Kiira Motors Corporation Building a better Uganda through Automotive
Kiira Motors Corporation is a State Enterprise incorporated under the Uganda Companies Act, 2012, to champion the Development of the Domestic Automotive Value Chain for job and wealth creation in line with Uganda Vision 2040. The equity partners are Government of the Republic of Uganda represented by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation and Makerere University.
The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation is mandated to provide Policy Guidance and Strategic Oversight to Kiira Motors
Corporation.
Kiira Electric Vehicle [EV] Manufacture of the Kiira Electric Vehicle [EV] project is expected to provide a big market for upcoming petrochemical industry.The project will also boost the market for plastics produced. According to the Ministry of Science,Technology and Innovation, the Kiira EV project will also utilise other local natural resources like steel from iron ore deposits, plastics from oil and gas petrochemical industry and lithium batteries from graphite ,among others. An estimated 150000 metric tonnes of polymers,from which plastics will be made are expected to be generated from the crude oil , according to the Uganda National Oil Company (UN OC).At least 100,000 metric tonnes of plastics will be produced annually ,UNOC indicated
With so far four vehicles to its patent works, Kira Motors boasts of been the producer and pioneer of;
Kiira EV
The Kiira EV is Africa’s first electric vehicle launched on 24th November 2011. It employs a simple battery electric vehicle powertrain consisting of an Energy storage bank, energy converter and an electric motor. It is powered by electricity which is stored in the battery bank through repetitive charging. The battery system of the Kiira EV consists of 4 battery banks of 64 lithium ion cells connected in series. The banking ensures energy system modularity for effective battery monitoring, safety, increased reliability and maintenance. The battery bank capacity of 40AH and 207V is engineered to achieve an inter-charge distance 80km.
The Kira EV
Kiira EV SMACK
The KIIRA EV SMACK is a 5-seater front-wheel drive sedan with a traction motor powered by a rechargeable battery bank and an internal combustion engine-based generator. It is the first Electric Hybrid Vehicle designed and built in Africa. This configuration of two power sources ensures an unlimited range and increases the efficiency of the powertrain, hence enhancing fuel economy. This innovative and iterative development programme was envisaged to realize KMC’s systems and requisite competences for the relevant and beneficial institutionalization of an automotive industry in Uganda. The vision of KMC represents the commitment of Uganda to develop indigenous solutions to her essential needs as well as being a fountain of the heritage of the Pearl of Africa.
The Smack
Kayoola Solar Bus
The Kayoola Solar Bus concept represents the next generation of public transport for cities within the region. The first of its kind on the African continent, the Kayoola Solar bus relies on lithium-ion batteries to power an electric motor that is coupled to a 2-speed pneumatic shift transmission. This technology serves to conserve the environment and public health. The telltale signatures of traditional diesel engine buses – plumes of dark smoke blowing out of the tailpipe and a grumbling engine sound — are replaced by a soft whine as soon as the electric bus accelerates.
The prototype which is designed to serve as an Executive City bus, is easy for riders to spot, thanks to the pearl white color adorned by the colors of the national flag. Its uncompromising beauty, elegant design and luxurious interior space bring to mind the rich heritage of the Pearl of Africa. The pearl white body, and wide sliding windows give the Kayoola a graceful exterior, with the proprietary design grille complementing the front.
The Kayoola Solar Bus will be easier to maintain, in terms of not having to change oil as is done in the diesel-powered buses and not having to repair hydraulic lines that run through a conventional bus. The bus is expected to run 80 km, or virtually a full operational day (for example Kampala – Entebbe – Kampala), between recharges.
The Kayoola offers a smoother and cleaner ride, experiencing less vibration and less noise as the result of replacement of the usual internal combustion diesel engine with an electric machine. The City will love the Kayoola as it quietly cruises past its noisy polluting competitors.
The Kayola Bus
Kiira EVS
The Kiira EVS is a 4-Seater Executive Vehicle built off the Kiira EV SMACK Platform fitted with a 2.0 Litre Petrol Engine, 5 Speed Automatic Transmission, and an exquisite Beige Interior Trim.
