In a race built to protect nature, it’s only fitting that the future arrived without an engine’s roar, but with purpose, power, and a promise: that even the wildest roads can lead to a greener tomorrow.
By Staff Writer | Ethical Business
In a groundbreaking moment for Kenya’s green mobility movement, EV Explorers has made history by entering the first-ever zero-emissions electric vehicle into the iconic Rhino Charge—a grueling annual off-road motorsport challenge that pushes machines and drivers to their absolute limits. But this year, the roar of combustion engines made room for something new: the quiet hum of electric innovation.
More than just a technical feat, this milestone marks a bold statement—sustainability and performance can go hand in hand, even in the roughest terrain. For 35 years, Rhino Charge has been a test of grit and gears, raising vital funds for the Rhino Ark Charitable Trust, which protects Kenya’s mountain forests and the communities that rely on them. With over KES 2.4 billion ($18.56 million) raised to date, the event has helped build 780 kilometers of electric fencing, shielding over 80,000 families from human-wildlife conflict.
Now, with EV Explorers in the race, conservation meets clean technology in a powerful new alliance.
“This is more than just a race—it’s a rally for the planet,” said Richard Kiplagat, team leader of EV Explorers. “We want to show that sustainable transport isn’t a compromise. It’s a solution that complements conservation.”
The electric 4×4, supported by a coalition of forward-thinking partners—including Africa Practice, Base Titanium, KenGen, KCB, Safaricom, Gulf Energy, Maxxis, and the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project—proved it could handle the same punishing course as its diesel and petrol counterparts. And with zero tailpipe emissions, it left a cleaner trail behind.
Engineer Nick Foley, part of the EV Explorers team, emphasized the deeper significance: “We’re pushing the boundaries of what EVs can do, not just on the road—but off it, where resilience is everything. If we can inspire innovation through this, the future of transport in Kenya looks electric.”
Their participation couldn’t have come at a better time. Kenya’s government has been actively laying the groundwork for an e-mobility revolution, with incentives like reduced excise duty on EVs, VAT exemptions, and a dedicated e-mobility electricity tariff. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) reports a rising adoption curve, bolstered by strong policy support and growing public awareness.
Even globally, Kenya is aligning with big ambitions. By signing the COP26 declaration to accelerate the shift to zero-emission vehicles, the country has signaled its readiness to lead the region in clean transport solutions.
For Gloria Waswa, Deputy Executive Director of Rhino Ark, the EV’s debut symbolises more than innovation; it embodies the event’s evolving ethos.
“Adaptation and environmental stewardship have always been at the core of Rhino Charge. Welcoming an EV is a natural and exciting progression.”
As the dust settles on another year of Rhino Charge, one thing is clear: Kenya’s road to sustainability is no longer just a vision—it’s being driven, charged, and trailblazed by pioneers like EV Explorers.
And the future? It’s electric.
