FundiWaEV
#RoadToAddis - Day 1 To Day 8 Technical Summary
By AC
October 15, 2025 at 21:58
Day 1 - Nairobi To Nanyuki
Today marked a historic moment as the #RoadtoAddis convoy officially set off from Uhuru Park, Nairobi, the first-ever all-electric journey covering 1,600 km from Nairobi to Addis Ababa! Starting from the heart of Nairobi and ascending to Nanyuki’s scenic highlands, the electric vehicles successfully completed the first leg of this clean-energy adventure.
Day 2 - Nanyuki To Meru
Starting from Nanyuki, perched at about 1,950 meters (6,400 ft) above sea level on the equator, with Mount Kenya’s snow-capped peaks rising nearby, the EV convoy descended toward Meru, located on the eastern slopes of the mountain at around 1,500 meters (4,900 ft) asl. Originally, the plan was to reach Isiolo, which is a gateway to northern Kenya that sits much lower at roughly 1,085 meters (3,560 ft). The shift in altitude and terrain gave the team a new appreciation of how topography influences EV performance and energy use.
The decision to drive to Meru was informed by an unsuccessful search for an EV Spare tyre. Meru is by far a larger metropolis than the surrounding towns.
Day 3 - Meru To Marsabit
Day 3 began at first light, as the team set off from Meru with renewed optimism and determination to make up for lost time. The journey unfolded through a blend of beauty and challenge. Winding roads led the convoy from Meru’s fertile highlands — sitting at about 1,500 meters (4,900 ft) above sea level, through gently rolling hills that opened into the vast, dry plains of Isiolo, located at approximately 1,085 meters (3,560 ft). The transition from misty mountain air to sun-drenched savannah tested both the endurance and efficiency of the vehicles.
An awareness event, organized by UDGOON Sustainable Development Initiative (USDI) in partnership with Brainstar Schools in Isiolo , sparked lively conversations about how electric mobility can serve even remote regions. The team also captured powerful on-the-ground stories, local traders, youth, and drivers reflecting on what clean, quiet transport could mean for their daily lives.
From Isiolo, the road climbed steadily towards Laisamis, nestled in a semi-arid zone at about 1,200 meters (3,940 ft). After a short stop to recharge in Laisamis, the team pressed on to Marsabit, arriving late in the evening. At roughly 1,350 meters (4,430 ft) above sea level, Marsabit provided a much-needed rest point and a recharge station at the Kenya Power substation.
Day 4 - Marsabit to Moyale
Day four of the #RoadtoAddis expedition began in the windswept town of Marsabit, at the Big Tusk Hotel. Overnight, the electric vehicles (EVs) had been fully charged, ready for what would become the longest and most demanding drive of the journey so far.
Leaving Marsabit later than planned, the convoy faced intense crosswinds across the open plains, putting both vehicles and riders to the test. The Kabisa EV truck and a Kenya Power electric pickup took protective formation, shielding the lighter electric motorbikes from being pushed off course. Despite the difficult weather, the route offered breathtaking scenes, captured by drones and cameras as the team pressed on.
By late afternoon, the group reached Moyale, the last Kenyan town before Ethiopia. Unfortunately, border customs had closed, and efforts to gain clearance for charging on the Ethiopian side were unsuccessful. The EVs arrived with nearly depleted batteries, unable to continue until the next charge. Communication hurdles and logistical delays meant that the team had no choice but to spend the night at the border.
Day 5 - Moyale To Yabello
Day five of the #RoadtoAddis expedition began with exhaustion in Moyale, where the team had endured a sleepless night after customs delays left their electric vehicles stranded and uncharged. By midmorning, clearance was granted, and the convoy officially crossed into Ethiopia. Just 8 kilometers past the border, the Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) welcomed the team at a prepared charging station in Tilemado, marking the official handover of e-mobility support from Kenya Power to EEU. This symbolic transition represented more than a logistical step — it highlighted the shared commitment between Kenya and Ethiopia to advance cross-border electrification and sustainable transport across East Africa.
At the Tilemado charging site, each vehicle charged according to its capability, with the Kabisa EV truck and Kenya Power’s JAC T8 EV alternating on a 50 kW fast charger while others used slower AC units. The JAC T8 EV proved to be the expedition’s dependable workhorse, handling rough terrain with ease thanks to its 65 kWh battery and impressive range of 300 km per charge. By evening, all vehicles were ready for the 200 km night drive to Yabelo, marking the first major leg into Ethiopia. The day closed with a sense of relief and renewed determination as the team arrived late at Borana University, greeted by EEU staff prepared for overnight charging — a testament to the growing regional collaboration in e-mobility.
Day 6 - Yabello to Dilla
The stretch from Yabelo to Dilla marked one of the most technically challenging yet significant legs of the #RoadtoAddis expedition in terms of EV charging and route logistics. Covering roughly 360 kilometers of mixed terrain, the team faced the dual challenge of managing battery efficiency and ensuring charging reliability in a region with limited EV infrastructure.
Day 7 - Dilla to Adama
Day 7 began with the team leaving Dilla after successfully charging the vehicles overnight at EEU distribution box next to our hotel. After charging, the convoy continued toward Adama, passing through Shashamene, a busy urban hub teeming with three-wheelers and mule-drawn carts, a truly hybrid mobility ecosystem. The vehicles were plugged in at the Adama Bus Depot in the evening to end the day.
Day 8 - Addama to Addis
Day 8 began in Adama, with a sense of anticipation that could be felt across the entire Road to Addis team. This was it, the final stretch. Before the final leg into Addis Ababa, the #RoadtoAddis expedition gathered at the Adama Wind Farm — a fitting symbol of clean energy and regional progress. Beneath the sweeping blades of the towering wind turbines, the team paused for a historic photo, joined by local officials, media, and partners. The arrival of two Tesla Model Y vehicles from the Hyatt Regency fleet and a 20-vehicle delegation led by Ethiopia’s State Minister for Transport added excitement and prestige to the moment, highlighting national commitment to e-mobility and renewable energy.
From Adama, the reassembled convoy began its smooth descent toward Addis Ababa via the modern Adama–Addis Expressway. As the city skyline came into view, the electric vehicles glided almost silently, marking the successful completion of a groundbreaking cross-border journey.
Upon arrival, Eazy Power PLC and Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa inaugurated new fast-charging stations during an official ceremony and press conference at Hyatt Fendika. Partners and guests reflected on the expedition’s achievement