The Sh1.7m Air Yetu electric car that Ruto drove to KICC

The Autopax Air Yetu electric car that President William Ruto drove to the Africa Climate Summit. [Silas Otieno, Standard]

Transmission

Electric cars often have a single-speed transmission or no transmission at all.

This is because electric motors can provide a wide range of torque and power without the need for multiple gears. However, some electric vehicles may have a multi-speed transmission for added efficiency.

Regenerative Braking

Electric cars often feature regenerative braking systems. When the driver applies the brakes or lifts off the accelerator pedal, the electric motor switches into generator mode.

It converts some of the kinetic energy back into electricity, which is then fed back into the battery, increasing efficiency and extending the vehicle's range.

Control Systems

Electric cars use sophisticated control systems and software to manage the flow of electricity, optimise performance, and protect the battery from overcharging or overheating.

These systems also monitor and manage the distribution of power to the wheels for optimal traction and stability.

User Interface

Electric cars typically come equipped with a user interface or infotainment system that provides information about the vehicle's state, battery charge level, range estimation, and charging status.

Some vehicles also allow drivers to adjust various driving modes to optimise efficiency or performance.

Price

An electric vehicle would set you back between Sh1.7m and Sh2 million when it hits the market. That is for the same model that Ruto was driving (Air Yetu).

It comes in two trim levels; the standard range Autopax Air Yeti that allows the driver to cover 200km on a full charge and the long-range Autopax Air Yetu Pro that covers 300 km on a full charge.

The Air Yetu is the product of a partnership between Kenyan EV company Autopax and the Chinese automobile company SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW).

The car is manufactured in Liuzhou City, China, and assembled in Nairobi.