The first batch is scheduled to land in Kigali next month, marking a significant step in the company’s broader plan to introduce 100 electric buses across the country by 2025. This expansion follows a successful capital raise in October last year.

The new fleet will cater to both city and inter-city routes, addressing the growing demand for sustainable transport solutions.

According to BasiGo, over 360 reservations for electric buses have already been made by Rwandan bus operators, either to replace outdated diesel buses or to expand their current fleets.

To support this expansion, BasiGo is also strengthening its charging infrastructure across the country.

A key part of this initiative is the Rwandex charging and service depot, which will be equipped with a 1MW power supply, capable of charging 25 electric buses overnight.

Additional charging stations are planned for deployment along inter-city routes to ensure seamless operations.

BasiGo’s business model, known as Pay-As-You-Drive, offers a comprehensive package that includes charging, maintenance, and insurance, along with a 90% uptime guarantee.

This model is designed to facilitate a smooth transition for bus operators integrating electric buses into their services.

Jit Bhattacharya, CEO and Co-Founder of BasiGo, expressed pride in delivering the largest shipment of electric buses to Rwanda so far:

“Rwanda’s dedication to sustainable transport has created a favorable environment for private sector investment in e-mobility. This shipment represents a major step towards the country’s vision of a fully electrified public transport system,” he stated.

BasiGo first introduced its electric bus pilot in Rwanda in December 2023, and the company has since experienced strong demand, with over 360 reservations already recorded.

Doreen Orishaba, Managing Director of BasiGo Rwanda, emphasized the company’s confidence in meeting market needs.

“Over the past 15 months, we have demonstrated the reliability of our electric buses and the effectiveness of our model for bus operators,” she said.