Opibus has ventured into the mass transit industry with the introduction of its electric bus in Kenya.
The announcement to take this step was first announced by Opibus last year when the Swedish-Kenyan EV startup raised $7,500,000 in a pre-Series A round.
The company is now running a pilot preparing for the commercial launch of EV buses in Kenya, which will take place later this year, and then across Africa by the end of 2023.
Opibus’ technology enables cost efficiency and simplification in the mobility sector. Since 2017, the company has leveraged Kenya’s increasing import of used vehicles to create affordable buses, trucks and fleet vehicles.
The company replaces expended combustion engines with electric systems and asides reduced transport costs, its EVs come with no carbon emissions.
Filip Gardler, Filip Lövström and Mikael Gånge are the founders of the startup which has so far converted over 170 vehicles for clients including mining companies and tour firms.
Opibus is now slowly pivoting to the building of EVs and supportive infrastructure, like public charging stations. Brand new Opibus electric buses will cost $100,000 and $60,000 for conversions — which the startup is using in the pilot program.
Interestingly, the company affirms that it designs and builds its vehicles locally. This is one major factor that ensures its cost effective and affordable product, and output tailored to local market needs.
Opibus currently targets expansion across Africa through partnerships that will drive the adoption of EVs across the continent.
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