AUTO24 Rwanda, a renowned dealership in the region, has introduced Tesla vehicles to the Rwandan market. This initiative follows a promotional effort by the dealership in late 2023, which aimed to persuade consumers to exchange their conventional gas-powered cars for modern electric models, facilitating a seamless shift towards electric transportation. The unveiling of the inaugural two Tesla Model Y cars took place on Friday, March 22.
Ivan Ruzibiza, the Country Manager for AUTO24 Rwanda, has expressed the company’s commitment to embracing e-mobility, highlighting its significance as the future of transportation. He also emphasized the efforts made by the government to encourage electric vehicle usage and to attract investments in this sector.
Ruzibiza stated, “Introduced in 2019, the Tesla Model Y quickly gained celebrity status in electric vehicles.
It impresses with its extensive driving range, affordability, and spacious interiors, which easily fit five passengers and can expand to seven with extra configurations. Additionally, it is equipped with many features, securing its position as a favorite among electric vehicle enthusiasts around the globe.
The swift depletion of our initial inventory simply highlights its widespread acceptance. I remain confident in its ability to similarly win over the hearts of consumers in Rwanda with its unique features.”
In 2023, Tesla achieved a monumental milestone by shipping 1.2 million units of its Model Y, establishing a new record for the highest-selling vehicle globally within that year. This feat enabled the Model Y to surpass the Toyota Corolla, signifying the first instance an electric vehicle has achieved such a rank.
From its inception, the Model Y has witnessed deliveries exceeding 2.16 million units, cementing its status as one of the most coveted electric vehicles.
These vehicles offer numerous benefits, including efficient energy use, lower maintenance costs, an enhanced driving experience, and remarkable performance. Unlike traditional vehicles that require frequent refueling, EV batteries are known for their long-lasting durability. Moreover, internal combustion engines need more frequent maintenance than EVs. As he pointed out, choosing a Tesla or a similar electric vehicle contributes to creating a more sustainable environment and increases the nation’s carbon credit value.
Ruzibiza welcomed anyone interested in any Tesla model to visit their offices. “We’re excited to provide tours and arrange test drives upon request,” he said.
Our commitment is to offer a wide selection of 100-150 electric vehicle (EV) models that cater to the preferences and financial plans of the Rwandan populace. It’s crucial for the private sector to invest in the development of charging infrastructure to accommodate the accelerating move towards EVs.
The urgent demand for rapid charging facilities across Rwanda underscores the importance of initiating this transition.
Ernest Bugingo, the Automotive Commercial Director at AUTO24 Rwanda, emphasized the rapid global transition to electric vehicles, highlighting the Tesla Model Y as a leading example. This shift, he noted, is driven by environmental concerns and technological advancements.
He stressed the importance of changing views on brand-new and luxury cars, arguing that such vehicles are accessible to all, not just confined to certain countries. Reflecting on Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s forecast, Bugingo pointed out that the Model Y is expected to surpass the combined sales of the Tesla Models S, X, and 3, marking it as a groundbreaking introduction to the market.
“With around 75% of its parts shared with the Model 3, the Tesla Model Y provides a comparable driving experience and interior amenities, yet comes in an SUV format. This makes it attractive to a broader audience,” he remarked.
The 2024 Tesla Model Y Long Range, available at AUTO24 Rwanda, is tagged at US$60k or RWF 80M. This price may fluctuate based on customer-specific enhancements or additional features.
Standard features of the Model Y include LED front and rear lighting and a 15-inch touchscreen that supports FM/DAB radio, satellite navigation, Bluetooth, and voice commands.
The interior exudes luxury with seats upholstered in synthetic leather, 12-way power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. Other conveniences include a motorized tailgate, a panoramic sunroof with tinting, two wireless charging pads for mobile devices, and a rich-sounding 13-speaker audio setup.
A 78.1Kwh battery powers the vehicle, allowing it to travel up to 660km on a single charge. It accelerates from 0 to 97km/h in a mere 4.8 seconds. For safety, the Model Y includes several high-tech features such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, assists for lane-keeping and lane-centering, and cameras for monitoring blind spots, among others.
About Africar Group
RwandaAUTO24 is a key player under AUTO24.AFRICA banner, a prominent pan-African organization that sources, refurbishes and sells brand-new and second-hand vehicles.
Initially launched in the Ivory Coast in 2022, AUTO24.AFRICA has successfully expanded its operations to include Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa, with ambitious plans to increase its reach to another 15-20 countries by 2028.
Owned by the Australian-based Africar Group, RwandaAUTO24 benefits from strong backing from STELLANTIS, the world’s third-largest automaker by revenue.
The brand boasts a showroom and sales center at Joe House, KN 7 Rd, Muhima Sector, in the Nyarugenge District. RwandaAUTO24 also maintains an office within the Norrsken Kigali House. For further details, their official website is https://auto24.rw/.
