Switching to an electric car in Kenya can save you money on fuel and maintenance. However, understanding the cost of running an electric vehicle (EV) is crucial before making the switch. In this guide, we’ll break down how to calculate the cost of running an electric car in Kenya.

Understanding Electricity Costs in Kenya

Electric cars run on rechargeable batteries, which require electricity to charge. In Kenya, electricity costs vary depending on the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) tariffs. The key factors that influence your EV charging cost include:

  • KPLC’s unit price per kWh – This varies based on time and usage category.
  • Charging efficiency – Some energy is lost during charging.
  • Battery capacity – A larger battery requires more power.

Steps To Calculate Charging Costs

1. Determine Your Car’s Battery Capacity

Every EV has a specific battery capacity measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). For example, the Nissan Leaf has a 40 kWh battery.

2. Find Out the Cost per kWh

Check the latest KPLC tariff to get the current cost per kWh. As of recent rates, domestic electricity costs range between Ksh 15 to Ksh 25 per kWh, depending on consumption.

3. Multiply Battery Capacity by Cost per kWh

To calculate the cost of a full charge:

Battery Capacity (kWh) × Cost per kWh = Full Charge Cost

For instance, if the Nissan Leaf has a 40 kWh battery and the cost per kWh is Ksh 20:

40 kWh × Ksh 20 = Ksh 800 per full charge

4. Determine Your Car’s Range per Charge

Electric cars have different ranges. The Nissan Leaf can travel around 250 km per full charge. Divide the full charge cost by the range:

Full Charge Cost ÷ Distance per Charge = Cost per Kilometer

Ksh 800 ÷ 250 km = Ksh 3.2 per km

5. Estimate Monthly and Annual Costs

Multiply your daily driving distance by the cost per kilometer. If you drive 50 km daily:

50 km × Ksh 3.2 = Ksh 160 per day

For a month:

Ksh 160 × 30 = Ksh 4,800 per month

For a year:

Ksh 4,800 × 12 = Ksh 57,600 per year

Additional Costs to Consider

  • Home vs. Public Charging – Public chargers may have higher rates.
  • Battery Degradation – Over time, efficiency drops, affecting costs.
  • Maintenance Savings – EVs have fewer moving parts, reducing servicing expenses.

By following these steps, you can accurately calculate the cost of running an electric car in Kenya. Electricity costs are significantly lower than fuel, making EVs a cost-effective choice in the long run.