{"id":71479,"date":"2024-04-28T17:16:30","date_gmt":"2024-04-28T17:16:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.africa-press.net\/rwanda\/all-news\/izi-electric-rwanda-announces-delivery-of-five-electric-buses"},"modified":"2024-04-28T17:44:34","modified_gmt":"2024-04-28T17:44:34","slug":"izi-electric-rwanda-announces-delivery-of-five-electric-buses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.africa-press.net\/rwanda\/photo\/izi-electric-rwanda-announces-delivery-of-five-electric-buses","title":{"rendered":"IZI Electric Rwanda announces delivery of five electric buses"},"content":{"rendered":"

Africa-Press – Rwanda. <\/strong><\/span>IZI Rwanda, a pioneer in e-mobility, announces the delivery of five electric buses to Kigali. These buses, which will be trialled in the fleets of Kigali Bus Services (KBS) and other local operators, initiate a pilot project aimed at the electrification of public transport in Kigali for a fraction of previous cost estimates.<\/p>\n

Kigali\u2019s population has grown 50% since 2013, while the number of operational buses has decreased significantly. This decline is largely attributed to rising diesel costs and capped ticket prices, which in many cases drive a requirement for 80% occupancy just to cover fuel costs.<\/p>\n

As Public Transport Operators (PTOs) fleets have shrunk, some commuters often endure waits of up to two hours, impacting their quality of life and productivity. Additionally, vehicle emissions account for 13% of Rwanda’s greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating an urgent shift to clean transport.<\/p>\n

IZI has launched its e-mobility-as-a-service model to overcome these challenges and provide a frictionless way to migrate bus fleets of all sizes to electric.<\/p>\n

The Government of Rwanda has implemented numerous progressive policy initiatives to drive electrification of public transport, but PTOs have been wary of purchasing electric vehicles because of the high initial capex, unknown resale value and absence of local maintenance facilities. In response, IZI has launched its e-mobility-as-a-service model to overcome these challenges and provide a frictionless way to migrate bus fleets of all sizes to electric.<\/p>\n

For a low per kilometre based fee, bus operators can enjoy IZI\u2019s innovative \u2018Pay-As-You-Go\u2019 service and are provided access to: a fully electric vehicle, the required charging infrastructure and full vehicle servicing and training. In short, without any upfront cost transport providers can realise an average 40% saving on operational costs, transforming their profitability, and allowing them to meet the needs of Kigali\u2019s rapidly growing population.<\/p>\n

A key enabler of IZI’s low-cost solution is a proprietary platform that significantly extends the life of EV batteries, thus lowering overall vehicle costs by extending their useful lifespan. The IZI Connect fleet management system, which currently manages more than 9,000 vehicles in China, monitors the battery health and supports predictive maintenance which is facilitated by a Battery Laboratory for on-site battery cell repair and replacement.<\/p>\n

The IZI Battery Laboratory will be the first facility of its kind in Africa, and beyond supporting the IZI fleet, this state-of-the-art lab will extend service to third-party EV users, offering localized battery analysis, repair, and maintenance services. Strategically located in Kigali, the lab is poised to be a significant driver of specialized job creation and accelerate the adoption and growth of EVs across Rwanda and the broader East African region.<\/p>\n

Charles Ngarambe, CEO of Kigali Bus Services (one of the largest public transport operators in Rwanda) commented \u201cWe believe the IZI model service can be transformative to the profitability of our business and drive our expansion\u201d.<\/p>\n

IZI has received orders for over 200 buses to be deployed in Rwanda over the course of 2024. Alex Wilson, IZI Chief Executive Officer commented \u2018We are delighted to be able to contribute to the Rwandan Government’s progressive target of electrifying 20% of their public transport network by 2030.<\/p>\n

The new electric buses that will be used in Kigali in recent days. Courtesy<\/p>\n

Kigali faces the same challenges as many other rapidly growing African cities and the Rwandan Government\u2019s progressive policy initiatives and investment incentives, electrification ambitions and support make Rwanda it an ideal country to pilot IZI\u2019s pioneering e-mobility model.\u2019<\/p>\n

To support its launch, IZI has installed a 120 Kw fast charging station located at the Century Park complex in Nyarutarama. In collaboration with Century Park, IZI will make this available to the public. This will be the first fast-charging station available to the public in Rwanda, drastically improving the charging experience for EV owners.<\/p>\n

About IZI<\/p>\n

IZI’s founders have unique experience in managing electric vehicle fleets at scale and service leading logistics companies in China, including JD.com, Alibaba, and SF which is the world\u2019s largest logistics company. This proven experience in China’s advanced EV market is a testament to IZI\u2019s capability and commitment to introducing sustainable and inclusive transport solutions across the African continent.<\/p>\n\r\n