The UK's push towards electric vehicles (EVs) is hitting a critical roadblock—a severe shortage of qualified EV technicians. With only 24% of the workforce certified to service EVs, repair delays, rising costs, and owner dissatisfaction are on the horizon. Regional disparities worsen the issue, with areas like London and the South East lacking enough trained technicians despite high EV numbers. Urgent action is needed. To apply for some of the roles, check out this website

Electrifying news from Uganda could soon shape Tanzania’s future in sustainable transportation. Uganda is launching East Africa's first electric vehicle plant, aiming to produce up to 5,000 electric buses annually. This move is more than just a local win—it opens doors for Tanzanian investors and innovators to join the green revolution.

With Tanzania's rich resources like nickel and cobalt, essential for electric bus batteries, the collaboration could lead to significant economic benefits. Imagine cities like Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and Arusha with sleek, zero-emission buses cruising the streets, slashing pollution and saving on fuel costs.

The potential savings are huge—Uganda could cut over $2 billion in fuel imports, while Tanzania might save 450 million liters of fuel each month. This isn’t just about cleaner air; it's about redirecting funds toward infrastructure, healthcare, and other crucial areas.

Uganda may be in the spotlight, but Tanzania stands to gain just as much. This could be the start of something big for the region.

Matatu operators across Kenya have announced a potential nationwide strike, driven by rising operational costs and frustrations with insurance companies and auctioneers. They demand immediate government intervention to avoid withdrawing services, which could lead to widespread disruptions.

In our ongoing commitment to spotlight the highs and lows of the travel experience, we bring you recent disheartening accounts with Modern Coast that underscore the importance of quality service and reliability.

Alex Mwanzo, an automotive expert, Damian T, Mesfian B, Yvon D and many others have all shared troubling experiences, highlighting serious service deficiencies.

Additionally, Modern Coast Company faced a significant regulatory setback when former CS Kipchumba Murkomen through National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) announced a ban on the company. This action followed the company's misleading advertising of routes between Kigali and Nairobi, as well as Bujumbura and Nairobi, without proper compliance.

These accounts reflect a disturbing pattern of service failures. Such experiences highlight the urgent need for transparency, proper maintenance, and adherence to high service standards in the public transportation sector.

 My name is Angie, I am a Sustainability Analyst based in Nairobi, Kenya.

I drive a Volvo XC60 , 2014.

Yes, Aluoch 

3 years

Going to work and road trips

 Mercedes Centre: I would recommend it; however, I don't have a comparison.  

 Volvo is the kind of car that only those who truly understand its value will choose. It’s an 'if you know, you know' (IFKYK) kind of vehicle. Renowned for its reliability, swiftness, and, most importantly, its world-class safety features, Volvo has earned a global reputation. Whenever we hear the name Volvo, the first thing that comes to mind is 'the safest car in the world.' Its comfortable seats provide perfect back support, while the adaptive headlights are invaluable in low-light conditions. The leather upholstery adds a touch of class, making every drive a pleasure.

 I love the safety features. They instill a sense of driving discipline, constantly reminding me that I'm in control with the help of active sensors like lane control, the blind spot information system, and the anti-collision system. These features are especially valuable when I get absorbed in the drive—if you know what I mean.

 I don't like the numerous buttons on the display; considering the technology available in 2014, a proper upgrade would have been possible. However, I love the newer automated versions from 2017 onward and definitely aspire to own one of those. Additionally, I'm not fond of the glass over the gear shift that tends to crack over time—a more sustainable alternative would be much more aesthetically pleasing. 

None

It costs me about $300 (Ksh 40,000) to run the car monthly

I really like the Limuru - Tigoni stretch!

 It depends on my mood, but I mostly listen to my Hillsong jams.

 Rarely, if at all. I'm consistent with my car services.

 The Volvo Shop: I feel it has created a niche for our kind of cars. 

 I love it clean and smelling fresh, which means investing in expensive washes.

 I would like to add some bass to my music system. I also want to explore more road trips.

 7—It’s nice and serves me well, but there are newer versions on the market. I wouldn’t mind an upgrade! 😂 

 Volvo XC60 2019 or any model from 2017 and later.

Any other thing you'd like to share?
Your car wash is either helping you maintain your car or destroying it.

Finally, Let's see some pictures!

Hi! I'm John Kahuria Ndogo, an automotive mechanic based in Juakali, Murang'a town, Kenya. I provide general vehicle repair and car services, mostly for Asian cars - toyota, subaru, honda, mazda, nissan and mitsubishi!

You can contact me on +254713463295 and [email protected]

Autohaven is here to make your car ownership journey as smooth and rewarding as possible. To do that, we'd love to hear from you! Is there a specific topic you'd like us to dive deeper into? What would you like to see more of in our upcoming newsletters? Your feedback will help us tailor our content to better meet your needs, so don't hesitate to share your thoughts!

Thank you for reading this week's newsletter!

Next week's issue might be a little meaty and different! Watch out 😊