Indian electric vehicle manufacturer EKA Mobility and Ethiopian conglomerate Kerchanshe Trading PLC have entered a strategic partnership to distribute, assemble, and service electric buses and commercial vehicles across East Africa. The agreement was officially signed on Monday, 13th October 2025, during a ceremony held in Dubai.
As part of this collaboration, the partners plan to set up a local assembly facility in Ethiopia for EKA vehicles, broaden distribution and service networks throughout Ethiopia and neighbouring countries, and introduce a range of electric mobility solutions tailored to regional needs. This partnership merges EKA Mobility’s cutting-edge electric vehicle technology with Kerchanshe’s deep local expertise in assembly, distribution, and market operations.
EKA Mobility, supported by equity partners such as Japan’s Mitsui & Co., the Netherlands’ VDL Groep, and India’s Pinnacle Industries, specializes in manufacturing electric buses, small commercial vehicles, and three-wheelers. The company’s modular designs and lean manufacturing processes aim to reduce total ownership costs and make electric vehicles more affordable for mass markets.
Kerchanshe Trading PLC stands as one of East Africa’s largest conglomerates, with business interests spanning coffee export, manufacturing, real estate, logistics, and renewable energy. The group brings extensive experience in industrial operations and vehicle assembly.
Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder and Chairman of EKA Mobility, highlighted Ethiopia’s growing industrial base and commitment to clean energy as key reasons for choosing the country as a hub for East African operations. He stressed the partnership’s objective to deliver sustainable mobility solutions across the region.
Mr. Israel Degefa, CEO and President of Kerchanshe Group, emphasized that the collaboration combines innovative electric vehicle technology with local knowledge to foster green mobility and industrial growth in East Africa.
This partnership marks a major milestone in building a sustainable electric mobility ecosystem in East Africa, with promising benefits for job creation, industrial development, and environmental sustainability throughout the region.
