by Electric Safari Off-Roaders in Kenya
At the Sarara safari lodge, located in northern Kenya amidst the steep mountain ridges of the Matthews Range, where dusty trails wind through herds of elephants at dawn, the loudest object is no longer a vehicle. Previously, diesel Land Rover Defenders, though reliable, created significant noise, disturbing the peace of the wildlife. Thanks to the British company Electrogenic, which specializes in electric vehicle conversions, these off-roaders have been upgraded, allowing for quieter and more eco-friendly safaris.
Technical Details of the Conversion
Two Land Rover Defenders received the E62 kit, which includes a 62 kWh battery and a 161 hp motor, providing a range of up to 193 km in mixed conditions. The third off-roader was equipped with the more powerful E93 kit with a 93 kWh battery and a 201 hp motor, allowing it to cover over 320 km without recharging. All models support CCS fast charging, which replenishes the battery in 50 minutes.
Electrogenic, known for its work on an electric vehicle for actor Jason Momoa, implemented the project quickly and efficiently, teaching local mechanics how to install electric powertrains.
Advantages of Silent Safaris
The primary motivation for switching to electric vehicles was a practical necessity. During the rainy season, the roads in the reserve turn into mud, complicating the delivery of diesel fuel. Previously, this forced the shortening of safari tours, but now, with electric vehicles powered by the camp’s solar panels, operations can continue year-round.
The silence of the electric motors allows for approaching animals without scaring them, which enhances the safari experience for tourists. Furthermore, instant torque facilitates climbing steep slopes, and regenerative braking serves as an additional means of control on descents. At the same time, the original gearbox with a low-range transfer case has been retained, preserving off-road capabilities.
Prospects for the Region
The project has proven so successful that Sarara now officially represents Electrogenic’s services in Africa, promoting the electrification of other off-roaders in the region. This not only reduces environmental impact but also contributes to sustainable tourism development.
The transition to electric vehicles in unique places such as Kenyan reserves demonstrates how technology can be combined with nature conservation. This opens up new opportunities for preserving biodiversity and improving the quality of eco-tourism, which could become a model for other regions of the world.
