Introduction: Are There New Electric Cars Being Sold in Kenya?
Yes — new electric cars are now being imported and sold in Kenya , marking a major milestone in the country’s shift toward sustainable transport.
While most electric vehicles (EVs) in Kenya are still used imports from Japan, UAE, and China, new electric car sales are on the rise , thanks to growing demand, tax exemptions, and increasing awareness of clean energy mobility.
📌 Quick Summary: Top New Electric Cars Now Available in Kenya (2025)
| Model | Type | Battery Range | Estimated Price (KES) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin | BEV | 400–430 km | 4M – 5M |
| BYD Atto 3 | BEV | 430 km | 4.5M – 5.5M |
| Chery eQ7 | BEV | 350–400 km | 3.8M – 5M |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | BEV | 300–480 km | 4.5M – 7M |
| Geely Geometry A / C | BEV | 450–500 km | 4M – 6M |
| Neta V | BEV | 500 km | 4.2M – 5M |
| Wuling Air EV | BEV | 150 km | 2.8M – 3.5M |
🏆 Best New Electric Car Models Arriving in Kenya
1. BYD Dolphin – Stylish & Modern EV
The BYD Dolphin is one of the most stylish and compact electric cars now arriving in Kenya through private imports.
🔋 Battery & Performance:
- Range: ~400–430 km
- Charging: Fast-charging capable
- Motor power: 70 kW (base model)
💰 Estimated Price in Kenya:
- Imported used: KES 4M – 4.5M
- New: KES 5M+
✅ Pros:
- Compact and stylish
- Decent battery life
- High-tech interior
❌ Cons:
- Limited local service centers
- Import-only availability
2. BYD Atto 3 – Popular Family EV
The BYD Atto 3 is gaining traction in Kenya for its spacious interior, long range, and solid build quality.
🔋 Battery & Performance:
- Range: ~430 km
- Charging: Fast DC charging
- Motor power: 150 kW
💰 Estimated Price in Kenya:
- Imported used: KES 4.5M – 5M
- New: KES 5.5M+
✅ Pros:
- Excellent range
- Comfortable ride
- Competitive price for specs
❌ Cons:
- No official dealership yet
- Spare parts may take time to arrive
3. Chery eQ7 – Budget-Friendly Chinese SUV
The Chery eQ7 offers modern design and decent performance at a relatively low price.
🔋 Battery & Performance:
- Range: ~350–400 km
- Charging: Fast-charging capable
- Motor power: ~90–120 kW
💰 Estimated Price in Kenya:
- Used imports: KES 3.8M – 4.5M
- New: KES 5M+
✅ Pros:
- Lower entry cost
- Familiar brand among Kenyan buyers
- Decent performance for daily use
❌ Cons:
- Fewer dealerships
- Limited after-sales support
4. Hyundai Kona Electric – Long-Range Champion
For those looking for more driving range and modern tech, the Hyundai Kona Electric is one of the best EVs available in Kenya.
🔋 Battery & Performance:
- Range: ~300–480 km
- Charging: Fast DC charging
- Motor power: 150 kW
💰 Estimated Price in Kenya:
- Used: KES 4.5M – 5.5M
- New: KES 6.5M – 7M+
✅ Pros:
- Excellent range for daily use
- Spacious and comfortable
- Advanced safety features
❌ Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited availability
5. Geely Geometry A / C – Tech-Heavy EV
Geely’s Geometry series brings high-end tech and luxury feel to the Kenyan market.
🔋 Battery & Performance:
- Range: ~450–500 km
- Charging: Fast DC charging
- Motor power: ~150 kW
💰 Estimated Price in Kenya:
- Used imports: KES 4M – 5M
- New: KES 6M+
✅ Pros:
- Long range
- Premium interior
- Advanced driver-assist features
❌ Cons:
- Not widely known in Kenya
- Service network limited
6. Neta V – The New Player
The Neta V is a relatively new entrant in the Kenyan EV scene but already gaining attention for its futuristic look and impressive range.
🔋 Battery & Performance:
- Range: ~500 km
- Charging: Fast DC capable
- Motor power: ~120–160 kW
💰 Estimated Price in Kenya:
- Used imports: KES 4.2M – 5M
- New: KES 5.5M+
✅ Pros:
- Very good range
- Spacious and comfortable
- Modern infotainment system
❌ Cons:
- Very few units in Kenya
- Minimal local support
7. Wuling Air EV – Affordable Entry-Level Option
The Wuling Air EV is a small city car that’s popular in China for short commutes and urban driving.
🔋 Battery & Performance:
- Range: ~150 km
- Charging: Standard home charging
- Motor power: 30–40 kW
💰 Estimated Price in Kenya:
- Used imports: KES 2.8M – 3.2M
- New: KES 3.5M+
✅ Pros:
- Very affordable
- Easy to park and maneuver
- Good for city driving
❌ Cons:
- Short range
- Small size not ideal for families
🛒 Where to Buy New Electric Cars in Kenya
Although there are no official dealerships for most global EV brands in Kenya, here are your options for buying new or nearly new electric cars:
📍 1. Green Energy Vehicle Solutions (GEVS)
Specializes in importing and selling electric cars, buses, and commercial vehicles.
📍 Nairobi
📞 Contact via phone or website
🌐 Offers test drives and demo units
📍 2. Private Importers & Dealerships
Many new or low-mileage EVs come through private importers from UAE, Japan, and China.
🔎 Platforms to search:
- Jiji.co.ke
- OLX Kenya
- Facebook Marketplace
- Mobile Classifieds
📍 3. Direct Imports via Dubai or China
Some buyers opt to order directly from manufacturers and arrange shipping through logistics companies based in Dubai or South Africa.
This allows for access to brand-new models with full manufacturer warranty.
💸 Are New Electric Cars Worth It in Kenya?
Buying a new electric car in Kenya comes with both pros and cons :
| Benefit | Challenge |
|---|---|
| Longer battery life and warranty | Higher upfront cost |
| Better performance and tech | Limited local servicing |
| More reliable sourcing | Complex customs process |
| Prestige and resale value | Fewer models available locally |
📌 Tip: If you’re planning to keep your car for several years and drive frequently, a new EV may be worth the investment.
⚡ Charging Your New Electric Car in Kenya
Most new electric cars use standard CCS or GB/T charging ports. In Kenya:
🔌 Home Charging
Most owners install a Level 1 or Level 2 wall charger at home.
⚡ Public Charging Stations
There are approximately 50 public EV charging points across Kenya, mostly located in:
- Nairobi : Westlands, Kilimani, Upper Hill
- Mombasa : Nyali, Mombasa Island
- Kisumu : Central areas
Companies like ChargeUp Kenya and Roam are expanding the network to support more EV users.
🚨 Challenges Facing New Electric Car Adoption in Kenya
Despite growing interest, some challenges remain:
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| High Initial Cost | EVs are often more expensive than traditional cars |
| Limited After-Sales Service | Few trained technicians and limited spare parts |
| Power Supply Issues | Makes home charging unreliable |
| Low Awareness | Many people don’t know enough about EV technology |
🚀 Future Outlook: More New Electric Cars Coming Soon
With rising fuel prices, government incentives, and growing investor interest, Kenya is set to see an increase in new electric car availability over the next few years.
We may soon see:
- Local assembly plants for Chinese EVs
- Official dealerships for BYD, Chery, and Geely
- More public EV charging stations
- Green financing options from banks and fintech firms
✅ Conclusion: Yes, New Electric Cars Are Now Available in Kenya
If you’re looking to own a brand-new electric car , options like the BYD Dolphin , Chery eQ7 , and Hyundai Kona Electric are now being imported and sold in Kenya.
While the market is still developing, the trend is clear — electric cars are no longer just for early adopters; they’re becoming a practical option for everyday drivers and businesses alike.