Kenya's iconic Rhino Charge off-road race to debut electric vehicle

Kenya's iconic Rhino Charge off-road race is marking a historic shift toward environmental sustainability in its 2025 edition with the entry of its first-ever electric vehicle. Made by Kenyan engineers under the name EV Explorers, the vehicle's entry reflects growing efforts to integrate cleaner technologies into motorsport and raise awareness about sustainable innovation in challenging environments.

The custom-built vehicle is a four-wheel-drive with front and rear differentials, two 480 kg batteries offering a combined 150-kWh battery life, and a centrally positioned steering column.

This year's introduction of Car No 29, a fully electric, signals a new chapter in the race's long history of combining motorsport with ecological stewardship. The vehicle is competing in the challenging terrain of Saimo-Soi, Baringo North in Kenya, a region that has hosted the Rhino Charge race for five times.

The event will feature 64 vehicles, all subjected to rigorous safety and environmental standards. But Car No 29 stands out as the first zero-emission entrant, aiming to demonstrate that sustainable technologies can withstand even Kenya's toughest off-road conditions.

The annual competition raises funds to support conservation of Kenya's vulnerable mountain ecosystems, having generated over $18 million since 1989 or its inception for projects such as electric fencing, habitat restoration, and community-driven ecosystem protection.

EV Explorers team leader Richard Kiplagat said: "We are proud to be the first team to attempt the Rhino Charge with a zero emissions vehicle. It is clear that climate change and conservation are linked and we wanted to raise awareness and funds with this in mind. We thought a zero emissions car was a great way to show what is possible and to bring some new excitement to our entry."

The Kenya's Wildlife Service also emphasized the event's conservation role stating that the electric mobility is gaining prominence in Kenya due to supportive government policies, lower operating costs, increased awareness, and heightened environmental consciousness.

The organization added that the Rhino Charge race raises crucial funds for protecting Kenya's mountain forests and water sources, working alongside government and partners to secure these vital ecosystems.

With support from Kenya's Ministry of Tourism and conservation partners, the 2025 Rhino Charge promises to blend thrilling competition with progress in sustainability and community upliftment.