Centenary Issue

Vehicle Frames and Road Safety

A Publication of Automobile Association of Kenya Contents 1 Editor’s Note 1 Editor’s Note Message from the President 4 Message from the CEO 5 Message from the Road Safety Committee Chairman 7 Is your vehicle safe for you? Have you uring the Candidate’s Stage of the KCB Centenary Celebration Highlights Safari Rally in June this year, an excited AA Kenya hosts celebrations to mark 100 years of motoring 8 D heard about the excellence reveller along with three of his friends got onto the track in their car and tried to perform Special Report: AA at 100 a high speed turn. According to Gilgil sub- AA Kenya at 100 milestones 10 New AA Kenya county police commander Emmanuel Opuru, Feature the driver of the ill-fated vehicle was trying to How your vehicle chassis protects you in a crash 12 Prepaid Card? “imitate” the rally drivers when the incident AA at 100 occurred. One person died, three were badly Galton Fenzi: The gift that keeps on giving 14 injured in the incident. The car is reported to Our journey: AA Kenya’s 100 steps through History 18 have been badly crashed on impact. Kingsway Tyres The Gilgil accident is just one speck of sand Frequently asked questions in tyre care 23 on the seashore of accidents that have been

Road Safety Directory caused by similarly overzealous drivers. Just Vehicle body vital for road safety 24 recently, on December 12, 2019, 5 died and 60 were injured when two buses from the AA Events AA Kenya hosts celebrations to mark 100 years of motoring 28 Modern Coast Company collided head-on. The wreckage of the two vehicles was absolutely Roads with Patrick Omari cringe worthy. Thus begs the question, how Safer Vehicles: How deliberate are we on Decade of Action 30 for Road Safety? safe is the car you drive? In our issue this quarter, we revisit the subject of vehicle Safety Tips 7 simple ways to maintain safety on the road while driving 32 safety as a prerequisite for road safety. Our specific focus is vehicle frames and how they hold you down in event of a road crash. Bob Dewar: The magical journey of the Concours D’Elegance 35 in Kenya In our feature article, we explain to you how your vehicle chassis protects you in event of Motor News an accident. We also teach you what to do to What causes degradation in Electric Vehicles (EV) batteries? 39 get the best performance from your vehicle Motoring Hacks brakes as we guide you on safe road usage. How to ensure your brakes give you maximum output on the 40 How well do you use the road as a pedestrian, road What tyres are right for your car? 42 cyclist or driver? Are you really playing safe for yourself and fellow road users? Find out! AA Junior Membership AA Kenya joins Forester Nation in charity road safety drive 44 The Automobile Association of Kenya just hit Premier Classic the 100 - year mark this year. For an entire

Get discounts on: Table of Contents Safety Tips century, we have made safety and comfort Approach with Caution: A List of Blackspots in Kenya 46 of not just motorists but all road users our Motoring Hacks priority. In this issue, we offer you a front row Fuel Vehicle service & Shopping Meals Travel 4201 1006 1234 5678 How to get the NTSA Smart Driving Licence 48 4201 VALID seat onto our journey, including an account spare parts 4201 1006 1234 5678 THRU 0/0 4201 VALID THRU 0/0 JOHN DOE JOHN DOE Motor News of our founding father, Galton Fenzi’s epic Partner Parts Service Toyota, Tesla drawing car safety inspiration from self-drive 51 maiden journey by road from Nairobi to Oriel Kenya 25% 10% concept Mombasa. Subaru Kenya 25% 10% Uganda and Rwanda lead East Africa in switch to electric 52 vehicles This issue is a blend of old and new, as we Chloride Exide 30% - The opinions expressed in this magazine are not hold your hand through the captivating trip Dt Dobie 10% 10% necessarily the official view of the Automobile that is AA Kenya and its service to motorists. Kingsway Tyres Tyres - 37.5% 10% Association of Kenya. Shocks - 30% Have a read, and be safe road users! Batteries - 35% TO BECOME A MEMBER TODAY PRODUCED AND PUBLISHED BY The Automobile Association of Kenya P.O BOX 40087 - 00100 Nairobi, Kenya Winnie Wanzetse Tel: 0709 933 000 0709 933 790 Editor Email: [email protected] You Never Drive Alone 01 THERE’S SAFE AND THEN THERE’S SUBARU SAFE Our commitment to safety goes back to the 1960s, when we were the first Japanese auto manufacturer to conduct its own crash testing. Ahead of our time, we did not rest on our laurels. In 2008, we introduced the world’s first camera-based driver assistance technology, called EyeSight. No wonder that, across the globe, no other car brand has as many 5-star safety ratings and Top Safety Pick Plus awards as SUBARU. There’s safe, and then there’s SUBARU Safe.

Ring-Shaped Reinforcement NENON N EM Ring-shaped reinforcement frames form a hardened IDP is issued to holders of valid Kenya Driving License to enable them to skeleton from roof to door and pillar to floor. This creates drive in foreign countries. It is therefore termed as a translation of the a safe area within the cabin, diverting the force of any impact away from passengers. If there’s a crash, the Kenya Driving License in a format recognized internationally. The IDP must low-mounted position of the engine makes it be accompanied with Kenya Driving License. more likely to slide safely beneath the floor – keeping passengers out of harm’s way. NE E E EN ONEar assport It’s a bit like a roll cage in a motor sport vehicle. 1. A carnet guarantees payment of import and other taxes for the vehicle in the customs territories visited. 2. It acts as a car passport which facilitates hassles free admission to foreign territories. 3. It promotes tourism, business and education related travel and allows BUY PARTS BILA HASSLE multiple entry to some territories. Get Subaru Genuine Parts on www.subarukenya.com

NAIROBI KISUMU MOMBASA Subaru Kenya - Parts & Service Center, Addis Ababa Rd, Off Enterprise Rd, Industrial Area: Subaru Kenya - Service Center, Kisumu Oriel Mombasa - Authorized Subaru Kenya You Never Drive Alone Landline: 020 665266 | Mobile: 0722 203 782 / Kenol Petrol Station, next to Nakumatt Mega City: Parts & Service Center Links Road, Nyali 0733 333 686 Email: [email protected] Mobile: 0718 490 830 / 0736 514 433 Tel: 041 4470 753 | Mobile: 0713 026 982 / 0732 912 696 Message from the President Message from the CEO

AA Kenya remains committed to Rearing to go for the next 100 excellent service to members years

n behalf of the Governing Council, I take he just completed century has been a this opportunity to thank all Members of the transformational period for the Automobile OAutomobile Association of Kenya and our TAssociation of Kenya team and members. Since partners for your commitment to the Association inception in 1919 to present day, the Association has and in making our roads safer. been on the forefront towards making the Kenyan motoring journey safe and comfortable for the We are celebrating 100 years! It is not often that we motorists. get the blessing of living to be a part of centenary events, so when that happens, we must all be Year after year, the Association has taken the lead grateful to The Almighty God. in advancing the road safety agenda and making the entire motoring space safe for road users. Road safety Over the last 100 years, the Automobile Association has now become the fabric by which the Association has made tremendous contributions to the motoring is defined by, with spirited efforts being put forward industry, from Policy Formulation to Road Safety every day to uplift road safety. We run a defensive Advocacy. driving course all year round to ensure an outpouring Our commitment dates back to our inception and is of safe drivers onto our roads. With our various anchored on the firm belief that our responsibility partners, we have taken the message to the streets to champion Road Safety extends beyond our core where it matters most. Our initiatives, including the business. Every action taken over the years has Msamaria Mwema training of trainers, has helped start been towards growing this mandate and serving and maintain a culture of diligence in first responders Kenyan road users better. for scenes of road accidents. Over the years, the Association has continued Our advocacy in the media has ensured our road safety to respond to a range of social factors that have messaging reaches millions of people in the country profound impact on the lives of the people we and the rest of the world. We have also reached out serve. This informs our constant improvement on to children, who are the backbone of society, to help our value proposition to embrace the dynamic plant the seed of good road safety practices from a automobile environment. tender age, through the AA Kenya Junior Membership Programme in schools. Little by little we are watering It is with this positive mindset that I encourage all the seed that is future safe road users, by changing our members and Kenyans at large to always aim to society, one child at a time. be safe road users. We look forward to serving the Kenyan motorist even better in the coming century. Our milestones over the years have catapulted us to not only be the largest members’ association in the In conjunction with FIA and the UN, we have taken country, but also the voice of authority in road safety steps to safeguard the safety of all road users agenda. We believe that even as we march on into the through education, advocacy, policy making and next century, we will continue to make Kenyan roads law enforcement together with NTSA, KENHA, the safer and transform every Kenyan into a safe road office of the Traffic Commandant among others. user. We have made our roads safer and seen a decrease Jinaro Kibet in road carnage all across the country. AA Kenya We will continue to upscale all our initiatives to achieve Francis Theuri remains dedicated to realize the overall goal of the agenda of the UN World Decade of Action for President - Automobile Association of Kenya reducing road accident deaths drastically year on Road Safety, not just by the end of the decade but CEO - Automobile Association of Kenya year. permanently going forward. We will remain the Champions of safe road use and steadfast in our We will continue to engage and work closely with efforts at transforming the Kenyan roads into a safe the various stake holders in the automobile industry space for everyone. to champion Road Safety and increase our value proposition to our members. I would like to encourage you to be safe first and be wise in the decisions we make on the roads. Save a life, and Arrive Alive. Thank you for being part of this auspicious landmark in our journey. May God bless you, bless our roads and bless the Country of Kenya. Centenary issue

I Autonews Magazine Autonews

04 05 Message from the Road Safety Chairman Automobile Association of Kenya We will take road safety a notch higher this century or 100 years, the Automobile Association of Kenya has stood up to be counted in Fsupporting the road safety agenda for Kenyan road users. Decade of Action for Road Safety is held up by five pillars: Safer roads, Safer vehicles, Safer road users, Faster post-crash response, and Road safety management. The Association has remained steadfast in impacting strongly on road safety based on these five pillars. On safer roads and mobility, the Automobile Association is, for starters, credited with mapping of most roads in the country. Our founding father, Lionel Douglas Galton Fenzi, pioneered the first journey by car from Nairobi to Mombasa in 1926. After that he pioneered other roads including one to Khartoum and another to Dar es Salaam. Fenzi did not stop there, he went on to negotiate for loans to facilitate the tarmacking of some of these roads too. The Association oversaw a different kind of mapping; one that assessed the overall safety of a road, grading them as very safe, safe and unsafe or extremely unsafe. This helped the relevant authorities to then take part in making the highlighted roads safer. As a motoring Association, we strive to ensure safer vehicles get onto our roads every day. We conduct safari checks and advise drivers on the safety of their vehicles even before they embark on journeys to give them the head start they require. The auto clinics carried out frequently by the Association also allow for car checks to alert vehicle owners on the roadworthiness of their vehicles, ensuring overall vehicle safety. Advocacy on various platforms helps the Association to keep the world informed about safe road practices. 1919 – Founded by Lionel Douglas Galton Fenzi as the Royal East The Autonews Magazine remains the communication 1978 Nairobi International Show - AA Kenya stand AA Kenya Officials - 1981 Africa Automobile Association. tool for road safety messaging. It provides a regular channel through which we empower all road users with knowledge and skills on how to remain safe at all times while on the road. The same messaging is also replicated on our social media platforms across the year. This way, we change the mind-sets of Kenyans, one road user at a time. Dr. Manoj Shah Since inception, the Association has come a long way in boosting road safety. There has been a training of Chairman - AA Kenya Road Safety Committee trainers on post-crash response, empowering road users to save lives in event of a road crash. A lot of effort has been put in to ensure road safety remains 1923 – Riley 12/50 B3 donated to Galton Fenzi by Nairobi Mombasa Highway 1975 at Nairobi Mombasa Highway 1975 near a priority in the minds of Kenyans. The new century Riley Company, Coventry, London to test African General Motors junction General Motors bridge driving conditions brings with it new frontiers in the subject of road safety, and the Association remains unwavered in its commitment to continue keeping the roads safe. I urge all road users to remain steadfast in keeping not just themselves but other road users safe at all times. You Never Drive Alone

07 AA Kenya Hosts Celebrations to Mark 100 years of Motoring Excellence

A section of the members of the Governing Council A client gets their battery checked at the Auto Clinic area at the 100 years celebrations during the 100 years celebrations

The B3 on display during the member's dinner at the 100 years celebration

A section of the activity packed autoclinic area at the A section of classic cars on display at the 100 years celebrations. The 100 years celebrations Landrover, christened On Her Majesty’s Service (OHMS) won in its category.

Members of the AA Kenya Governing Council cut the AA Kenya President Mr Jinaro Kibet (R) and SBM Vice President and Head of Alternate Channels Mr Paul Kaguru (L) cake to mark the celebrations unveil the new look AA Kenya members (smart) card. Looking on is AA Kenya CEO Mr Francis Theuri

AA Kenya President Mr Jinaro Kibet cuts ribbon to commission the Galton Fenzi monument A section of the Kids' Fun Area at the 100 years celebrations Centenary issue

I

The AA smart card is launched at the 100 years celebrations. The card allows members to AA Kenya President Mr Jinaro Kibet feeds first bite of cake to longest The Riley 12/50 B3 in its full glory AA Kenya President, Mr Jinaro Kibet shares a light moment with subscribing member during the 100 years celebrations Autonews Magazine Autonews motor enthusiast & Concours d'Elegance founder Mr Bob Dewar buy fuel and purchase vehicle spares at subsidized prices 08 09 AA at 100 AA Kenya at 100

1919 – Founded by Lionel Kenya Governor Sir Edward Douglas Galton Fenzi as the Northey – First chairman of AA Royal East Africa Automobile Kenya. Association. First Association office in Hurlingham, Nairobi

1926 – Maiden Nairobi - Mombasa Trip 1938 – Association became member of AIT

1923 – Riley 12/50 B3 donated to Galton Fenzi by Riley Company, Coventry, London to test African driving conditions

First tow truck for road rescue service donated by AA South Africa

1962 – AA started operating driving school with a Ford Anglia championed by late M.A.S Northcote and British army officers 1953 - First publication of the Autonews Magazine 1963 – Association changed name to East African Automobile Association after East African countries gained independence in the 1960s.

1967 - The EA Community collapsed and each Centenary issue

I of the three states assumed an independent role of running its own association, thus name changed to Automobile Association of Kenya. 1978 Autonews Magazine Autonews

10 11 Feature Engineering A lot of consideration goes into design and engineering How your of the chassis. Engineers use high quality steel to maintain a chassis’ strength and shape it to create a frame that accommodates the car’s features along with the weight of the driver, passengers, luggage and fuel. During initial Vehicle Chassis development, the height of a chassis’ steel beams is taken into consideration because it provides the strength to resist the forces applied to it when all other car components are rotets ou i added. Apart from weight, a chassis is expected to take on the pressure of movement e.g. turning over sharp corners when fully loaded. Termed torsional resistance, a chassis is expected to be strong enough not to twist at any time on a ras the road. This is addressed by use of cross-supports which come in the shape of an “X”, a “U” or a “K”. These options allow engineers to combine different types of cross-supports within one chassis to maximise strength while improving the quality of the ride.

Style and Power The constantly emerging demand for stylish and powerful cars has affected chassis design as engineers seek to accommodate every queer design need. Seating positions, boot sizes and engines all directly determine how a chassis is put together. To maintain safety while embracing various design needs, tests are run on prototype vehicles to ascertain vehicle safety at all times before releasing the model for daily use. FEATURE

he chassis is a metal frame that runs along the bottom of But what gives collapsing to protect the vehicle Ta car. All other parts of the car occupants from the effects of are built either on top of or around the chassis its impact. this frame. The vehicle chassis is very critical ‘superpowers’ to to car design and manufacture. protect you in Safety oriented Its tenacity comes in very handy ?The most important feature of during crashes as it absorbs most event of a crash chassis design is safety. The chassis of the impact. A sturdy chassis is tough to be able to distribute remains standing after a collision, crash energy along its length in the saving lives. event of a rear or head-on accident. Stress A damaged chassis majorly affects When it does this distribution, the the ability of a car to absorb the The car’s chassis takes on all the ‘ripple effect’ helps a car to stay in impact of a crash as effectively stress a vehicle endures. Day- one piece and preserve the shape Sports Cars as it should since it may not be to-day use has the car chassis of the driver and passenger cabin. as sturdy/ fool proof as need withstanding the weight of the car Its cross supports also helps to Sports cars have a higher demand on stability because they are more prone to crashes due to their high especially on impact like potholes, keep a car intact. This does not speeds and sharp turns. They therefore use a three-dimensional chassis which creates a cage around the Centenary issue be. Garages can use lasers to

I measure a chassis and check that bumps and rough roads, and also necessarily mean the driver and vehicle. The engineers run a tubular steel frame beneath the body of the car and around it. The vehicle’s a crash hasn’t compressed, bent or cope with the running of the engine passengers may survive a crash bodywork is attached to the cage and may use aluminium instead of steel panels to reduce overall weight. cracked it. Such a check can easily and the movement of the wheels. but a safe chassis increases their However, the body panels are not built to withstand stress and the crash-resistant strength of the sports car be the difference between safety A good chassis holds the vehicle chances of survival in case of a is mainly within the metal cage. Autonews Magazine Autonews and severe injury and/ or death. down through all the stress without serious accident. 12 13 AA at 100 AA at 100 Galton The Gift That The Car he Riley 12/50 or just the Keeps on Giving TB3 as is fondly called, was a real beast of burden. Fenzi By Baraza JM and Winnie Wanzetse Fitted with Dunlop Balloon Tyres, it also came with or many, the mention of the name Galton Fenzi does not ring a loud two spare wheels. Both bell, but his legacy still holds true for not just Kenyans but East front and back seats could FAfricans too. He will be forever remembered for giving Kenya, and be lifted out by undoing the larger East Africa a gift that has continued to give more long after his two screws for the front official exit from the world. seats and one nut for the back seat. The B3 had a Deceased for almost 70 years now, Lionel Douglas Galton Fenzi is credited very large radiator with an for not only advocating for the first motor vehicles in the East Africa efficient fan which made region, but also for pioneering some roads in the region. Here is a blow by sure the radiator never blow account of how he achieved this. overheated. All of the Riley’s parts very good quality, for In early 1923, Galton Fenzi started negotiating for loans of cars to be tested even after completing a record under East African conditions. Among the donations Fenzi received was 10,000 miles, not a single part of the Riley 12/50 HP Touring Model. This motor vehicle was sent out by the the vehicle had needed replacing. Riley Motor Car Company, Ltd, Foleshill, Coventry. Being a true beast of burden, the Riley carried almost half a tonne in weight (including trip supplies) but still Around this time, three routes were proposed: via Kajiado, Moshi and scaled the rocks and hostile terrain without much of a complaint. The tyres were wrapped up in quarter-inch through Voi to Mombasa; via Kitui to Kilifi and back Voi to Mombasa; via thick leather gaters to protect them from thorns. This did not however prevent the thorns from penetrating the Kitui to Kilifi and back to Mombasa (with mostly unexplored terrain and no tyres and resulting in 56 punctures total by the end of the trip. Most evenings, Captain Gethin spent repairing water supply for the most part; and using existing roads to Emali then use a direct road to Mombasa parallel to these punctures. During the journey, the riley doubled up as a bedroom by night when the seats were screwed the railway. Fenzi and Gethi chose the first route suggested, albeit with a few practical amendments. out and a mosquito net thrown all over its top.

The Maiden Journey From Nairobi to Mombasa

ebruary 1926, Lionel Douglas The Monument FGalton Fenzi and Captain All this while, the heat was oppressive, water was Gethin set off on their pilgrimage scarce and the air was thick and difficult to breathe. trying to establish The New Capital A constant worry was not the bush itself, but the to Coast Road. Somewhere along infestation of rhinoceros which Fenzi was nervous could quickly transform their little car into a pile of fter this maiden trip, Fenzi pioneered the way were traces of the old several other trips around East Africa, Sclater Road which had been firewood and spare parts in short order. Fortunately, A they did not encounter any. mapping out routes that would later become abandoned 20 years earlier after major highways. He also negotiated for the completion of the railway. loans which funded the tarmacking of Fenzi and Gethin had the honour And? There was finally light at the end of the green tunnel. From Mackinnon, there existed a new road that some of these roads. When he returned of being the first people ever to to Nairobi from the first trip, Galton-Fenzi arrive in Samburu by car, but this linked Samburu to the sea via Kwale and on to Likoni Ferry where a motor punt provided a crossing over to placed a stone at a point near where the moment of glory was short-lived present day Nairobi Gallery stands. as Fenzi was immediately attacked Mombasa Island. They had made it. This journey was only 1,200 miles in total! by bees as he tried to “perform his For his contribution to the transport ablutions” (take a bath). It had finally been done. Much as Fenzi and Gethin world in East Africa, the Royal East Africa Automobile Association erected a Between Voi and just after Mackinnon used a route that was mostly not the current Mombasa Road on that trip, they had proved that such a drive monument in Fenzi’s honour at the same Road, there was, well, no road (I see the irony spot in the year he died (1937). From the there) which forced the two pilgrims to hack their way through bushes and thickets some of which soared was feasible and that opened up a whole world of possibilities. In August of that year, Fenzi decided to point where this beacon stands (near the to twenty feet in height. This is where the locals came in handy, carving a path through flora with exotic General Post Office), christened Distance nomenclature such as sansovera, thorns, cactus and sisal. Progress was difficult. try Route No. 3, running parallel to the railway line from Emali to Voi, which he was pleased to find was made Zero, distances from Nairobi to other Centenary issue

I of hard-packed red soil that enabled him to clock up parts of the country and the rest of East The track for the B3 was prepared in three stages: the first group of natives hacked away at the shrubbery, Africa are now measured. Every distance leaving stumps chopped off at a 45-degree angle which were deadly sharp. The next group of men widened to 45mph (72km/h) which in those days equated to warp speed. This is what eventually came to be the between Nairobi and other cities in the the track, clearing branches and picking out stones. The last group of men cut the grass, uprooted the stumps region is measured from Distance zero. Bet and levelled off the earth in an attempt to make a track as flat as possible. Mombasa Road we know and use today. Autonews Magazine Autonews you didn’t know that, did you?

14 15 Safety Tips Safety Tips

Vehicle Frames and Road Safety By Baraza JM

ow, followers of my motoring column in the Daily Nation newspaper must know by now that I spent a considerable Nchunk of time in school last year studying something called Road Safety Leadership. Part of the curriculum involved a field trip to the world-famous IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) at Arlington, Virginia in the US. This is what I found... What happens at the IIHS is, they take brand new cars and either crash them against a wall or against each other to determine which one comes out on top, kind of like an a illegal backstreet dog fight; the difference being, no animals or people are harmed in the IIHS’ experiments and the winner is not always the one with the least damage. This may take some explaining... There is a popular belief that if a car takes very little damage in a crash, then that car must be good safety-wise. This is not necessarily accurate; in fact in most cases the opposite is true. It all boils down to transfer of energy. A moving vehicle has what we call kinetic energy. Given the mass of the vehicle and the speed it is moving at, this kinetic energy is quite a lot. When stopping, the braking system transfers this kinetic energy into heat energy via friction at the wheel brakes, which is why the brakes heat up and wear off with continued use. There is another way to stop a moving vehicle, and that is by having a massive crash. Once the vehicle stops by hitting something, that kinetic energy it possessed has to be transferred A car that elsewhere. Energy can neither be resists created nor destroyed, it can only change form. Since that kinetic This deliberately energy has not been changed sums up collapse and dissipate damage from (entirely) into heat, it finds another what I wrote in the energy in a crash, deflecting impact will path: bending and breaking stuff. the second paragraph. it away from the delicate bags of Now a moving car for the most This brings us neatly into the other meat inside the vehicle. actually hurt part has two critical components: part of this discussion: vehicle Chassis design is not all about itself and its occupants. When the frames.Vehicle frames are also crashing, it is also about the the occupants kinetic energy seeks an alternative what we refer to as the chassis avoidance of crashing. New path and resorts to bending and and they come in various forms designs and development optimize more than one breaking stuff, there are only two and types that will be discussed vehicle handling eliminating available options: the car or the elsewhere, but one of the key such unwanted characteristics that gets bent occupants (mostly both). You developments in motor vehicle as understeer and oversteer to can see where this is going: if the design and engineering is creating keep the car pointed where it’s Centenary issue

I car remains undamaged, it’s the chassis that will minimize the supposed to go. completely out occupants who will bear the brunt damage that the vehicle occupants take in a crash. Energy absorption of that energy transfer. Injuries of Baraza JM is a specialist in of shape. components called crumple all kinds abound, and sometimes motoring

Autonews Magazine Autonews death as a result of those injuries. zones are looked into and built to

16 17 AA at 100 AA at 100 Did you Know The First Issue of Autonews Magazine was published in 1953 and was only one page long?

1953 saw the Association also launch an official publication, Autonews magazine, in 1953. It came to OUR JOURNEY serve as a medium of expression for members and a means of disseminating information and news to AA Kenya’s 100 steps through History members. A member’s only magazine, Autonews was distributed regularly to members. As it celebrates its 66th year of existence, Autonews is now available to both members and non-members and exists in both he Automobile Association Nairobi to Mombasa through a print and electronic format. It remains the of Kenya started out as the distance of almost 1,200 km. This In January 1926, platform for presenting the road Royal East Africa Automobile they did through dense bush and T Galton-Fenzi and safety message to the public. Association founded in 1919 by uneven terrain as they hacked their Lionel Douglas Galton Fenzi. The route through. 53 punctures later, Captain Gethin While trying to diversify first Chairman of the Association they made it to Mombasa. its services, the was the then Governor of Kenya, Sir used the Riley to Association started a Edward Northey, whereas Galton In similar fashion, Galton-Fenzi went pioneer a motor Driving School in 1962. Fenzi played the role of Honorary on to pioneer the Nairobi-Dar es Initially, there was Secretary until his death in 1937. Salaam-Malawi as well as Nairobi- vehicle Road only one car available The Association was started with Khartoum route. Galton-Fenzi was from Nairobi to for this function, a four major aims: to promote and also able to raise and distribute Ford Anglia. The safeguard the interests of motorists money towards the tarmacking of Mombasa through brainchild of M.A.S by providing information and several roads in East Africa. Since a distance of Northcote and other advice on purchase maintenance then we have advanced to now ex-British army men, and repair of vehicles; negotiating have superhighways complete almost 1,200 km. the driving school attractive insurance premiums; with interchanges, opening up the instructors instilled a road mapping and setting up of country to access, exploration and and 753 by 1946 prompting the lot of discipline in the The Ford Anglia used by British Soldiers as first driving instruction vehicle at the petrol depots. investment. Association to open Membership to training. The AA driving Royal East Africa Automobile Association, (PHOTO Courtesy) non-Europeans by 1950. Since then school now happens to be The subsequent opening up Initially, AA Membership was limited there has been a boost to the overall one of the most respected schools and development of East Africa to only members of European membership which stands at about in the country, training several hundred thousand is credited to the Automobile origin and rose to 2,000 by 1925. 100,000 currently. The product students each year. With training for different Association of Kenya. In 1923, A Royal Charter was granted in offering has since expanded, carved classes, from motor bikes, light vehicles, commercial Galton-Fenzi started negotiating 1921 paving way for the first Annual out to fit every unique need Kenyans and heavy commercial; the service has grown for loans of cars to be tested under General meeting on January 27, may have. For that, individual to accommodate almost all the driver’s training East African conditions. Galton- 1921. The membership then, though membership expanded to have the needs for Kenyans. Available in all of AA Kenya’s Fenzi received many vehicles, at less than 1000, represented Classic, Prestige and Premier to 28 branches and growing, the driving school has among them a Riley 12/50 from more than 70% of the entire which provide varied benefits for comprehensive curricular for both the learners’ the Riley Motor Car Company motoring population. The number

Centenary issue each member. There also now exists

I course and refresher training. The school also of Coventry, United Kingdom. In has multiplied over the years to Corporate Membership schemes conducts proficiency assessment for existing drivers January 1926, Galton-Fenzi and stand at 100 times that! However that allow for companies to cover before employment and conducts defensive driver Captain Gethin used the Riley to the Second World War worked back both their vehicles and those of their training for commercial and even private drivers. pioneer a motor vehicle Road from the membership to 1,189 by 1939 staff. Autonews Magazine Autonews

18 19 AA at 100 AA at 100

In early 1960s the East African countries AA Kenya also started Vehicle Inspection and Valuation services Due to its affiliation with achieved independence. In 1963, the where it offers various levels of valuation from a basic pre-insurance International Touring Association changed its name to the valuation; technical brief valuation; full mechanical; accident Alliance (ALT), the AA East African Automobile Association. assessment; pre-theft; pre-fire assessments and inspection of motor Kenya is the only institution In that same year, the Coronation vehicle components. AA Kenya does a thorough check on vehicles in Kenya that can provide Safari Rally was named the East to ascertain its condition and value for sale, purchase or insurance certain documents in way African Safari Rally. The East African purposes. For its members, AA also is always on call to provide of Touring and Licensing Community collapsed in 1967 and each technical advice on services like garages and spare parts. In that services. These documents of the three states (Kenya, Uganda, regard, AA has also partnered with top service providers to ensure are the International Driving Tanzania) had to run independently. members access only the best services. The Valuation service has Permit and the Carnet Did you know,, Thus, the Kenyan chapter assumed grown to be superior and recognised all over the country making AA de Passage recognised AA Kenya is the the name Automobile Association Valuation a trusted service. worldwide. of Kenya. Thus, the Kenyan chapter assumed the name Automobile The International Driving only institution Association of Kenya. Permit serves as a driving permit in foreign countries in Kenya that Among other services that AA Kenya and saves the driver the provides is roadside Towing and hustle of having to acquire can issue the recovery. A free service for members, individual driving licences it covers towing on mechanical in whichever country they International breakdowns and rescue interventions visit. It is issued against a for other problems like jumpstarting valid Kenyan driving license. Driving Permit and car battery, retrieving car keys and The ‘Carnet de Passage’, running out of fuel. In areas away from a customs document, Carnet de Passage? AA’s immediate reach, the Association permits temporary entry of has partnered with agents to ensure a car into a foreign country immediate assistance for its members. without having to pay a We have managed to make true our customs bond. reassuring promise that Assistance is only a phone call away. Through its subsidiary AA Insurance Brokers, AA Kenya also negotiates attractive premium rates with reputable insurance companies for its members. The firm was started to also assist with any insurance concerns and follow up claims to make the insurance process as seamless and efficient for clients as possible. The Association also provides free Legal advice for members on matters to do with vehicle ownership, acquisition and transfer along with what to do in certain situations like in event of road accidents. Currently, our subsidiary, the AA Institute, is at hand to deliver advanced training in vehicle handling, mechanics, management and emerging technology. This will allow drivers and vehicle handlers to understand the vehicles better First tow truck donated to AA Kenya by AA and also keep them in optimal South Africa Current tow truck used by AA Kenya safe performance condition.Safer vehicles happen to be one of the pillars in UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, and at AA Kenya, we are making the roads safe, one vehicle at a time.

AA Kenya has partnered with agents to ensure immediate assistance for its As we advance into the next decade, AA Kenya is excited about the next range of

Centenary issue members. We have managed to make true our reassuring promise that Assistance is

I product offering in store and the growth that only a phone call away will follow. With most of the services streamlined in superior management systems, service delivery has become more efficient as the Association embraces

Autonews Magazine Autonews technology as the gateway to satisfactory service. 20 21 Frequently Asked Questions in Tyre Care By Bobby Odhiambo? ingsway Tyres remain the world renown tyre experts. KApproximately 500 certified drivers have undergone training with the Kingsway Tyres Technical team in the last three years. These trainings have been conducted in 30 different programs all over the country. The spectrum of trainees came in the form of women matatu drivers, tour operators, truck drivers and tea estate drivers. Yet many questions still linger in the majority of drivers that ply our highways every day. This article therefore touches on some of the queries that may prove the driver on matters safety on the road as concerns tyre care.

How often should we conduct What is the recommended alignment on our vehicles? pressure for my tyres? How does Answer: A fallacy that exists in tyre inflation affect vehicle safety the minds of many is that new on the road? trucks (or vehicles) do not require Answer:Pressure recommendations alignment. Yet multiple inspections are normally given by vehicle and corrections by our KTL teams manufacturers and can be found have proved otherwise. Different written on various parts on the Road cambers (overseas and vehicle. The door and fuel tank locally) / Shipping overseas and Are tyre retreads safe? cover are some of the places where assembly of CKDs (Completely Answer: Plane air tickets would these recommendations may be Knock Down Units) are reasons rise considerably if tyres on the written. Tyre experts often use enough to subject these brand- planes would not be retreaded. If data books for the same purpose, new units to alignment checks the safest mode of transport uses having conducted a load and route and adjustments. A break in retread tyres, then the same tyres study of the vehicle. Under or over- alignment is recommended after can be used on truck tyres. Tyre inflation can cause the vehicle 15,000 to 20,000 km as parts ‘debris’ – also known as crocodiles to under- or over-steer resulting of the vehicle suspension would or alligators that litter or highways from poor steering response and a have settled. Apart from over/ are mostly as a result of poorly distorted tyre footprint. This makes understeering which may result pressurized tyres. it harder to control the vehicle. For a from misalignment, the other safety safer ride, ensure that tyre inflation concern is the risk of damaging Bobby Odhiambo is the Technical and is checked when tyres are cold. vehicle suspension components. Sales Manager at Kingsway Tyres Ltd 23 Road Safety Directory Road Safety Directory a column out of two strong tubes, using zig-zag interconnection in between bars ensuring there’s a Vital safety Features Involved correct angle from roof to column and another one The critical safety features involved in bus building as from the column into the bus body. Vehicle body stipulated in the Traffic Act and the Kenya Bureau of On the other hand, body builders could stabilize the Standards (KEBS) bus standards compiled by Kenya roof through reinforced side pillars. Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) Limited (one of the key vital for road safety assemblers in Kenya) include: roll over protection, Side impact protection involves two recommended front impact protection, side impact protection, Cross options; the use of triangular vertical reinforcement underneath the floor which gives structural strength By Moses Anemba members, gangway and seat arrangement, side wall diagonals, passenger door, passenger seats, against side impact and roll over; And triangular uppermost stair, front grille and rear overhang. reinforcement in the longitudinal inside of floor level. vehicle frame, According to experts, a bus should always meet With regards to the gangway and seat arrangement, also known as minimum standards which include: the width of the gangway recommended is 450 its chassis, is mm (for Class IV, above 40 passengers) and 350 A Roll the main supporting mm (for Class III, 26 – 40 structure of a motor vehicle, to which all other components are attached,comparable to the skeleton of an organism. Until the 1930s virtually every car had a structural frame, separate from its body. This construction design is known as body-on-frame. Over time, nearly all passenger cars have migrated to unibody construction, meaning their chassis and bodywork are integrated into one another. The seats on the bus are supposed to be secured on the chassis and not the body of the bus, Nearly all trucks, buses, and most pickups continue while the door is expected to be wide enough to allow to use a separate frame as their chassis. Kenyans for easy entry and exit. still remember the horror accident that occurred on the Kisumu-Muhoroni highway near Fort Tenan Body builders are assessed by organizations area in Kericho. In the accident, the roof of the bus accredited by the Kenya Accreditation Service. lay several meters away from the body of the bus, The authorities have repeatedly sounded an alarm another give-away sign about the quality of the metal over vehicle body builders producing used to attach the canopy to substandard bodies of PSVs the body of the bus. The without following the wreckage triggered standards set by KEBS. debate about the assembly standards. The new standards also require that After the Ntulele PSVs remove passengers). This requires a 3 by 2 seat arrangement accident, o v e r and a vehicle track width of 2250 mm or luggage racks protection; Front stakeholders on the roofs, correctly curved side pillars. in the public impact protection; have 400mm and side impact The side wall diagonal setting transport passenger seats, industry came protection. safety concept would involve safety belts and building a structural up with several safety equipment Roll over protection measures to strength against rattling, such as fire would include the cracks and bending reduce death extinguishers and use of gussets to during such which prevents share first aid kits. reinforce the strength force in an accident. accidents, the in between side walls main target being PSV body builders and the roof and The passenger material used to undergo strict vetting diagonals to prevent a door dimensions assemble buses. in a tripartite scheme passenger cabin from according to KEBS bringing together the It transpired that all collapsing sideward. is a minimum height National Transport and of 1650 mm with a metals inside the bus are Safety Authority, Kenya Front impact required to have smooth and minimum width of Bureau of Standards and the Kenya protection involves two 650 mm and not not sharp edges to prevent passengers from being Accreditation Service. options; on one hand the Centenary issue

above 700 mm and I pierced when an accident occurs. Also introduced use of a diagonal column are anti-rolling bars which are continuous rolling bars Those engaged in bus and coach body building must lastly, that the 1st to stabilize the roof through step has a maximum fitted inside the body of the vehicle so that in the demonstrate technical capacity in terms of registered directing the impulse force event of an accident it becomes very difficult for the engineers and technicians, and use proper materials height of 460 mm above into the lower body by making ground. Autonews Magazine Autonews canopy of the bus to collapse. in fabricating the bodies.

24 25 Road Safety Directory

The uppermost stair should not be protruding into which NTSA implements. gangway which reduces the dangerous interference. In relation to interference, the passenger seat should Compliance with KEBS regulations enhances survival have neither sharp corner nor protrusions, they should rates in the event of a crash. NTSA ensures that ISO 9001: 2015 be made out of round tubes and the width of the seat vehicle body builders adhere to the use of specified Certi ed frame be 400 mm per seat. materials failure of which leads to deregistration. The Front grille gets lost and almost always gets NTSA has also outlawed mounting of carriers on the locked and will endanger traffic. It should be fixed roof tops of public service vehicles. This is important to the bus body through the hinges. While the Rear to avoid instances where buses with load carriers on overhang should be a maximum of 60 % of the wheel top are prone to tipping over when overloaded. base measured behind rear axle to rear bumper With improved body building technology, lives will be to ensure comfortable vehicle handling therefore saved, there will be job creation and we won’t have to stability on the road. compromise design for safety for aesthetics only. However, there are regulations on vehicle body building that have been developed by KEBS in order Moses Anemba is the Managing Director, to address the challenge of making quality bus bodies Road Safety Directory

Corporate Membership

Benefits Empoees Unlimited 24hr Emergency Ambulance Services per year

www.roadsafetydirectory.com www.roadsafetydirectory.com www.roadsafetydirectory.com Access to the Toll free emergency medical number 1199 Treatment and stabilization on site Transfer to Hospital of choice Health Talks EDITION EDITION Conduct drills at discounted rates oe One free standby ambulance per year for a company event NTSA *per employee has also Family and Individual Membership outlawed RSD RSD RSD Benefits mounting Unlimited 24hr Emergency Ambulance Services per year er ear Treatment and stabilization on site *A family is defined as a couple and four children. The oad Saety irectory brings together industry players in an of carriers For families larger than 6 members, a membership effort to create awareness and provide useful information to stakeholders Transfer to the nearest Hospital of choice fee per person of Ksh. 1,000 shall apply and the general public towards curbing accidents and keeping our roads safe. on the roof tops of public AA Kenya Members Rates For free listing, advertising and participation in our next edition please contact us: service a) Air and Ground Emergency Evacuation Services → er Memer er ear vehicles. b) Ground Emergency Evacuation Services → er Memer er ear RSD *Terms & Conditions Apply Centenary issue

I EOME MEME ON epusoe Mob. +254 700 750509; +254 753 758700 | Email: [email protected] @EMS_Kenya Emergency Medical Services @EMS_Kenya

Autonews Magazine Autonews BE SAFE, OBEY TRAFFIC RULES www.eplus.co.ke Emergency Contact: 0700 395 395 / 0738395 395 26 AA Events

Three Sides to Safer Driving STOPPING | STABILITY | STEERING

Does it feel like you’re always driving over railroad tracks?

That "shake, rattle 'n' roll" is caused by worn shock absorbers.

AA Kenya hosts celebrations to mark 100 years of motoring excellence Shock absorbers are designed to greatly minimize the impact of bumps and vibrations when driving, when he Automobile Association of Kenya recently At the Auto Clinic, there were service providers from you notice them it means your shocks need replacing. hosted full day celebrations to culminate across the motoring industry to provide a fulfilling celebrations towards 100 years of excellent experience for our day’s customers. These partners T OUR SERVICES If all roads were perfectly flat, your car wouldn’t need service to motorists. There have been smaller events include E-plus ambulance service, Chloride Exide, and activities spread out across the year to build up General Assurance, Kingsway Tyres, Maxxis Tyres, Suspension Systems shock absorbers. Even subtle flaws in the road force pressure on the wheel causing it to move up and down. to the final celebrations. These events include Auto Subaru-Oriel, SBM Bank, among others. These service Authorised Subaru Service Centre Clinics, Safe Walk to School event (for school children) providers came and gave the much needed advisory Without shock absorbers your wheels would lose along with road safety drives and advocacy. services and motor checks. Vehicle Service - All Models contact with the road, momentarily, and slam back Computerised Wheel Alignment For the material day, AA Kenya had a multifaceted At the end of the day, AA Kenya hosted a colorful down again. approach towards marking the centenary celebrations: Members’ Dinner to mark centenary celebrations. Computerised Wheel Balancing a Motor show, an Auto Clinic, a Family Fun Day and a During this time, the Members Debit Card was Electronic Suspension Testing So apart from the comfort of driving and reducing the Members’ Dinner. launched through which members can now access Beam Setting magnitude of vibrations, shock absorbers stabilize you a host of services on cashless basis, courtesy of the car and increase safety. As an integral part of driving The Association hosted a motor show in which various debit card. Tyres Sales, Repairs and Fitting a safe car, have your shocks checked regularly. vehicles, both classic and new age, on display. Among Battery Sales them was the Riley 12/50 ‘B3’ and the Nissan GTR both from different divides of technology. The B3 is best The B3 is best Professional Car Wash remembered for pioneering the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa by road, a distance of 1,200km. The remembered for Association’s Founder, Lionel Douglas Galton Fenzi, pioneering the journey Oriel Locations in Kenya: undertook this mean mission in 1926, accompanied Centenary issue

I from Nairobi to by the very able Captain Gethin hacking their way Mombasa Road : 0722 570 300, 0733 241 291 Ojijo Rd, Parklands : 0722 716 221, 0733 627 130 through grasslands, shrubs, thorns, rocky terrain and Mombasa by road, a next to Subaru Kenya, opposite Vita Foam, Nairobi at the Kobil Petrol Station, near the Police Station wilderness. During the 100 years Celebration, the car distance of 1,200km. Ngong Road : 0706 272 039, 0731 244 555 Mombasa : 0713 026 982, 0732 912 696 was unveiled, and with most of its original parts still at Oilibya, next to Uchumi Hyper on Links Road, Nyali Autonews Magazine Autonews intact! The B3 won overall best car on display. 28 [email protected] | www.orielkenya.com orielkenya Roads with Patrick Omari Roads with Patrick Omari

ION FOR How deliberate CT RO F A A O D

E S

A

D

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A

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are we on Decade C Y E D of Action for 2 0 0 Road Safety? 1 1 - 2 0 2

Safer vehicle innovation and guidelines cover a wide area including; creating softer bumper to limit impact, he mantra that societies evolve from simple to safer road users, and post-crash response. use of safety belts, intuitive bonnets, low emission, complex is often erroneously scorned by some disability access, use of technology such as pedestrian Kenya has, in tandem with global partners, attempted in society especially those who look at it from detection, collision and parking sensors, Autonomous T to adopt and adapt to the push to reduce accidents Kenya’s the quasi-religious competition and debate on the Emergency Breaking System, airbags, accident by improving safety of vehicles on our roads. Some origins of man. Vehicles have developed from simple investigation, enhanced motor vehicle inspections of the notable efforts worth mentioning include NTSA to complex. But road traffic accidents still persist. among other measures. continued Strategic Plans, Draft Kenya Standard (Road Vehicles Sustainable Development Goals’ (SDG) target 3.6 - Passenger vehicle Body Construction) Specification There are few items that Kenya can confidently tick use of truck seeks to halve road traffic deaths and injuries by 2020 (DKS 372:2018), Bus Rapid Transit Systems (BRTs) off and say ‘done’. For example, Kenya’s continued and SDG target 11.2 includes a focus on providing safe, requirements, Banning of importation of vehicles use of truck chassis for matatu building is dangerous. chassis sustainable transport systems for all, improving road older than 8 years among other measures. We have seen BRT buses built on these same chassis safety and with special attention to key groups such completely compromising passenger access and Advanced economies have come up with both pre- for matatu as children and the vulnerable. The aspect of safer safety. Kenyans still celebrate bull bars and retrofitting, emptive and reactive yet measurable interventions vehicles is documented as Pillar III. The objective of this accident investigations are still rudimentary, the to advance manufacturing of safer vehicles. The building is pillar is to encourage deployment of improved vehicle country still import compromised tyres and back street standards adopted by these countries are pace safety norms and technologies for both passive and regrooving of worn tyres. Kenya imports 8-year-old setting and have proved effective although deaths dangerous. Centenary issue active safety. vehicles so the country is often behind when it comes I continue to escalate due to a multiplicity of dependent to enjoying intelligent vehicle technologies. It is also noteworthy to point out that the agreed factors. This has especially been seen in Japan, the targets are also in line with the 2011–2020 Decade of EU (through EuroNCAP Safety Scoring program) and Looking at how Kenya has performed, there is still Patrick Omari is an Action for Road Safety and its five pillars - road safety the UN through the World Forum efforts under the a lot yet to be done. Some critical issues have been IT & Transport Consultant Autonews Magazine Autonews management, safer roads and mobility, safer vehicles, WP29-GTR No.9 resolution. adopted but executed poorly leading to loss of life. 30 31 Safety Tips Safety Tips 4. Be on high alert for traffic lights mishaps Before entering an intersection with traffic lights, take a few seconds after the green light comes on. Vehicles and pedestrians can suddenly appear almost out of nowhere, so exercise a lot of caution when pulling into a busy intersection. Look both ways and be sure no one is trying to speed through or to jump the lights. Truck drivers have a large blind spot on their left-hand side, so be especially careful when driving next to a large truck. If you cannot see the truck’s side mirrors, the truck driver cannot see you. Be aware of blind spots, including those in rear view mirrors and behind windscreen pillars or highway road signs. 5. Reduce distractions while driving Your eyes should be trained on the road at all times. Always concentrate on the area where you will be driving through in 10-12 seconds. You should have at least one hand on the steering wheel at all times. Reduce in-car distractions such as checking cell phones, changing radio stations or music CDs, eating, looking at the back of the car or momentarily taking hand off the wheel and eyes off the road. A small mishap like a hitting a pothole at top speed, a gust of wind, or a tyre burst could momentarily wrestle control from the driver and if it happens when your eyes are off the road, hands off the wheel, then chances of regaining control are very slim. Safety Tips 6. Watch out for children and animals Ensure you are in tip top shape Children have been classified as the most vulnerable 2. road users. They are small and harder to spot from Simple ways to Apart from fatigue, drug influence has been ranked afar. They also have poor judgement on distance and highest as the causative agent when it comes to sometimes get confused on busy roads. Children and MAINTAIN SAFETY accidents caused by human error. Our highs mental animals therefore have a habit of suddenly popping alertness shortens reaction time considerably while out from between parked cars and into roadways. inebriation of any kind works against us by hampering If you are driving through a residential area, slow on the road while Driving our judgement and, directly, our response time. This down and be on the lookout for crossing children and sometimes forms the difference between life and animals. Pedestrians, especially in rural areas are also 7 death. Ensure you get enough rest before starting wont to cross the road suddenly. It is also therefore a journey. Should you feel really tired while driving, important to slow down when approaching a trade e are officially in holiday season and As we plan to travel upcountry make a stop to rest and freshen up before resuming centre or a busy town. movement, especially across the country, or to the coast to enjoy Christmas your journey. Do not drive while under the influence of Whas been heightened. Whether you are on break, we should ensure we belt alcohol or heavy drugs. Apart from interfering with our Obey all road signs and maintain safe driving the road alone or are carrying passengers, safety is up always, regardless of sitting judgement, they bring with them a general feeling of 7. paramount. You are obligated to ensure you drive position, speed or distance of travel. drowsiness which can overwhelm the driver, causing Road signs are there to maintain sanity on the roads safely and protect not only yourself but other road them to sleep on the wheel. This is a direct ticket to by influencing organised movement, maintaining users from a possible accident. collisions, which may turn out fatal. safety through cautionary signs and provide guidance on better (or safer routes) especially in the event of A general study across the world has fronted seatbelt Perform vehicle maintenance regularly Maintain sensible vehicle speed use or lack thereof as one of the leading causes of 1. 3. roadworks. Always maintain respectable distance traffic injuries and fatalities. As we plan to travel (three-second cushion) between you and the next A well-maintained vehicle will save you random Maintain safe speed especially when joining the road, upcountry or to the coast to enjoy Christmas break, car to allow you response distance in case of an problems like stalled engine, tyre burst, wheel approaching a junction, approaching a crossroads/ we should ensure we belt up always, regardless of emergency. As tempting as it may be when in a hurry, misalignment, slow punctures, engine overheating. intersection or a zebra crossing. The same applies tailgating is a major cause of accidents. Be courteous

Centenary issue sitting position, speed or distance of travel.

I Apart from the regular vehicle service, ensure you for when driving through a busy shopping centre or to other drivers, remembering to allow whoever has have a full vehicle check especially before long travel. approaching a school or busy crossing area. A safe Our safety experts also brought forth a few safety tips right of way over you. to abide by to ensure safe travelling and that we all Such a check would detect a problem and fix it way speed allows for one to react quickly at a moment’s arrive alive: before it becomes a catastrophe. notice as opposed to top speed which could result in Keep LEFT unless overtaking Autonews Magazine Autonews skidding or rolling if brakes are employed suddenly.

32 33 AA at 100

Bob Dewar: The journey of Concours D’Elegance

ver wondered where Kenya With the expanding road network, the Concours event in Pebble was before the onset of there came need for more drivers Beach, California. 12 Alfa Romeos Evehicles and roads? It was and thus training/ driver instruction were on display at the first once described as jungle country, began. In a bid to diversify its exhibition at The Spread Eagle impenetrable before work on the services around this time, the Hotel off Thika Road — the current Kenya – Uganda railway in 1896 – Association started operating a location for the Safari Park Hotel. 1900. In the early 1900s, transport driving school in 1962. They started To mark its 10th anniversary as a in Kenya was mostly by foot, with a single Ford Anglia. The idea club in 1981, the Club decided to do train or ox – drawn carts. Around was introduced by the late M.A.S something bigger in celebration. then, Lionel Douglas Galton Fenzi Northcorte and other former Peter Hughes was the then head started seeking loans from car British army men. Respected for its of the Competition Department manufacturers abroad to test their strictness, in depth curriculum and at the Automobile Association of suitability for the African terrain. commitment to responsible driving Kenya (AA) and he threw himself During this time, the Riley Motor AA has become one of the most at the forefront of managing the Car Company Limited in Coventry, favoured driving schools on the event. The event was opened to Britain, donated a Riley 12/50 ‘B3’ continent. all makes of cars and moved to vehicle and it ended up being After the dust from the Second the Embakasi motor racing circuit suitable for the task at hand. World War settled, more vehicles (current Container Depot). At the With Captain Gethin for (valuable) were brought into the country time, Embakasi assumed status OUR PRODUCTS & SERVICES: company, Galton Fenzi pioneered and the transport sector started as a recreational area for Nairobi the Nairobi – Mombasa journey growing. Around then, in 1970, and had several sports fields. The by road in the B3, a journey that as the public relations overseer boundary around these fields was totalled 1,200 km. The Riley 12/50 for Alpha Romeo, Bob Dewar a race track with a grid and a pit Centenary issue

I ∫ ALIGNMENT ∫ BRAKEPADS ∫ WIPER BLADES confirmed the viability of the convinced the company to set up area where the judging line could African terrain for foreign made an Owners Club. They obliged him. assess the entries. cars, hence more and more cars To mark its first anniversary as a The event had new goals - to ∫ BALANCING ∫ BATTERIES ∫ WINDSCREENS found their way into East Africa at club of 20 Alfa Romeo lovers, Bob present motor sport as a Autonews Magazine Autonews the time. suggested an exhibition similar to responsible group, looking after www.maxxis.co.ke34 | 0700 60 60 60 35 AA at 100 AA at 100 being machinery and So how has the being conscious of road event shaped safety and standards – Kenya’s growth? as stressed by Hughes. To answer the first Alfa Romeo didn’t expect explorers’ description much in way of exhibitors of Kenya, Bob says, and spectators, but “Kenya is more than they got 25 entries beach and bush.” The and more than Kenya Tourism Board 1,000 spectators, a in balancing that very encouraging statement further, moment! has helped foster the By 1989, the links with Uganda. Concours had In 2011, Bob and his opened up to Concours team helped motorcycles which to establish a similar brought so much magic event in Uganda. The to the show, according event is now held every to Bob Dewar. That year, they stumbled year and several Kenyans registered 50 entries. Iaround then, upon information drive or ride there to take part in the Kenya Motor Sports Federation on the Classic Car sitting the competition. This is of course was established and took over and Motorcycle Club allowances and a kick in the right direction for can only be given in the workshops. have also allowed other exhibitors AA Kenya’s role at the Concours. run by the British no bench-marking regional integration. From this need, the Concours has in the industry to take up space on Vic Preston Senior, a Safari Rally Airways employees. trips. monetary created employment opportunities the event day, building interaction Each year, Kenya’s Concours legend, took up this role. He impressed upon the rewards. indirectly for a good number of for attendants. receives around 28 entries company to seize the individuals. A few years in, Embakasi was For 18 years, Concours The event has also grown from opportunity to advertise from other countries. After the converted into a commercial was sponsored by Car and The Alfa Romeo Owners Club has just being an exhibition to a larger its world cargo operations by competition, these visitors mostly space, and the Concours family General. Other sponsors include, also inspired the growth of several social event where we bring airfreighting a member’s car to stay a while to enjoy what Kenya faced a dilemma. Preston fronted Airtel, Schweppes (Coca-Cola), other car club over time including together individuals of all walks of the Kenya Concours. The company has to offer in way of tourist the Ngong Racecourse to Bob Access Kenya, Galleria Mall, Jubilee Volkswagen, Mercedes, Subaru, life to together for a day of fun. flew over a motorcycle instead attractions, which directly earns as a suitable venue. When Bob Insurance and CBA Bank, all of Mark X and BMW. These clubs and it went on to take first place the country revenue. This also Did you know the Concours also sat down with the Jockey Club who value Concours as a social forge a new socio-cultural identity in the bike category at the 1999 opens up the country to foreign runs an auction? Your vehicle may he quickly realised they were event and a tourist attraction. The away from our old markers of race Concours. direct investment. not fetch you as much here but not very receptive to his request. event is in fact now dubbed the and tribe. They regularly go on There is also an entire cottage with the right care you could sell it They offred the grounds in very In 2016, Eng Peter Wanday was CBA Concours d’elegance as CBA road trips and stage charity drives industry of mechanics, jua kali off at a hefty price in the overseas unfriendly months for outdoors elected chairman of the Alfa Romeo are now its chief sponsors. Bob across the country. welders, interior designers and markets. events April (heavy rain season) or Owners Club. Bob Dewar remains Dewar Publicity is still doing the refurbishers, and spray-painters What is the future for the July (cold and heavily cloudy). Bob as vice-chair on that six-member most organising this event that has We can only see bigger greater that has grown from the keen work Concours d’elegance? picked July. The concours that year committee. These positions are gained the respect of the world. things coming through for the of maintenance and restoration at Ngong Racecourse attracted purely on voluntary basis as there We have seen the franchise grow Concours going forward. Autonews that is required for a classic car. 3,000 spectators! The venue are no and embrace not only cars but Magazine will definitely be at hand Most classic cars are acquired in wound up being very practical, motorcycles as well. The event to keep you abreast of the dire condition. Some, due to their complete with the stands where organisers developments. advanced age require spectators could sit and watch regular tender the parade of cars, and a loving care track where a judging which ramp could be erected. In 1998 the Concours received a special guest. Roger Pierce, the then head of Motor Sports in South Africa, attended the show. He was so impressed that the following year, he organised a team of Centenary issue

car enthusiasts, the I African Odyssey, to drive to the event all the way from Johannesburg. Still Autonews Magazine Autonews in 1998, Bob also 36 37 Motor News

What causes degradation in What affects EV battery Electric Vehicles (EV) batteries? health? When pitted against the Nissan Leaf’s air-cooled batteries, Tesla’s liquid-cooled versions were seen to perform better, hen they suggesting thermal management as a key were first differentiator for carmakers. Surprisingly, Wlet out heavy use (and therefore frequent into the market, charging) did not meaningfully accelerate nobody thought the speed of degeneration for the EV electric vehicle battery degradation. (EV) batteries However, heat and direct current seems to would really last long be a major player in battery degradation. before requiring charging Batteries were noted to lose their capacity or, worse, replacement. faster in warm climates. Fast-charging However, the EV batteries’ the battery using direct current also resilience has come as a surprise. Every works against the EV battery compared year, electric car batteries get weaker, a fact that to slower Level 1 or 2 charging by use of has caused researchers to try and figure out ways to get alternating current at 120 and 240 volts). the most out of these battery. The tests showed that the two factors On average, EV batteries degenerate by about 2.3% per worked together to cause faster battery year. Geotab, a telematics company suggests that at that degradation of about 10% of the original rate, most batteries will likely outlast the useable life of capacity after six years. their vehicles. Overall, Geotab recommended keeping A Tesla rental service in Southern California, Tesla has EVs charged between 20% to 80%, cutting driven its vehicles well beyond 300,000 miles, with no down or overall cutting out fast charging, plans to remove them from service. The battery range and avoiding areas with extremely high temperatures if possible, as the most ideal Centenary issue for a Model X, for example, reduced by 23% from after

I covering 330,000 miles way to extend the capacity of any EV battery. More research will of course be put in to get a more detailed understanding of EV battery degradation. Autonews Magazine Autonews

38 39 Motoring Hacks Motoring Hacks

How to ensure your brakes give you Maximum Output on the road BRAKES

ur vehicle chassis is created Have your brakes and brake pads checked once per year. If they are to hold us down in case of 1.worn out and unlikely to work properly, have them replaced. Brakes inspection and repair Oan accident, but did you know there exist mechanisms Have your brake fluid checked regularly. Brake fluid works by Brakes should be regularly movement and fluid leaks, and the predestined to prevent a crash by 2.transferring heat to all parts of the brake system and absorbing inspected and repaired in case of level and condition of the brake bringing your car to an immediate water. If your vehicle’s brake fluid is dark in colour then it needs flushing. any fault. It is recommended that fluid checked too. A proper check your brake system be inspected also inspects for proper routing halt? When all other manoeuvres While you drive, listen and watch for warning signs. These may with each oil change or at minimum and placement of the brake and fail, your vehicle’s brakes are the come in the form of unusual noises, abnormal brake response, or 3. every 6 months. The best way antilock brake sensors. last port of call towards preventing a weird feeling/ some form of resistance when you apply the brakes. a possible crash. to inspect brakes is to let your All these tell-tale signs may be indicative of a serious problem and may A regular check prevents some mechanic test drive your vehicle to require urgent attention. problems which may prove see how the brakes handle. The braking system of hazardous if prolonged. Brake fluid, While driving, always try coasting to slow the vehicledown before They can also perform an actual for example, can get contaminated any vehicle is by far applying brakes whenever possible. This will serve to preserve 4. visual inspection which involves: over time with absorption of your car’s brakes by putting less pressure on them. the most important measuring pad and shoe thickness, moisture and copper, decreasing safety system on the Maintain space/ distance between you and the car ahead to allow checking for even wear of the pads the effectiveness of the hydraulics 5.for ample braking distance. Frequent use of emergency brakes or and shoes, checking rotors for within your brake system causing a machine. sudden brakes puts unnecessary strain on your braking system. When run out and hot spots, checking less responsive brake pedal to the you have adequate braking distance you will be able to coast well and hardware to make sure it is working touch or feel, therefore causing a

Centenary issue It thus follows that proper use and

I slow down before finally applying your brakes slowly. care is maintained to keep the properly and that it is adjusted slight delay or reduction in braking brakes in optimal condition. Here Ensure you purchase good, reliable brakes. They may come at a properly. Check for leaks from the power. Any faults found with our are a few hacks you can use to 6.little extra cost, but they will make save you a lot of money and wheel cylinders, brake lines and braking system should be repaired ensure your brakes are always in time spent with frequent repairs or replacement. They are also of brake master cylinder. The callipers at the shortest opportune time to Autonews Magazine Autonews their best form: guaranteed quality hence safer. should be inspected for wear, free maintain safety on the road. 40 41 Motoring Hacks sports car you might not worry in the slightest about having to buy What tyres are expensive tyres to keep this car up to scratch. On the other hand, if you need a 4x4 to get through farmland, or sludgy mud-strewn roads to right for your car? -a- 0719 080 000 get to your farming errands, you dial By Rodgers Bunduki should appreciate when you buy BATTERY 020 4008000 the car that the tyres are going to hoosing new tyres for your Different kinds of vehicles come be expensive to maintain. car can be a complete with different tyres. Whether hectic experience if you’ve Standard Utility Vehicles, trucks, C When should I replace my never done it before. When you’re saloon cars and sports cars, etc, considering which tyres you need each vehicle comes with tyres tyres? to get, you need to consider factors specific to its purpose. These tyres When your tyre treads are worn, such as performance, price, brand, are great for a variety of conditions, your car may respond poorly in Conenience comfort, appearance and safety. and they last for differing lengths of adverse weather conditions like time and will cost varying amounts rain and mud. With good treads, of money to replace. your car will grip the road better. How do you know which tyres Also, having insufficient tread is You can change the tyres on your are the ‘right’ ones for your car? considered illegal. And finally, worn vehicle to another type, but you treads can make other parts of Deliered If you bought a new car, it’s a safe really do need to do your research your car wear prematurely. bet that you can just replace the first and make sure that the new Our Dial-A-Battery service takes the hassle out of buying old tyres with the same type that type is suitable for the vehicle you ‘Bald’ tyres will also mean your car a battery. Instead of you finding us, we’ll deliver the the car came with. However if the wish to fit them to. fails its inspection test. car was used when you bought it, Where you live can affect your tyre Tyres are made with tread wear battery right to your doorstep. Now that’s convenience. you can’t be sure that the previous choice. Conditions such as frequent indicators in the grooves along the owner had chosen the right type of rain, potholes or extreme heat can tread to help drivers see when their tyres on the vehicle you purchased. all affect the type of tyre that you tyres are nearing the legal limit. If you are buying a used car, it’s need to use. Although the legal limit is 1.6mm, a good idea to do your research most motor safety experts suggest Different tyre types vary hugely and make sure that the car you are that the tyres should be replaced in function as well as price. High buying has the correct tyres fitted. when the tread depth reaches performance tyres are usually If not, replacing them all with the 3mm as it is recognised across the quite expensive and wear out more right type once you own the car country that the current legal limit quickly, so are not necessarily would be a good idea. isn’t really sufficient to protect worth the extra cash - it depends on drivers caught up in adverse driving your priorities. There are all season conditions. tyres, performance all season tyres, ultra-high performance tyres and tyres made especially for 4x4’s to Should I Get a Professional name but a few. If you drive Opinion? a high-performance Of course if you’re not confident about your choices, or you’re not sure about which tyres to get for your car, speak to a professional. That’s what they’re there for, and if you go to a reputable company, they will be able to point you in the right direction. Finally, always refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for all tyre pressure specifications and other related information. Never forget that four tyres are the most important components between you and the Centenary issue road. If you suspect any damage to I ree Deliery ree nsallaion Conenien ayen ions the tyres - consult a tyre expert! E K K Autonews Magazine Autonews

42 AA Junior Membership

AA Kenya joins Forester Nation in charity road safety drive

he Automobile Association of Kenya joined Subaru Kenya/ Oriel along with AA Kenya also hands with the Forester Nation to do a charityrun conducted car checks to prepare thevehicles for the Tin Mombasa. The purpose of the run was to long drive to Mombasa. support Shanzu Good Hope Children’shome. The entourage to Mombasa had the following Founded in 2015, Forester nation comprises Subaru participants: 40 Cars from Nairobi-Subaru Foresters; Forester with around 200 members spread across the 20 Cars from Forester Nation Tanzania and 15 country. As part of their objectives, they do one major Motor Bikes from Nairobi- (Piki Dada, Women Bike charity event per quarter per region of the country Association and Motorcycle Kenya). with this particular drive taking them all the way AA staff from Mombasa Business Centre were at to Shanzu. The event was supported by AA Kenya, hand to make the event a success, and they not only Subaru Kenya, Tusky Supermarket and Pwani Oil. washed the children’s clothes and cooked for them, AA Kenya supported the drive in both cash and kind. they also sat down to eat with them. Apart from donating money to purchase some of the Centenary issue

foodstuffs, AA Kenya also donated a tow truck to I transport the donations and took 40 Forester Nation drivers through Defensive Driving course. Autonews Magazine Autonews

44 45 Safety Tips Safety Tips

Central Nanyuki - Isiolo Junction Nyeri – Nyahururu Wiyumiririe Area Blackspots Kiganjo-Naro Moru Road Kibirigwi-Sagana in Kenya Thika Blue Post - Sagana Bridge Limuru-Uplands Kiriaini-Murang’a Road Rift Valley n December 2017, a truck driver trying to escape the National Transport Safety Authority (NTSA) Kinungi – Naivasha – Gilgil Toll Station Western region net rammed into a number of vehicles at top Nakuru – Eldoret highway – Kibunja I Mbale-Vihiga Road section speed. The result was a freak accident involving a Maili Mbili – Naivasha record 13 vehicles and claiming 30 lives. Kakamega-Chavakali Road Njoro Road Junction The World Health Organization (WHO) stats Kakamega – Makunga – Mumias estimate 3 000 to 13 000 as the total number of Makutano Junction – Eldama Ravine Kenyans that die in road accidents every year. Kakamega – Lubao – Webuye Gilgil - Mbaruk Road Section A majority of these people are vulnerable road Kambi Ya Mwanza users who include pedestrians, motorcyclists, and Molo G.S.U Camp – Salgaa cyclists. Of these, children are believed to be most Ejinja Corner Salgaa – A.D.C. Farm Section affected, as they are small and hard to see from Matayos afar and also lack right judgement of distance. Timboroa – Burnt Forest Section There have always been different myths and Chepsir – Kipkelion Junction explanations as to why accidents occur time and Kericho – Litein Road Section Nyanza again at almost the same place, but this too has a practical reason, most of the time. ended up Kericho – Kaitui Section Awasi - Ahero Road being called blackspots, a fact attributed to their Endebes - Eldoret Road Section Kiboswa - Kisumu Road consistency in being spots for accidents time and Approach these places with caution, Gilgil - Nakuru Road Kasambara Area Daraja Mbili - Bondo Junction again. whether driving, cycling or walking. According to a 2018 report by the Northern Ngata Bridge - Sobea Oyugis - Katitu Road Assume every other road user cannot Corridor and NTSA’s Nairobi County Route Hazard Migori - Kakrao Road Mapping, the number of black spots in the country see you and be a safe road user from has gone up. The number now is at a whopping Gucha Bridge 273 as compared to 166 as recorded in 2013. North Eastern region the decisions you will make on the road. Migori Township Of these, at least 199 are spaced out along the Garissa Madogo - KBC Station Northern Corridor which stretches from Mombasa Ogembo - Nyanguso Road to Malaba, a distance 930 kilometres long. Places Modogashe – Habaswein Kisii Township Main Road like Mau Summit, Salgaa and Busia are within this Ukasi – Bangale stretch. Mwembe Area - Kisii Town Bangale - Hola Road Junction In the financial year 2017/2018, the Northern Kisii - Daraja Mbili Corridor claimed 22% of all the fatalities Buna – Gurar on Kenyan roads. Of these, pedestrians and passengers made the highest number Coast region of victims. Nairobi Tsavo-Maungu - Voi section Kasarani G.S.U Stretch WARNING! Wundanyi – Mwatate Westlands Museum Hill Interchange Maungu - Tsavo East Gate Road Westlands Kabete Road Maktau - Taveta Road Mombasa Road around Airtel Hqrs Mazeras - Miritini Road Centenary issue

Jogoo Road Near Maziwa Stage I Kilifi - Vipingo Road Waiyaki Way Near Kangemi Fly Over Kibarani – Changamwe – Makande Autonews Magazine Autonews

46 47 Motoring Hacks Motoring Hacks

Registering on TIMS

Follow the following steps on how to register on TIMS to create an account on the Transport Information How to get the new Management System (TIMS) website by National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA): .Open your browser and direct it to tims.ntsa.go.ke .Input the code you receive on your phone in NTSA Smart Driving Licence 1 10the verification tab to complete the verification .On this page you will be presented with three process. By Kelly Simba 2options: If you are visiting NTSA portal for the first time? Here’s .You are now registered on the TIMS platform. he National Transport and Safety Board (NTSA) A key feature how to register on TIMS: 11 started rolling out the new generation smart .Click on the Register an Account link will direct of the card .Head back to the home page tims.ntsa.go.ke driving licenses in April 2018. The new NTSA smart you to the eRegister An Account page. It is from T 3 and Sign In. digital driving licenses look almost like the National ID is the points this page that Individuals, Dealers, Agents, Financial 12 and contain personal data including your Blood Group. Institutions and Companies register on the platform. The digital license will have a secure computer chip system that containing the driver’s information, which will only be .Click on the Individuals option. .Once you have changed your password, click on readable through special electronic gadgets which are sees points 4 13the “driving license” menu and select “Apply for owned and will be managed by NTSA officials. smart DL”. deducted .You will be prompted to input your ID Serial No. A key feature of the card is the points system that sees 5Be careful not to input your ID Number as what is .You will be charged KES 3,050 and once you points deducted for every traffic offence committed. for every required is the Serial Number. If your have replaced have completed the payment and it is processed, The technology will encourage good driving habits your ID within the last two years you will have to use 14 traffic offence you will book an appointment with the NTSA and reduce the cost of motor vehicle insurance. your old ID Card’s serial number. committed. .Add your KRA PIN Number. Currently, NTSA is in talks with insurance companies 6 .At the NTSA offices, your details will be to facilitate a new premium pricing model that will confirmed and a passport photo of you be taken. partially rely on smart driving licenses to enable them .Add your Mother’s Maiden Name. 15 to reward good drivers with lower premiums and raise 7 those of bad drivers. Centenary issue

.After you have registered, your digital driving I Other penalties include on-the-spot fines and / .Add your Occupation and Phone Number. license will be ready for collection in 5 working NTSA will have a centralized database profiling driver or attending mandatory refresher driving classes. 16 8 days. behaviour where repeat offenders will lose points to NTSA Director-General Francis Meja revealed that an extent of having their driving licenses suspended transactions for instant fines would be cashless in a .Request a verification code by clicking on the Autonews Magazine Autonews temporarily or confiscated for good. bid to tame corruption. 9button next to the phone number. 48 49 Motor News

AA FLEET MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

Fleet Management Solutions Real time tracking and monitoring Basic Tracking Solution Customized statistical reports Real time tracking and monitoring Service reminder alerts Stolen vehicle recovery Stolen vehicle recovery Driver behavior

Fuel Management Solutions Real time tracking and monitoring Fuel consumption per kilometer TOYOTA, TESLA Fuel drops and expected lling time alerts Drawing Car Safety Inspiration Fuel dispensed into the tank from Self-Drive concept in latest models.

he concept of self-driving cars may still be in the oven, Tbut scraps of the concept are already being input in latest models of cars as efforts to increase vehicle safety take shape.

Generator Monitoring Self-driving cars are made to Vehicle Accessories prevent collision accidents by Real-time engine monitoring eliminating possible human error Tinting, Car Alarms, Gear locks, Wheel Locks, through the Advanced Driver The feature, which Fuel theft detection uses visual or audible signals Expanders, Speakers among others Assistance Systems (ADAS). ADAS Service reminder alerts includes features that can alert to alert drivers about vehicles that Important to note is that both drivers to vehicles or pedestrians are outside of their immediate field Toyota and Tesla are infusing around them, keep vehicles from of vision, was the most effective For enquiries, Contact Us ADAS technology and making drifting out of their lane, and ADAS feature, as 60% said it had it a standard requirement for all automatically apply the brakes to helped prevent a crash. their 2019 models going forward. prevent or reduce the impact of The respondents also appreciated In addition, twenty automakers a collision. According to surveys, the rear cross-traffic warning and have promised to make automatic at least one ADAS feature had rear automatic emergency braking, emergency braking a standard prevented a collision for their which alert drivers to vehicles feature on their vehicles by 2022, vehicle. and pedestrians behind them and much as they haven’t included it The blind-spot warning feature automatically apply the brakes to as a standard feature on any of was a favourite for most survey avoid collisions, hence preventing their 2019 model-year vehicles, a crash. KENYA AUTOMOTIVE SECURITY ASSOCIATION respondents. according to Consumer Reports.

Automobile Association of Kenya 51 Motor News

Uganda and Rwanda Lead East Africa in Switch to Electric Vehicles

ganda and Rwanda are miles ahead of their infrastructure as they require frequent charging. East African counterparts in embracing the Absence of practical incentives like subsidised prices Uelectric vehicle (EV) technology. Electric vehicle and lower taxes also have been brought forward as assembly plants have now taken root in Kigali and some of the reasons for lower EV uptake. Kampala, placing a stamp on the viability of the Whereas Kenya has EVs as hail cabs in Nopia Ride industry. with 5 charging stations in three locations, Tanzania Uganda’s Kiira Motors Corporation, a state-owned government approved initial rollout of electric vehicles entity, has already output two battery-powered cars in 2018 in a bid to lower gas emissions across the and a solar electric bus. Kiira Motors partnered with country. The vehicles operate within the Serengeti Chinese Equipment Manufacturer, Motor Co. Ltd. and national park and the Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Club employed its home-grown green mobility technologies takes first place in being the first tour company in to build the Kayoola Electric Vehicle Series (EVS). The Tanzania to have 100 per cent electric safari vehicles buses can go for 300km under a single charge and in East Africa. have a capacity of 90 passengers (49 sitting and 41 In Ethiopia, Tom Renewable Electric Bike Assembly standing). Its diesel engine compatriots only have a & Sales, the local EV assembler plans to commence seating capacity of 65 passengers. production of EVs that move at 40km/h in the country. In Rwanda, German automaker Volkswagen These vehicles will go 60km on full charge and will commenced assembly of electric vehicles in Kigali be charged using standard 220v electric outlets. in October 2019. For power ports, Siemens, German Japanese Firm Mitsui and Co. plans to establish an power equipment firm, plans to set up 15 charging assembly plant in Ethiopia after a successful trial for a stations in the Rwandan capital. Apart from EVs, three-wheels electric car in Addis Ababa in April 2019. Ampersand, a local Rwandan firm, started selling The electric vehicle dubbed ‘E-trike’ is fitted with five electric bikes powered by batteries that can last for dedicated batteries, each with a capacity to go 80 Centenary issue

I about 75km of riding. kms with a single charge. PUNCTURES POT HOLES CUTS Despite these great strides forward, uptake of Autonews will remain at hand to give you the latest on EVs in East Africa remains extremely low. This has this matter as it develops.

Autonews Magazine Autonews been attributed to lack of investment in charging

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