KENYA – BasiGo, an emerging e-mobility startup, proudly announces a significant feat: its fleet of buses has traversed an impressive 1 million kilometers since its inception in March 2022.
The CEO, Jit Bhattacharya, shared this milestone on LinkedIn, revealing that these e-buses have transported over 1.2 million passengers, slashed CO2 emissions by 500 tonnes, and averted the combustion of 190,000 liters of diesel – all achieved with just 19 buses on the roads.
BasiGo ventured into the electric bus domain with a vision to revolutionize public transportation, aspiring to offer efficient, eco-friendly, and economically viable solutions.
The company has diligently focused on pioneering technology and innovative designs to cater to the dynamic needs of the industry.
This achievement of BasiGo’s electric buses hitting the 1 million-kilometer mark stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to sustainable transportation.
These buses have underscored their efficacy, reliability, and environmental benefits, emerging as a credible alternative to traditional diesel-powered buses.
In an era where sustainability takes center stage, BasiGo’s milestone stands as an inspiration, beckoning other manufacturers to embrace electric buses on a broader scale.
With continual advancements in technology and infrastructure, the future appears promising for electric buses, with Basigo spearheading this transformative journey.
Expanding its horizons beyond Kenya
The company recently secured a substantial US$1.5 million grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for a pilot program in Kigali, Rwanda.
This initiative aims to showcase the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of electric buses in collaboration with some of Kigali’s prominent bus operators.
The startup has also disclosed the arrival of its initial two electric buses designated for Rwanda, currently en route to Kigali.
Jit stated, “Rwanda faces mounting pressures from escalating fuel costs and an urgent need for more public transport buses in Kigali. We believe our Pay-As-You-Drive solution will empower Kigali’s bus operators to swiftly increase the number of electric buses in their fleets.”
BasiGo’s first electric buses have commenced road testing in Kigali, with plans to soon operate on select bus routes.
These pilot electric buses, operated by Kigali Bus Service, Royal Express, and Volcano, will benefit from Basigo’s comprehensive Pay-As-You-Drive model, encompassing charging and maintenance services.
The company intends to leverage this pilot phase to refine the electric bus design and financing model, aiming to cater specifically to Rwanda’s bus operators and potential investors.
This strategic endeavor aligns with BasiGo’s commitment to pioneering sustainable and scalable e-mobility solutions.
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