The current world is being dominated by technology in several areas among which include cooking (for example electric stoves), heating and cooling (for instance electric heat pumps that are replacing traditional gas or oil-based heating systems), Personal Care & Grooming (such as electric toothbrushes and electric razors) and many more. In the same way, the transport sector is increasingly becoming electric. However, contrary to what many would think, electric vehicles are not an entirely new concept.
The first electric car was invented as early as the 19th century (1800s) with a few inventors such as Englishman Thomas Parker, Scotsman Robert Anderson, German Andreas Flocken, and American William Morris among others being credited for its creation. However, the downfall of EVs started in the 20th century mainly due to their high cost, limited range, and low top speed compared to internal combustion engine vehicles (vehicles that run on petrol or diesel) as well as the absence of charging infrastructure.
However, due to the concerns about climate change, pollution, and the environmental damage that has resulted from fossil fuels, electric vehicles have slowly made a comeback over the years. Electric vehicles are not a craze but rather a technology that is quickly taking root with EV prices reducing and people’s perception and willingness to embrace the technology increasing with every year that goes by. With the growing uptake of electric vehicles, several myths and misconceptions have surfaced, but facts backed by proof have seen these EV Myths Busted.
Electric vehicles provide numerous advantages over traditional petrol and diesel-powered cars. Among these include;
- Enhanced Quality of Air
An increase in the number of electric vehicles results in better air quality. This will benefit people’s health, particularly those with respiratory issues. Clean air translates into a higher standard of living for everyone.
- Reduction in noise
The noise produced for instance by the motors and exhausts of traditional motorbikes contributes to noise pollution. On the other hand, the silent operation of electric motorbikes reduces noise pollution and creates a more tranquil atmosphere free of unwanted sounds.
- Sustainable Transportation Alternative
Electric vehicles provide us with an environmentally friendly, sustainable mode of transportation that satisfies the growing demand for eco-consciousness and protecting the environment around the world. When you choose EVs, you contribute to promoting sustainable transportation and help build a greener future for future generations.
Overall, these benefits make electric vehicles an increasingly attractive option for consumers seeking a sustainable and cost-effective mode of transportation.
The Birth of EVs in Uganda
EVs in Uganda date back to 2007; evolving from an extra-curricular activity under the auspices of then Makerere University Faculty of Technology, to a university-curricular activity and later a mainstream national initiative for automotive manufacturing. In the same year, a global consortium of over 31 universities and colleges across the world took part in a Vehicle Design Summit to design and bring to market a hybrid electric vehicle. Makerere University was the only participant from Africa and its team from the Faculty of Technology now the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology was responsible for the design and integration of the Low Power Electronics and Data Networking Systems. The team resolved to embark on a project aimed at designing and building a vehicle in Uganda.
The Center for Research in Transport Technologies (CRTT) was conceived under Makerere University in December 2008 and approved as part of the University Structures effective January 1, 2011. The strategic goal of CRTT was to advance research and innovation in transportation technologies on land, air, and sea with specific emphasis on green mobility solutions for Africa.
The Kiira EV Project was the first project implemented under CRTT. The Kiira EV, Africa’s first electric vehicle, was completed by the team and launched by President Yoweri Museveni, on November 24, 2011.
This was the first time anyone in Uganda had been able to part-assemble and part-manufacture a purely electric car, conspicuously green in color to symbolize its environmental credentials.
The successful execution of the Kiira EV led to the establishment of Kiira Motors as a government initiative for automotive industry development aimed at establishing a vehicle plant in Uganda. Kiira Motors started the Kiira Vehicle Technology Innovation Program through which the Kiira EV SMACK, the first Electric Hybrid Vehicle designed and built in Africa, was developed and unveiled at a very high-profile event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, Kenya in November 2014.
The team then designed and built the Kayoola Solar Bus, the first Electric Solar Bus designed and built in Africa. The bus was launched by President Museveni on February 16th, 2016 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
In 2020, Kiira Motors unveiled two electric-powered buses; the Kayoola EVS. The Daily Monitor reported that the buses were, as of then, available for sale to the public.
The bus is a 90-total passenger carrier with 49 seating and 41 standing and comes with installed CCTV cameras in and outside the bus for security purposes. In addition, comes with on-board Wi-Fi connectivity, and a battery is up to 3,000 charge cycles (900,000kms) compared to 200,000km for diesel engines.
As of June 2024, Kiira Motors in collaboration with Luweero Industries can manufacture a variety of Kayoola EVS buses with a seating capacity of up to 120.
EV Growth in Uganda
According to the Electric Motorcycle Industry in Uganda, 2024 Report, experts anticipate that Sub-Saharan Africa (excluding South Africa) will imitate Asia’s tremendous growth in electric two-wheelers which will see these two-wheelers make up 45% to 57% of the total vehicles on the road by 2040. The government of Uganda, which directly invested over US$100 million (approx. UGX368.52 billion) in e-mobility research, development, and manufacture between FY2018/19 and FY2023/24, has been one of the largest e-mobility financiers.
See also: Government pledges UGX32.5 billion for completion of Kiira motors’ industrial plant
The number of EVs on Ugandan roads is still relatively low compared to conventional vehicles. However, there is a growing interest and awareness in electric mobility. The largest adoption of EVs in Uganda is in public transport with electric motorcycles leading in the category and marking the country’s notable entry point to electric mobility. Electric buses are also slowly growing in the country with Kiira Motors pioneering and dominating in their production. Resultantly, Uganda’s goal is to prioritize public transport and motorcycles by 2030 and passenger vehicle electrification by 2040.
Notably, while the focus has been on immediate solutions like electric buses and motorbikes, the prospect of electric trains showcases Uganda’s long-term commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. With the right planning, collaboration, and investment, electric trains could become a cornerstone of Uganda’s transport system, paving the way for a cleaner and more connected future.
Also read:
There is a future for electric vehicles in Uganda
The electric vehicle market in Uganda presents immense opportunities and is projected to experience significant growth in the coming years, making it an ideal time for investors to seize the chance to invest in this promising sector.
To advance e-mobility in Uganda, there must be collaboration in the form of joint efforts from the public and private sectors, civil society, East Africa, and Africa at large. Public-private partnerships have the potential to expedite infrastructure development and technology adoption by pooling resources and leveraging expertise. To address particular issues faced in the Ugandan context and to build local EV manufacturing capabilities, it is also imperative to support innovation and research.
See also: Uganda’s E-Mobility Progress: When Will Electric Trains Be Tested?
