Electric mobility firm BasiGo has partnered with Rubis Energy Kenya to launch a public fast-charging network for electric vehicles. The first station is now active at the Rubis Sabaki service station, marking a key expansion of EV infrastructure beyond Nairobi. This collaboration aims to enable intercity electric travel by deploying chargers along Kenya's busiest transport corridors.
Expanding Electric Mobility Beyond the Capital
Until now, most of Kenya's public EV chargers were located within the capital, restricting long-distance electric travel. This strategic initiative addresses that gap by establishing a reliable network on routes connecting Nairobi to other key regions. The expansion is designed to make intercity journeys in electric buses, trucks, and passenger cars a practical reality.
The new Sabaki station is equipped with 100kW DC fast chargers featuring both CCS2 and GB/T connectors for broad compatibility. This dual-plug system can serve a diverse range of electric vehicles, from commercial fleets to private cars. BasiGo notes a typical passenger EV can receive a substantial charge in under one hour, minimizing travel delays.
A Strategic Alliance for a New Energy Era
This collaboration leverages the unique strengths of two industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility. BasiGo brings its expertise as the operator of East Africa's largest DC fast charger network for its electric bus fleet. Rubis Energy Kenya contributes its extensive retail footprint of over 300 service stations across the country.
For Rubis, this venture signifies a strategic evolution from a traditional fuel distributor to a comprehensive energy provider. Company leaders have identified Kenya as a key market for this transformation, a model they intend to replicate across the region. The move demonstrates a commitment to leading the transition towards more sustainable energy and transportation solutions.
The Economics of Public EV Charging
The charging service will be offered at an indicative rate of KES 48 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) at all partnership locations. This retail price is higher than the base e-mobility tariff, as it covers the costs of hardware, installation, and maintenance. The rate also includes a commercial margin for the retailer, reflecting the investment in this public infrastructure.
Despite the retail pricing, operating an EV remains a more economical choice compared to using a petrol-powered vehicle. Traveling 100 kilometers in an efficient electric car would cost around KES 770 at these new stations. In contrast, a petrol car covering the same distance would require nearly KES 1,780 in fuel, highlighting significant savings.
Driving Kenya's Green Transition
This initiative aligns with Kenya's push towards sustainable transport, bolstered by supportive national policies and a growing EV market. The country's power grid, over 90% renewable, ensures these vehicles run on clean energy. Registered EVs have grown rapidly, from under 800 in 2022 to more than 35,000 by late 2025.
BasiGo's leadership has stated that the main challenge is no longer public demand but the availability of adequate charging infrastructure. This partnership directly addresses that need, aiming to build the confidence required for a large-scale transition to electric mobility. By making charging more accessible, the companies are removing a critical barrier to widespread EV adoption.
The BasiGo and Rubis Energy Kenya partnership is a pivotal development for electric mobility, tackling the core challenge of intercity travel. By integrating fast chargers into familiar service stations, the initiative is set to boost driver confidence and accelerate EV adoption. The venture's long-term impact will depend on the network's reliability, the pace of its expansion, and its price stability.