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