Kenya’s electric mobility industry gained fresh momentum on Wednesday as global electric two-wheeler manufacturer YADEA officially launched operations in the country, introducing a new motorcycle developed specifically for the boda boda sector.
The company unveiled its KIFA electric motorcycle during Autoexpo Kenya 2026 in Nairobi, underscoring Kenya’s importance in YADEA’s East African growth strategy as demand rises for cleaner, lower-cost transport alternatives.
Kenya becomes the company’s second market in East Africa after Ethiopia, where YADEA has sold more than 48,000 electric motorcycles over the past three years.
Built for commercial transport applications, the KIFA model is designed to serve boda boda riders and delivery operators seeking to lower operating costs while improving productivity. The motorcycle can carry loads of up to 250 kilograms and is powered by two removable 72V 30Ah lithium iron phosphate batteries, providing a maximum range of approximately 150 kilometres on a full charge.
A key feature of the motorcycle is its battery-swapping capability, enabling riders to replace discharged batteries in around 30 seconds and quickly return to service.
To accelerate adoption, YADEA has partnered with Kenyan battery-swapping provider ARC Ride to expand charging and battery exchange infrastructure across the country.
Speaking at the launch, YADEA East Africa Market Director John Zhang said Kenya represents a strategic opportunity for the company’s regional expansion.
“Following our success in Ethiopia, where we have sold more than 48,000 units in the last three years, we are confident our electric mobility solutions can support the growing demand for sustainable transport across Kenya and the wider East African region,” he said.
In addition to KIFA, YADEA showcased several other electric two-wheelers expected to enter the Kenyan market, including the performance-focused Keeness motorcycle and the GT25 and GT60 commuter models. The company also presented the GT70, designed for food delivery and last-mile logistics operations.
YADEA’s expansion reflects the growing shift toward electric mobility across Africa as governments, businesses and consumers seek to reduce fuel expenses, cut emissions and improve urban transportation systems.
Since entering Africa through Morocco in 2023, YADEA has established partnerships in more than 20 countries and continues to broaden its distribution and after-sales network across the continent.
Founded in 2001, YADEA has grown into the world’s largest electric two-wheeler producer by sales volume, operating ten manufacturing facilities and serving more than 100 million users in over 100 countries.
Its arrival in Kenya adds to the rapid expansion of the country’s electric mobility ecosystem, where startups, vehicle assemblers and energy companies are investing heavily in battery-swapping networks and electric motorcycle fleets aimed at transforming the boda boda industry.
