Electric Fleet: BasiGo’s Entry into Rwanda
Having already established a presence in Kenya, BasiGo is now venturing into Rwanda, becoming the second African country to benefit from the company’s electric buses. In January, BasiGo revealed its ambitious plan to assemble over 1000 electric buses in Kenya over the next three years.
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In Rwanda, BasiGo and AC Mobility plan to launch the electric buses in collaboration with local bus operators, including Kigali Bus Service, Royal Express, and Volcano Express. This initiative seeks to drive the adoption of electric buses, thereby reducing air pollution and greenhouse emissions.
“We are excited to partner with BasiGo to drive Rwanda’s public bus electrification. The country has recorded rapid transformation, creating a need for a more robust and cost-effective public transport system. The electric buses will help ease the cost burden of public bus transporters and advance Rwanda’s transition to clean mobility. We look forward to leveraging BasiGo’s experience and network to build a strong electric bus business in Rwanda.” Jones Kizihira, Chief Executive Officer, AC Mobility Rwanda said
Incentives for Electrification
Rwanda’s commitment to promoting electric mobility is evident in its recent decision to eliminate import taxes on electric vehicles. The country’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Uzziel Ndagijimana, stated that this move aims to expedite the adoption of electric vehicles and mitigate emissions associated with petroleum-based transportation.
In line with its environmental goals, Rwanda envisions converting 20% of its public transportation to electric vehicles by 2030. This ambitious plan is set to drive significant positive change in the country’s transportation landscape, and players like BasiGo are instrumental in accelerating this transformation.
Pay-As-You-Drive Model: Making Electric Buses Accessible
BasiGo’s commitment to making electric buses accessible to private bus operators is exemplified through its innovative financing model, the Pay-As-You-Drive scheme. This model enables private operators to acquire electric buses at affordable rates, contributing to the widespread adoption of eco-friendly transportation.
A Strong Partnership for a Greener Rwanda
Collaborating with AC Mobility, a prominent technology leader in Rwanda’s transport sector, BasiGo is fully committed to advancing Rwanda’s transition to electrified public transport. The partnership aims to deliver 200 electric buses to bus operators in Rwanda by the end of 2024, driving the nation’s clean mobility agenda forward.
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In addition to driving clean mobility, BasiGo is dedicated to environmental sustainability. The company utilizes recycled materials, including pre-consumer recycled glass and aluminum, and post-consumer recycled plastics, in the production of its electric buses. Moreover, Rwanda’s tree-planting initiatives receive support from BasiGo, reinforcing its commitment to creating a positive impact on the planet.
BasiGo: Leading the Charge in Kenya
Having made significant strides in electrifying Kenya’s public transport system, BasiGo has sold 19 electric buses to operators in Nairobi and has garnered reservations for over 100 more. The electric buses have covered over 460,000 kilometers and served over 580,000 passengers. BasiGo’s innovative approach, including deploying Kenya’s first DC-fast charging stations for electric buses, positions it as a trailblazer in sustainable transportation.
Conclusion: A Promising Future for Rwanda’s Public Transport
As Rwanda prepares to welcome its first fleet of electric buses, the nation is poised to revolutionize its public transportation system. BasiGo’s commitment to delivering eco-friendly solutions and AC Mobility’s expertise in automated fare collection systems create a formidable alliance that will drive Rwanda’s public bus electrification and propel the country towards a greener future.
