In a significant advancement for sustainable public transportation in Rwanda, IZI, an innovative provider of e-mobility solutions, has announced the expansion of its electric bus fleet following the successful performance of its initial five buses. The company has recently secured a substantial grant from the Rwanda Green Fund, enabling it to further its mission of electrifying Rwanda's public transport sector.

Initial Success and Performance Metrics

Since its launch just four months ago, IZI's pilot fleet of electric buses has demonstrated impressive results. Covering over 74,000 kilometers and transporting more than 250,000 passengers, these electric vehicles have not only provided a reliable transportation option but have also significantly reduced operational costs. Operators have reported a 38% decrease in running expenses, equating to savings of around $34,000 in diesel costs alone. Furthermore, the buses have contributed to environmental sustainability by mitigating over 60 tonnes of CO2 emissions. These achievements are monitored in real-time via IZI's proprietary platform, IZI Connect, which offers transparency and insights for fleet operators and investors alike.

Alex Wilson, the CEO of IZI, expressed his enthusiasm regarding these early successes, stating, “These results validate our E-Mobility-as-a-Service model. We’re not just reducing emissions; we’re proving that sustainable public transport is economically viable in Africa.”

Expansion Plans with Green Fund Support

Riding on the momentum of its successful pilot program, IZI has received a grant of RWF 300,000,000 from the Rwanda Green Fund. This funding will facilitate the deployment of an additional five electric buses in Kigali, set to be the most technologically advanced public transport vehicles in Rwanda to date. These new buses will feature an intelligent driver's cabin, air suspension for driver comfort, a full LCD dashboard, and a flat-floor design, enhancing accessibility and passenger experience.

The initial success of the electric buses has spurred interest from other public transport operators in Rwanda. IZI has secured contracts with four leading transport companies to deploy over 100 additional electric buses, signaling a robust demand for sustainable transportation solutions within the country. Andrew Mugisha, Deputy CEO of Volcano Express, one of the partnering firms, noted, “IZI’s electric buses offer us a path to significantly reduce our operational costs while contributing to a cleaner environment. We’re excited to deploy these buses on our routes.”

Infrastructure and Training Initiatives

Looking ahead, IZI is committed to establishing a state-of-the-art battery maintenance and repair facility in Kigali. This facility will support the growing electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem in Rwanda, positioning the nation as a hub of innovation in the EV sector. Moreover, IZI plans to roll out comprehensive training programs focusing on EV technology, battery diagnostics, and repair. These initiatives are essential to address the current skills gap in Rwanda’s emerging EV market.

Wilson highlighted the importance of training in maintaining the growth of the electric vehicle sector, stating, “As we introduce more EVs to Rwanda’s roads, it’s vital that we simultaneously develop the skills needed to maintain and repair this new technology.” The training programs will equip local technicians with specialized knowledge in high-voltage systems, battery management, and advanced diagnostics—areas that differ significantly from those required for traditional combustion engine vehicles.

IZI's holistic approach to e-mobility—combining fleet deployment, infrastructure development, and local capacity building—promises to transform Rwanda’s transport landscape while contributing to the nation’s ambitious environmental goals. By aligning with Rwanda's target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030, IZI not only sets a standard for sustainable urban mobility within the country but also serves as a model for similar initiatives across Africa. As IZI continues to expand its operations and capabilities, it underscores the potential for electric mobility solutions to foster economic growth and environmental stewardship in the region.