Models, prices, charging stations, and what’s driving the EV revolution
1. Why Electric Cars Are Gaining Ground in Kenya
Kenya’s EV market has grown rapidly in the past two years, thanks to:
- Tax incentives on EV imports
- Rising fuel prices (petrol at KSh 177+/litre in June 2025)
- Urban air pollution concerns
- Government support through the Draft National E-Mobility Policy and EV Charging Guidelines
- Private sector investment in charging stations and EV assembly
According to KRA, EV sales now account for 8.3% of new vehicle registrations, up from just 2% in 2022.
2. Cheapest Electric Cars in Kenya (2025 CRSP Update)
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) released a new Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) list in July 2025, which affects import taxes. Here are some of the most affordable EVs on the market:
| Model | Type | CRSP (KSh) |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota C+Walk T | Hatchback | 544,402 – 776,180 |
| Dongfeng EX1 Nano Box | SUV | 1,583,128 |
| Dongfeng Nammi 01 | Hatchback | 2,005,296 |
| Nissan Clipper DX GL | Van | 2,657,763 |
| Neta N01 | SUV | 2,673,728 |
| Mitsubishi Minicab MiEV | Van | 3,060,147 |
| Peugeot E-208 GT Line | SUV | 3,256,811 |
| Nissan Sakura | Minivan | 3,687,392 |
Note: These are CRSP values used for tax calculation—not showroom prices. Final costs may be 30–50% higher after duties and dealer margins.
3. Where to Charge Your EV in Kenya
Charging infrastructure is expanding fast:
- Kenya Power has budgeted KSh 258 million to roll out charging hubs in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu
- Roam and Quickmart are installing EV chargers at supermarket branches
- BasiGo and Ampersand are building charging depots for electric buses and boda bodas
- Private home chargers are now available from installers like EVChaja and EVMobility
4. Government Policies & Incentives
Kenya’s EV ecosystem is backed by:
- Zero import duty on fully electric vehicles
- Reduced excise duty (10% vs. 25% for petrol cars)
- Green number plates for EVs
- Priority parking and charging lane access (in draft policy)
- Local assembly incentives for companies like Roam, BasiGo, and Autopax
However, the Finance Bill 2025 proposes removing VAT exemptions on lithium batteries—a move that could raise EV costs if passed.
5. Top EV Models to Watch in Kenya (2025)
| Model | Range (km) | Price Range (KSh) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Leaf | 240 | 2.5M–3.2M | Popular used import from Japan |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 385 | 6.2M+ | Premium EV with fast charging |
| Tesla Model 3 | 400+ | 6.5M+ | Rare but growing in Nairobi |
| Peugeot E-2008 | 340 | 3.5M+ | Stylish SUV, locally available |
| Roam Move | 70–90 | 180K–250K | Locally assembled e-bike |
6. Is It Practical to Own an EV in Kenya?
Yes—if you live in a city. Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu now have:
- Charging stations
- EV-friendly roads
- Short commutes (ideal for 200–300 km range cars)
Challenges remain for rural drivers, long-distance travel, and secondhand EV battery replacement. But for urban dwellers, the math is shifting in favor of electric.
Final Word
Electric cars in Kenya are no longer a futuristic dream—they’re a growing reality. With falling prices, expanding infrastructure, and strong policy support, 2025 may be the year EVs go mainstream. Whether you’re buying your first Nissan Leaf or exploring a locally assembled e-bike, the road ahead is electric.
