EV Explorers has made history as the first team to enter a zero-emission electric vehicle (EV) in the Rhino Charge, a renowned annual off-road 4×4 competition in Kenya.
This milestone marks an advancement in sustainable mobility, demonstrating the capability of EVs in extreme off-road conditions while supporting the conservation efforts of the Rhino Ark Charitable Trust.
A Historic First for Rhino Charge
The inclusion of an EV in the Rhino Charge’s 35-year history underscores the growing interest in climate-smart technologies.
The event raises funds for conservation and has amassed over KES 2.4 billion ($18.56 million) since its inception.
These funds have supported Rhino Ark’s construction of 780 kilometres of electric fencing, protecting over 80,000 families from human-wildlife conflict across the Aberdares, Mount Kenya, and Mau Forest ecosystems, which provide ecological services worth KES 412 billion annually.
Kenya’s Push for Electric Mobility Kenya’s electric mobility sector is gaining traction, driven by supportive policies and increasing environmental awareness, according to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Key initiatives include a special e-mobility electricity tariff, a reduction in excise duty on EVs from 20% to 10%, and a VAT exemption for fully electric vehicles.
The Kenya National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy (2020) targets a 5% annual increase in EV imports, while Kenya’s commitment to the COP26 declaration reinforces its goal of transitioning to zero-emission vehicles.
At the launch, EV Explorers team leader Richard Kiplagat emphasised the link between climate action and conservation: “We’re proud to be the first to compete in the Rhino Charge with a zero-emission vehicle, showcasing what’s possible while raising awareness and funds for conservation.”
Engineer Nick Foley added, “Proving EVs can withstand rugged conditions is just the beginning. This initiative can inspire innovation in vehicle design, energy systems, and sustainable infrastructure, positioning Kenya as a leader in this space.”
Gloria Waswa, Deputy Executive Director of Rhino Ark, stated, “The Rhino Charge has always championed innovation and respect for our landscapes.
The introduction of an EV aligns with this ethos, blending technology with conservation leadership to protect Kenya’s ecosystems.”
The initiative is backed by a coalition of organizations, including Africa Practice, Base Titanium, Valar, KenGen, KCB, Gulf Energy, Maxxis, Safaricom, Lake Turkana Wind Power Project, Africa Bridge Fund, and Axum.
Their support reflects a shared commitment to sustainable mobility and conservation.
A New Chapter for Conservation and Mobility
The debut of an EV in the Rhino Charge signals a transformative moment for Kenya’s clean transport ambitions.
By showcasing the potential of electric vehicles in challenging terrains, EV Explorers is paving the way for future innovations in conservation, mobility, and infrastructure development, supported by robust government policies and private-sector collaboration.