Kiira Motors Corporation, a Ugandan state-owned enterprise, is making waves in the electric vehicle industry with its Kayoola electric buses. These buses are not only eco-friendly but also cost-effective, with operating costs of UGX 320 per kilometer, significantly lower than diesel buses at UGX 1,670 per kilometer.
- Key Features of Kayoola Electric Buses:
- Range: Up to 300 km on a single charge
- Battery: 560 kWh, with a 245 kW motor
- Charging Time: 1.5 hours using a 200 kW Super Charger
- Capacity: 90 passengers (42 seated, 48 standing)
- Materials: Bamboo flooring and locally sourced materials
The Kayoola buses have already made a mark in Uganda and beyond, with a successful 13,000 km expedition from Uganda to South Africa, showcasing their reliability and endurance. Uganda’s Civil Aviation Authority has also acquired five Kayoola E-Coaches, part of the country’s e-mobility program.
Impact and Future Plans:
- Environmental Benefits: Zero greenhouse gas emissions, reducing CO₂ output by 181 metric tonnes per bus
- Economic Benefits: Creating jobs, boosting local industries, and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels
- Expansion Plans: Kiira Motors aims to manufacture 30,000 buses for regional markets by 2030, with a $250 million export deal to South Africa
