Kenya’s EV Revolution: How one engineer is sparking change through ingenuity

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity around the world, Kenya finds itself at a watershed moment. While new EVs remain a luxury for many, innovative local solutions are expanding what is feasible. Meet Joe Gakuru, a man whose path from a village without power to pioneering Kenya’s electric vehicle development has been nothing short of inspirational.

Humble Beginnings Spark Big Ideas

Growing up in rural Kenya, Gakuru learnt to improvise. In a village without electricity, a car battery became his family’s makeshift power source, fueling their TV. “Electricity was quite a hassle back then. A friend’s car battery became our makeshift power source,” Gakuru said in an interview with China Global South. This early experience with energy limitations shaped his future.

Fast forward to today, and Gakuru leads Qtron Industries, a company at the forefront of sustainable mobility. From retrofitting internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to crafting innovative energy storage solutions, Qtron is transforming Kenya’s EV scene.

Chinese Tech Meets Kenyan Ingenuity

Chinese manufacturers have become synonymous with affordable EV components. Gakuru relies heavily on parts like batteries and high-voltage connectors from giants such as BYD. He noted that “China is the largest supplier of EV components, even for global manufacturer. The affordability and availability of Chinese technology make it essential for retrofitting projects in Kenya”.

But Qtron doesn’t stop at importing. The company fuses these components with local and global innovations. For instance, Gakuru’s team has developed custom software to enhance vehicle performance, ensuring retrofitted EVs meet Kenyan road and user demands.

Classic Cars, Modern Hearts

For many of Qtron’s clients, retrofitting offers a chance to blend nostalgia with sustainability. Classic car enthusiasts bring in their beloved vehicles for electric makeovers. “These cars are built to last,” Gakuru explains, “and converting them into EVs is often cheaper than buying a new one.”

One standout project involved a $40,000 retrofit of a Volkswagen van. The result? A vintage vehicle equipped with a Tesla motor, fast charging, heated seats, and air conditioning. Such projects, while high-end, showcase the potential of retrofitting to extend the life of cherished classics.

Turning E-Waste Into Opportunity

Africa has long grappled with e-waste, much of it dumped from developed nations. Gakuru sees this as an opportunity. His team repairs and repurposes batteries from hybrid and electric vehicles, giving them a second life.

Partnering with local firms, Qtron recycles lithium and nickel-cadmium batteries, reducing waste while supporting Kenya’s renewable energy goals. Gakuru and his teame have repaired over 2,000 batteries so far while emphasising the need for sustainability and affordability.

Affordable Energy for Everyday Kenyans

Beyond retrofitting, Qtron builds custom batteries for e-bikes, scooters, and solar storage systems. By swapping out lead-acid batteries for advanced lithium phosphate models, they deliver longer-lasting, lightweight solutions.

One of Qtron’s standout achievements is repurposing EV batteries for home and business energy storage. A 150-kilowatt energy system for a hotel cut battery costs by 60% compared to new ones. The batteries are also designed to last up to 10 years which highlights their two-year warranty.

Challenges That Fuel Innovation

The road to Kenya’s EV future isn’t without bumps. Common issues include water-damaged batteries and malfunctioning charging ports. Imported Chinese EVs often need software adjustments to make them user-friendly in Kenya. Gakuru’s team tackles these challenges head-on, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Motorbikes, a staple of Kenyan transport, are a particular focus. Gakuru’s workshop has become a hub for repairing and upgrading electric motorbikes, addressing issues from battery repairs to performance optimization.

Driving Kenya’s Energy Transition

At its core, Gakuru’s mission is simple: make sustainable energy and mobility accessible. By combining imported technology with local ingenuity, Qtron is charting a new path for Kenya’s energy landscape.

From a powerless village to leading Kenya’s EV revolution, Gakuru’s story is a beacon of hope. His work not only addresses the high costs of EV adoption but also tackles e-waste and energy challenges head-on.

Can Kenya Lead Africa’s EV Future?

With visionaries like Joe Gakuru, the answer seems within reach. By blending innovation, sustainability, and resilience, Kenya is not just adopting EVs—it’s reimagining what they can be. As the global shift to renewable energy accelerates, Kenya’s EV pioneers may just light the way for the continent.