The Autopax Air Yetu Electric Vehicle (EV) made waves during the concluded Africa Climate Summit 2023 that was held at KICC (The Kenyatta International Convention Center) in Nairobi, Kenya, from the 4th to the 6th of September 2023 after the president of Kenya William Ruto ditched his usual heavy detailed presidential convoy and drove himself in the tiny three-door electric hatchback. The summit was aimed at addressing the increasing exposure to climate change and its associated costs, both globally and particularly in Africa. The Summit served as a platform to inform, frame, and influence commitments, pledges, and outcomes, ultimately leading to the development of the Nairobi Declaration.
What is Autopax Air Yetu EV?
The Air Yetu is the product of a partnership between Kenya’s pioneering Electric Vehicle EV company Autopax and the Chinese SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) – leading global automotive manufacturer – which was signed on Tuesday 27th June, 2023. Together these two powerhouses will introduce a range of Electric Vehicles tailored to meet the unique needs of the Kenyan Market. This collaboration marks a significant step towards promoting sustainable transportation and fostering a greener future for Kenya which is in line with Autopax’s tagline – Mobility for Life.
The journey begun on Wednesday 21st June, 2023 when Autopax founder Dr. Isaac Kalua Green and SGMW directors and the team leader of Overseas Business and Engineering Center Madam Lisa Li signed an Engineering Services and partnership Agreement at their offices in Liuzhou, Guangxi, P.R. China. The CEO of Autopax Ms Joy Kalua confirmed that the company has already received the first batch of Autopax AirEv YETU vehicles here in Kenya for pre-launch trials ahead of the official launch. They come in two models:- Autopax AirEv YETU (which covers 200 kilometers on full charge) and Autopax AirEv YETU Pro (which covers 300 kilometers on full charge).
AirEv YETU Electric Vehicles
The Autopax CEO Joy Kalua says that the AirEv YETU Electric Vehicles are as a result of a well thought world class process and have been tested for the convenience of all local users. The global modern and beautiful looking machines have been designed to meet the mobility needs and deliver affordability, reliability, and sustainability in support of the life aspirations of each individual owner. The electric cars will be manufactured in partnership with SGMW and will soon be assembled in Kenya. Subsequently AirEv YETU will be mass-produced locally using local components, thus supporting local manufacturing, and creating thousands of local decent jobs.
Here are five key advantages of AirEv Yetu Electric Vehicles:
1. Cost – effectiveness: – The cost-effectiveness of Electric Vehicles makes them an appealing option for Kenyan consumers from the very beginning. Here’s how they can save money:-
- Reduced Fuel Costs: Electric Vehicles eliminate the need for expensive petrol or diesel fuel, replacing it with electricity that can be charged at a fraction of the cost. With Kenya’s abundant renewable energy resources, the cost of electricity for charging EVs can be even more competitive, resulting in significant savings for consumers.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: Electric Vehicles have fewer moving parts compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles, reducing the frequency and cost of maintenance and repairs. EV owners can save on expenses such as oil changes, spark plug replacements, and transmission repairs, leading to long-term cost savings.
- Government Incentives: The Kenyan government has shown a commitment to promoting Electric Vehicles through various incentives. These include tax breaks, subsidies, and preferential policies that make EV ownership more affordable. Kenyan consumers can take advantage of these incentives, further reducing the initial purchase cost of Electric Vehicles.
- Resale Value: Electric Vehicles tend to retain their value well, thanks to the growing demand for sustainable transportation options. Kenyan consumers can benefit from this trend by potentially receiving higher resale values for their Electric Vehicles in the future, further reducing the overall cost of ownership. Particularly, AirEv YETU has a battery pay back plan where customers have high value attached to their already used battery life.
2. Environmental Friendliness: Electric Vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing harmful air pollutants that contribute to climate change and air pollution. Kenyan consumers can actively contribute to improving air quality and mitigating climate change by choosing an Electric Vehicle.
3. Energy Efficiency: Electric Vehicles are highly energy-efficient as they convert a higher percentage of stored energy into powering the wheels. This efficiency translates to longer driving ranges, allowing Kenyan consumers to travel greater distances on a single charge and reducing their dependence on fossil fuels.
4. Quieter and Smoother Ride: Electric Vehicles operate silently and provide a smoother ride due to the absence of an internal combustion engine. This feature enhances the driving experience and reduces noise pollution, contributing to a more peaceful and enjoyable environment for passengers and pedestrians alike.
5. Renewable Energy Integration: EVs can be charged using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power, providing an opportunity for Kenya to leverage its vast renewable energy potential. By transitioning to Electric Vehicles, Kenyan consumers can align their transportation choices with the country’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development.