Is It Possible to Buy an Electric Car in Kenya?
Yes — electric cars for sale in Kenya are becoming more accessible , especially in major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. While the market is still emerging, both private dealers and local companies are increasingly offering fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Whether you’re looking to import one or buy locally, this guide will help you understand:
- What electric cars are available in Kenya
- Where to buy them
- How much they cost
- And what to consider before making a purchase
Popular Electric Car Models For Sale in Kenya
While the selection is still limited compared to Western markets, here are some of the most commonly found electric car models in Kenya:
| Model | Type | Estimated Price (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Nissan Leaf | Fully Electric | 2,000,000 – 3,500,000 |
| Tesla Model 3 / Model Y | Fully Electric | 6,000,000+ |
| BMW i3 | Fully Electric | 4,000,000+ |
| Toyota Prius Prime | Plug-in Hybrid | 3,000,000 – 4,000,000 |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | Fully Electric | 4,500,000+ |
| Volkswagen ID.4 | Fully Electric | 5,000,000+ |
🚘 Note: Most electric cars in Kenya are sold as imported second-hand from Japan, UAE, or Europe, though new models are starting to appear through select dealers.
Where to Buy Electric Cars in Kenya
Here are some of the best places to buy electric cars in Kenya:
1. Green Energy Vehicle Solutions (GEVS)
Specializes in importing and selling electric vehicles, including cars and buses.
📍 Location: Nairobi
📞 Contact: +254 700 000 000
🌐 Website: www.gevskenya.com
2. Simba Corporation
Offers electric commercial vehicles and has dabbled in passenger EVs.
📍 Location: Nairobi
📞 Contact: +254 20 000 0000
3. Auto Importers and Private Sellers
Many used electric cars are on sale by private importers who source vehicles from the UAE, Japan, and Europe.
🔎 Platforms:
- Jiji.co.ke
- OLX Kenya
- Facebook Marketplace
- Mobile Classifieds
4. Tesla via Online Orders
Tesla does not have an official dealership in Kenya, but you can order a car online and arrange shipping through logistics companies based in Dubai or South Africa.
Pricing Guide: How Much Do Electric Cars Cost in Kenya?
The sale price of an electric car in Kenya depends on several factors:
- Whether it’s new or used
- The model and battery size
- Import duties and shipping costs
💡 Average Price Ranges:
| Condition | Price Range (KES) |
|---|---|
| Used Electric Cars | 1,800,000 – 4,000,000 |
| New Electric Cars | 4,500,000 – 10,000,000+ |
📌 Example: A used Nissan Leaf from the UAE may cost around KES 2.5 million , while a brand-new Tesla Model Y could be over KES 8 million after taxes and shipping.
Are There Affordable Electric Cars in Kenya?
Yes, but affordability is relative. Some more budget-friendly options include:
- Nissan Leaf (used) – Sale Price – Around KES 2 million
- Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (used) – Sale Price – Around KES 3 million
- Toyota Prius Prime (used) – Sale Price – Around KES 3.5 million
Local startups and foreign investors are also exploring opportunities to assemble electric cars locally, which could significantly lower prices in the future.
Tips for Buying an Electric Car in Kenya
Before purchasing an electric car in Kenya, consider the following:
1. Check Battery Health
EV batteries degrade over time. Ask for a battery health report or inspection before buying.
2. Understand Import Regulations
Ensure you know the customs duties and documentation required for importing an EV.
3. Install a Home Charger
Most buyers end up installing a Level 1 or Level 2 charger at home due to limited public charging stations.
4. Research After-Sales Support
Find out if spare parts and servicing are available locally or need to be sourced internationally.
5. Compare Sale Prices Across Platforms
Use multiple platforms to compare listings and negotiate better deals.
Charging Your Electric Car in Kenya
Charging infrastructure is still developing, but here are your main options:
🔌 Home Charging
Most owners install a wall-mounted or portable charger at home.
⚡ Public Charging Stations
Currently, there are about 50 public EV charging points in Kenya, mostly in Nairobi and Mombasa.
Companies Operating Public Chargers:
- ChargeUp Kenya
- Roam
- Kenya Power (pilot programs)
🏢 Workplace Charging
Some office buildings and hotels are beginning to install chargers for employees and guests.
The Future of Electric Cars in Kenya
With rising fuel prices, increasing environmental awareness, and government support, the demand for electric cars in Kenya is expected to grow rapidly in the next few years.
Startups like Opibus and Roam are already introducing electric motorcycles and buses, and plans for more affordable electric cars are underway.
In the near future, we may see:
- Local assembly plants for electric cars
- More public charging stations across the country
- Government subsidies for EV purchases
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Buy Electric Cars in Kenya!
To answer the question clearly: Yes, electric cars for sale in Kenya are available , though they’re still considered niche. Whether you’re looking to buy a used model or invest in a luxury EV, options exist—especially in Nairobi and other urban centers.
As the market grows and infrastructure improves, owning an electric car in Kenya will become more practical and accessible for everyday drivers.