Skip to main content

Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles—The Future of Mobility in Kenya

⚡️ The Green Shift: Electric and Hydrogen Vehicles—The Future of Sustainable Mobility in Kenya Kenya is rapidly establishing itself as an African leader in the transition to sustainable transport, a shift that JETOUR and its parent company, Chery Group, are strategically prepared to support. While the immediate focus of JETOUR's Kenya launch is on high-quality, locally assembled SUVs, the long-term vision articulated by Managing Director Farouk Sheikh includes the crucial development of infrastructure and vehicles powered by electric and hydrogen energy . This move aligns perfectly with Kenya’s national goals for industrialization, job creation, and mitigating climate change. I. The Electric Vehicle (EV) Boom : Riding on Clean Energy The adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) is already surging in Kenya, particularly in the two- and three-wheeler segments, and the passenger car sector is catching up. JETOUR's planned expansion into this space is timely and potent bec...
Post a Comment

Younger drivers are rethinking car ownership. Learn whether owning, renting, or subscribing gives you more freedom and value.

 


Does Car Ownership Still Make Sense? A Modern Guide for Today’s Driver

Car ownership has long been seen as a symbol of freedom, convenience, and personal independence. But for younger generations—especially urban residents—the equation is changing fast. With rising costs, parking challenges, and the growth of Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS), many are asking a new question:

“Do I really need to own a car?”

The short answer?
It depends on your lifestyle, your budget, and how much flexibility you want.
Below is a clear breakdown to help you make the best decision.

1. Rising Costs Are Making Ownership Less Attractive

Cars are more expensive than ever when you add up:

  • Purchase or financing

  • Depreciation

  • Fuel or charging

  • Insurance

  • Servicing and repairs

  • Parking fees

  • Taxes and licensing

For many young adults, these combined costs outweigh the convenience of having a personal vehicle, especially if they only use it occasionally.

2. Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) Offers Flexible Alternatives

MaaS solutions bundle various transportation options into on-demand, easy-to-use services. These include:

  • Ride-hailing (Uber, Bolt, Lyft)

  • Car-sharing (short-term rentals by the hour)

  • Car subscription services

  • Scooter and bike rentals

  • On-demand public transportation

These models let you pay only when you need mobility, without the long-term responsibility or cost of ownership.

3. Ride-Sharing Works Best for Low-Mileage Users

If you drive infrequently—less than 8,000 to 10,000 km per year—ride-sharing can be more cost-effective than owning a car. You avoid:

  • Maintenance

  • Insurance

  • Depreciation

  • Fuel or charging costs

Plus, you don’t have to worry about parking, breakdowns, or unexpected repairs.

4. Car Subscriptions Offer the Freedom of Ownership Without the Commitment

Car subscription models are becoming increasingly popular because they include:

  • Insurance

  • Maintenance

  • Roadside assistance

  • Vehicle swapping options

  • A predictable monthly fee

You get the benefits of car access without the long-term burden of owning.

5. Urban Living Favors Non-Ownership

For people living in cities, access to:

  • Public transport

  • Ride-hailing

  • Short-term rentals

  • Micro-mobility (e-scooters, bikes)

often eliminates the need for a personal car altogether. In dense cities, mobility becomes a service, not a possession.

6. But Ownership Still Makes Sense for Certain Lifestyles

Car ownership is still the better option if you:

  • Commute long distances daily

  • Live in rural or semi-rural areas

  • Have a family that requires frequent transport

  • Prefer privacy and independence

  • Travel at unpredictable hours

  • Want full control over your vehicle

In these cases, MaaS may not provide the consistency or value you need.

7. The Future: A Hybrid Model

Many experts predict a future where consumers mix both:

  • Use ride-sharing or subscriptions for weekday mobility

  • Maintain one personal car for long trips or family needs

This hybrid approach offers flexibility while reducing overall costs.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Toyota Vitz vs. Nissan Note: Which is the Best Budget Hatchback for Nairobi Streets?

  Toyota Vitz vs. Nissan Note: Which is the Best Budget Hatchback for Nairobi Streets? When it comes to navigating the hustle and bustle of Nairobi, a compact hatchback is king. They are easy to park, fuel-efficient, and affordable. Two of the most popular choices you'll see on our roads are the Toyota Vitz and the Nissan Note. But which one is right for you? Let's break them down across the factors that matter most to a Kenyan driver. Round 1: Fuel Efficiency For most Kenyans, fuel consumption is a top priority. Toyota Vitz: The Vitz, especially with its 1.0L or 1.3L engine, is legendary for being a fuel sipper. It's one of the most economical cars you can run for daily city commuting. Nissan Note: The Note, particularly the 1.2L non-supercharged version, is also incredibly fuel-efficient, often rivaling the Vitz. The DIG-S (supercharged) version offers more power but uses slightly more fuel. Winner: It's a tie. Both are champions of fuel economy, and your actual co...
Post a Comment
Read more

The 5 Best Family-Friendly SUVs Under KES 2 Million in Kenya

  The 5 Best Family-Friendly SUVs Under KES 2 Million in Kenya Finding the perfect family car in Kenya is a balancing act. You need space for the kids and all their gear, the toughness to handle the occasional rough road, and a price tag that doesn't break the bank. An SUV is often the perfect solution, but which ones offer the best value for a budget of KES 2 million? We've scoured the market to bring you our top 5 picks for the best used, family-friendly SUVs you can buy in Kenya for under 2 million shillings. 1. Subaru Forester (SJ Generation, 2013-2018) The Forester is a Kenyan favorite for a reason. It comes with Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard, making it confident on both tarmac and marram roads. The high ground clearance is a huge plus. Inside, the cabin is spacious with a large, practical boot perfect for family road trips. Why it's great: Excellent safety ratings, reliable, capable on all terrains. Best for: The adventurous family t...
Post a Comment
Read more

Beyond the Purchase: Welcome to Vocheseleon, The Earth Community |Car Buying in Nairobi , Kenya

Congratulations! You've found your perfect vehicle. At Vocheseleon Inc. Motors, we believe that buying a car is just the beginning of an exciting journey. The true adventure of vehicle ownership involves ongoing care, maintenance, and sometimes, a touch of personalization. That's why we invite you to become a part of something bigger: Vocheseleon, The Earth Community. The name "Vocheseleon" (pronounced VOH-che-lee-on) embodies our philosophy. Just like a chameleon adapts to its environment, Vocheseleon Inc. Motors adapts to your every automotive need. We see the whole picture – from your initial search for a car to its long-term care and enjoyment. "The Earth Community" signifies our commitment to building a supportive network around you, the vehicle owner. Being a part of our community means you're never left to navigate the complexities of vehicle ownership alone. We connect you to a trusted ecosystem of essential services: Genuine Vehicle Parts: Sou...
Post a Comment
Read more