New Vehicle Imports Decline as Locally Assembled EVs Gain Traction

Kenya’s new vehicle imports fell by 18% in 2023 as locally assembled electric and hybrid vehicles captured market share. Data from the Kenya Association of Manufacturers shows Roam and BasiGo sold over 1,200 electric buses and boda-bodas, while Simba Corp began SKD assembly of BYD electric cars in Nairobi. The 2022 EV import duty waiver (from 25% to 0%) and 15-year tax holiday for local assemblers spurred investment. Total EV registrations now exceed 8,000, up from 1,200 in 2022. However, high upfront costs and limited charging infrastructure outside Nairobi and Mombasa remain barriers. The Energy Ministry aims for 50,000 EVs on the road by 2030, supported by green bonds and donor funding.