KAMPALA– Despite the strides made in the development and manufacturing of electric mobility (EVs) both in Uganda, across Africa, and globally, the adoption of EV technology in pickup trucks, larger station wagons, and commercial trucks remains limited.
Speaking ahead of NCBA Bank’s 4th Edition Auto Show, scheduled for July 12–13 at the Kololo Independence Grounds, Mr. Douglas Kawalya, Assistant Sales Manager at Isuzu Uganda, emphasized that while the transition to electric mobility is well underway globally, Uganda is still in the early stages—particularly in the commercial vehicle segment.
“EVs in the pickup category are still under development and study,” Mr. Kawalya noted. “Although global manufacturers such as Isuzu have launched electric models in markets like Australia and Thailand, this segment remains largely untouched by electric mobility in Uganda.”
Currently, the majority of EVs available in the Ugandan market fall under the saloon car category, with relatively smaller engine equivalents, typically not exceeding 2000 CC. While these vehicles are gaining traction, the evolution of EVs for larger, utility-focused vehicles is still a work in progress.
Isuzu Uganda Gears Up to Showcase Innovation at NCBA Auto Show
“As you can see, the organizers of the Auto Show have put significant thought into how the general public can benefit from this event,” said Mr. Douglas Kawalya.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration within the automotive ecosystem, noting Isuzu’s consistent participation in the show.
“At Isuzu, we’ve been showcasing our latest developments and trending vehicles at the Auto Show, and we’ve gained significant traction from it,” he said. “But it’s not just enough for someone to admire or desire a car — affordability and accessibility are key.”
To address this, Kawalya praised NCBA Bank, the lead sponsor, for offering tailored vehicle financing solutions that make car ownership more attainable for the general public.
“NCBA is here to make owning your dream car a reality. But when you buy a car, you also need assurance—protection against unforeseen risks,” he added. “That’s where Britam Insurance steps in. They’re not just securing your vehicle; they’re securing occupants, third parties, and the overall lifespan of your asset.”