13,700 km across Africa with an electric bus
As reported at the start of the ‘Made in Uganda Grand Trans-Africa Electric Expedition,’ the expedition used an electric bus developed in Africa: specifically, the Kayoola Electric Coach 13M model from the manufacturer Kiira Motors. While the Uganda-based company relies heavily on components from China for its technology, the vehicle itself is a battery-electric intercity bus designed to meet ‘growing demand for cleaner and smarter public transport solutions.’
In practice, routes of less than 500 kilometres are more common, even though, with preparation and support, significantly longer journeys, as demonstrated, are possible. However, for the 13,700-kilometre trip, mobile charging stations were occasionally used due to a lack of existing infrastructure to recharge the electric bus. Through this PR tour, the manufacturer aimed to prove that electric mobility can function across borders in Africa. Kiira Motors reportedly received over 400 expressions of interest and pre-orders from cities, institutions, and transport operators during the expedition.
During the tour, which primarily showcased the new model’s range, the vehicle consumed an average of 0.79 kWh per kilometre and covered an average of 390 kilometres per day—representing daily stages rather than its maximum real-world range. Over the 13,700 kilometres, there was allegedly only one safety incident, which underscores the reliability of the systems. “When you travel over 13,000 kilometres across borders, climates and terrain and return with just one incident, you know something worked exceptionally well,” said Elias Bwambale, Kiira Motors Corporation’s Head of Legal and the expedition’s project lead.
“This journey affirms that Africa’s solutions can be designed, built and deployed right here at home,” said Uganda’s Minister for Works and Transport, Edward Katumba Wamala, upon the expedition team’s arrival. “Electric mobility is no longer a future concept. It is a present opportunity, and Uganda has shown leadership in turning vision into action.”
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