BYD by CFAO Mobility Kenya has officially delivered its first fleet of five plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) to Avenue Lease & Rentals E.A. This fleet is destined for use by SBM Bank Kenya.
The delivery consists of a specialized mix of BYD’s latest New Energy Vehicle (NEV) technology:
- One BYD Shark 6: A DMO Plug-in Hybrid Pickup designed for rugged utility with high efficiency.
- Four BYD Sealion 6: DM-i Plug-in Hybrid SUVs that balance premium comfort with low-emission performance.
During the handover ceremony, Nicolas Ruffier des Aimes, General Manager of BYD by CFAO Mobility Kenya, praised the proactive stance taken by local institutions.
“As the pioneer in New Energy Vehicles, BYD is thrilled to see this partnership come to fruition,” said Ruffier des Aimes. “By introducing this cutting-edge technology, we welcome a cleaner and safer environment to our streets. We look forward to making sustainability a daily endeavor for our partners.”
Bhartesh Shah, CEO of SBM Bank Kenya, emphasized that the move is less about optics and more about operational modernization.
“The introduction of BYD’s advanced hybrid technology allows us to modernize our logistics while significantly cutting down our $CO_2$ emissions,” Shah noted. “Our commitment to reducing direct emissions is a dedication to creating positive environmental change.”
The partnership highlights a growing trend: leasing as a catalyst for green adoption. By partnering with Avenue Lease & Rentals E.A., SBM Bank is able to bypass the high upfront capital costs usually associated with fleet replacement.
The Chief Operating Officer of Avenue Lease & Rentals E.A. explained that leasing PHEVs offers a middle path for organizations.
- Lower Emissions: Immediate reduction in carbon footprint and fuel consumption.
- Operational Efficiency: Lower maintenance costs compared to traditional internal combustion engines.
- Scalability: A foundation for future transitions to fully electric vehicles (EVs) as infrastructure develops.