A Chinese company, Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited (CATL) has appointed BasiGo as its authorized service partner in sub-Saharan Africa.
Through this partnership, BasiGo’s service teams in Kenya and Rwanda will receive specialized training and equipment to perform on-site maintenance and repairs on CATL batteries in electric vehicles.
CATL is the world’s leading manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. With a global market share of about 38%, it holds a dominant position in the industry
“This partnership is a huge step forward for BasiGo and a strong sign of confidence in the work we’ve done in Kenya and Rwanda. CATL is the global leader in EV battery technology, and batteries are the most critical component of any electric vehicle.
Moreover, it means we are now equipped to keep CATL batteries running smoothly in African EVs—not just for our own electric buses, but for EV operators across the entire continent.” Stated Jit Bhattacharya, CEO of BasiGo.
While this partnership covers all of sub-Saharan Africa BasiGo will initially focus its operations in Kenya and Rwanda giving the company a strong position in Kenya, which has ambitious plans to electrify its public transport system. Former Trade Minister, Rebecca Miano who attended the opening of the BasiGo factory last year stated that the government’s goal was to have all public service vehicles (PSV) go electric by 2027.
On his part, Saba Azizi, CATL’s Head of Service Network and After-Sales for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, said that BasiGo’s experience and local presence made them an ideal partner to support the company’s expansion in Africa.
“Their impressive history in electric mobility makes them a perfect partner to support the growing demand for dependable electric vehicle battery solutions in the region. This partnership is a crucial step in growing CATL’s worldwide service network and promoting sustainable transportation in Africa.” He stated.
CATL batteries are already in use in BasiGo’s electric buses and other EVs in the region and the new agreement indicates that BasiGo’s service centers will become collection points for used batteries, allowing them to be repurposed for a second life in Africa.
Founded in 2021, BasiGo began manufacturing its E9 Kubwa electric buses in Kenya in 2024. The company’s goal is to produce 1,000 buses for the East African market within three years.
The nine meter long E9 Kubwa with space for up to 54 passengers is powered by a 210 kWh CATL LFP battery which can be charged in under two hours. With a mid-day charging and can travel up to 400 kilometers daily with a total of 100 electric buses delivered to clients in Kenya and Rwanda.
The buses are assembled at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) plant in Thika which houses the company’s dedicated electric bus assembly line.
By Hellen Lunalo
