Sun Run is an innovative joint venture formed between two startups, E-Safiri and Kiri E.V., in collaboration with Sustainable Transport Africa and Glasgow Caledonian University. The aim of Sun Run is to drive the transition to electric transportation in rural areas of Kenya, particularly in regions with challenging transportation conditions.
The project provides electric three-wheeled vehicles suited for difficult terrains, creating a sustainable and efficient transportation option for local communities. A PayGo (Pay-As-You-Go) rental model is implemented, allowing people to easily access these vehicles without worrying about high upfront costs. In addition, the project also deploys solar-powered charging stations, integrated with cold storage to serve fishermen and small traders, creating an effective and environmentally friendly renewable energy solution.
Beyond basic services like providing electric vehicles and charging stations, Sun Run expands into additional services such as battery swapping, maintenance, device charging, and accessory sales. These services not only improve the efficiency of electric vehicle use but also create numerous job opportunities for the local community.
A distinctive feature of Sun Run is its focus on training women and youth in technical skills and electric vehicle entrepreneurship. This training program helps enhance the skills of the community while also creating career opportunities in the electric vehicle industry.
Sun Run has also launched its first charging station at Dunga Beach, Kisumu, opening up opportunities for the development and improvement of transportation infrastructure in the region. This is a significant step in rolling out the electric transportation model in rural Kenya.
At the P4G Vietnam Summit 2025, Sun Run had the opportunity to showcase its sustainable electric transportation model, receiving great interest from international organizations and regional investors. The support from the National Startup Support Center (NSSC) facilitated the company’s connections with strategic partners, helping expand its network and develop the electric transportation model not only in Kenya but also in other countries.
Sun Run’s model not only helps develop renewable energy but also contributes to job creation, increasing income, and expanding sustainable economic opportunities for rural communities in Kenya.
