Africa’s EV future just accelerated. BasiGo is now the authorised service agent for CATL, the world’s top EV battery maker, which commands over 37% of the global EV battery market, bringing global battery expertise to the heart of Sub-Saharan Africa.
This landmark collaboration is set to transform the region’s EV ecosystem by ensuring reliable, local support for CATL’s cutting-edge battery systems.
As CATL’s authorised service agent in Sub-Saharan Africa, BasiGo will:
- Provide specialised maintenance and repair for CATL battery systems used in electric buses and other EVs.
- Establish service centres in Kenya and Rwanda equipped with CATL-certified tools and training.
- Manage end-of-life battery collection, ensuring safe recycling and sustainable waste management.
- This partnership addresses a critical gap in Africa’s EV adoption: reliable after-sales support.
Why This Partnership Matters
Africa’s EV market is accelerating, with over 100 electric buses already deployed by BasiGo in Nairobi and Kigali. However, concerns about battery maintenance and disposal have slowed adoption.
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This deal changes that by:
- Localising Expertise: BasiGo’s service centres in Kenya and Rwanda will offer world-class repair and maintenance, cutting reliance on overseas support.
- Boosting Reliability: CATL’s lithium-ion batteries, known for safety and longevity, will now have shorter repair times, ensuring uptime for EV operators.
- Promoting Sustainability: End-of-life battery collection aligns with circular economy principles, addressing waste management concerns as Africa’s EV market grows.
With CATL’s technology powering brands like Tesla, BMW, and Volkswagen globally, this partnership brings top-tier innovation to Africa’s doorstep.
How It Works: Powering EVs with Precision
BasiGo’s role as CATL’s authorised service agent includes:
- Certified Training: Technicians will receive specialised training from CATL to handle repairs for lithium-ion batteries, including CATL’s cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate (LFP) technology.
- Advanced Tools: Service centres will be equipped with CATL-approved diagnostic and repair equipment.
- Sustainable Disposal: BasiGo will collect end-of-life batteries, ensuring safe recycling and compliance with environmental standards.
This setup means EV operators in Kenya, Rwanda, and beyond can rely on faster repairs, longer battery life, and eco-friendly disposal, making electric mobility more viable.
Why This Is a Big Deal for Africa
Africa’s transport sector is a major contributor to emissions, with road transport accounting for 10% of global CO₂ emissions (IEA, 2024).
By strengthening the EV ecosystem, this partnership:
- Reduces Emissions: Electric buses and vehicles powered by CATL batteries cut reliance on fossil fuels.
- Drives Economic Growth: Local service centres create jobs and technical expertise in Kenya and Rwanda.
- Builds Trust: Reliable after-sales support encourages more operators to adopt EVs, accelerating market growth.
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What’s Next for Africa’s EV Transformation?
This partnership sets the stage for broader EV adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa. BasiGo plans to expand its service network beyond Kenya and Rwanda, potentially into Uganda, Tanzania, and Nigeria.
Meanwhile, CATL’s commitment to sustainability, including its Qilin Battery with 13% more power than competitors, ensures Africa gets access to cutting-edge technology.
Could this be the spark that electrifies Africa’s transport sector? With BasiGo and CATL leading the charge, the future looks bright.
Ronnie Paul is a seasoned writer and analyst with a prolific portfolio of over 1,000 published articles, specialising in fintech, cryptocurrency, climate change, and digital finance at Africa Digest News.
