Range and refuelling
With the charging infrastructure of electric cars in Kenya being patchy, the owners of these vehicles are limited to their movements.
An electric vehicle can cover up to 400 - 500 km on a single charge. However, the distance may vary depending on battery degradation, terrain, and, more so, driving habits.
Munene, the taxi driver, agrees that despite saving a lot after buying an electric car, his movements are limited since most towns outside Nairobi don't have the facilities to charge his vehicle.
"This is where I miss my Toyota Fielder, it was convenient traveling out of Nairobi because we have pump stations almost everywhere. Plus, fueling takes approximately 3 minutes at most, unlike charging the battery here."
Environmental impact
With the debate on climate change picking up momentum across the globe, electric vehicles are gaining traction and being embraced since they produce zero tailpipe emissions - ideal for reducing urban air pollution.
However, some pundits argue that the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries that power the EV involves mining and environmental costs, and electricity in some regions still comes from coal or fossil fuels.
Initial cost and incentives
Below the praises and efficiency comes the high upfront price of electric vehicles. The prices are steep mainly due to battery costs.
For example, a brand new Nissan Leaf goes for at least Sh1.3 million to Sh1.7 million when buying. This is despite the Treasury offering tax breaks and import duty exemptions to encourage adoption.
It is also key to note that ICE cars remain cheaper on their initial buying price, and clients have a wider variety of models, including affordable second-hand options.
Technically, choosing between an EV and an ICE vehicle depends less on ideology and more on practicality.
It is evident that the roads of the future are tilting electric, but the internal combustion engine still has fuel left in the tank.
Happy motoring!