BYD by Cfao Mobility Kenya has delivered its first fleet of five plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) to Avenue Lease & Rentals E.A, with the fleet set to be leased to SBM Bank Kenya, signaling a growing shift among corporates toward sustainable and energy-efficient mobility solutions.
BYD models
The delivery, consisting of one BYD Shark 6 (DMO Plug-in Hybrid Pickup) and four BYD Sealion 6 (DM-i Plug-in Hybrid SUVs), marks the first significant corporate fleet deployment of these specific models in the Kenyan market signally a key appetite for hybrid models within fleet operations.
BYD by CFAO Mobility Kenya, GM Nicolas Ruffier des Aimes, lauded the ongoing corporate efforts by local motor dealers to introduce Electric Vehicles and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) in the local market.
“As the pioneer in New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), BYD is thrilled to see this partnership come to fruition. We are proud to see leading institutions like SBM Bank and Avenue Lease & Rentals E.A embrace the future of the automotive industry,” said Nicolas Ruffier des Aimes during the handover ceremony.
Auto shift: Kenyan companies move toward electric vehicle production
“By introducing the cutting-edge to the Kenyan market, you welcome a cleaner and safer environment in our streets and highways. We look forward to more opportunities to make sustainability a daily endeavor of our partners.”
EV Technology
The BYD Sealion 6 Premium and BYD Atto 3 Extended use advanced EV technology offering strong driving range, energy efficiency and modern safety and comfort features to provide a smooth, eco-friendly driving experience while keeping running and maintenance costs low.
“We are excited to take this significant step towards achieving our sustainability goals. Our commitment to reducing direct emissions is a dedication to creating positive environmental change,” said Bhartesh Shah, CEO of SBM Bank Kenya. “The introduction of BYD’s advanced hybrid technology allows us to modernise our logistics while significantly cutting down our CO2 emissions.
The transition to e-mobility is a core pillar of Kenya’s national climate action plan, which targets a 32% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030. BYD vehicles are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for Kenyan consumers who demand innovative, reliable, and sustainable mobility solutions. By integrating BYD’s advanced PHEV technology into its operations, SBM Bank Kenya is setting a new standard for the financial sector’s role in environmental stewardship.
Commenting on the partnership and fleet delivery, the Chief Operating Officer of Avenue Lease & Rentals E.A, the leasing company highlighted;
“Our decision to actively enter the electric vehicle leasing market through our partnership with CFAO Mobility reflects both our commitment to environmental stewardship and the evolving needs of our clients. Leasing EVs allows organizations to transition to clean transportation solutions without the heavy upfront capital requirements traditionally associated with fleet replacement.”
Environmental benefits
The COO noted that leasing PHEVs provides immediate environmental benefits for fleet users while accelerating the broader transition to e‑mobility.
“Leasing plug‑in hybrid vehicles allows organizations like SBM Bank Kenya to lower emissions today, while gradually transitioning toward full electric mobility. Reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 output, and improved operational efficiency are critical outcomes of this model”
Looking ahead, the COO emphasized that the move lays the foundation for future EVfocused transactions and longterm partnerships.
“This collaboration sets the stage for future EV fleet transactions, expanded adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, and the development of supporting services such as charging solutions, fleet management, and lifecycle optimisation. Our goal is to build a sustainable leasing ecosystem that supports Kenya’s green mobility ambitions while delivering measurable value to our partners.”
