Electrogenic, the UK-based EV conversion specialist, has completed its first African deployment after converting a fleet of Land Rover Defenders to fully electric power at Sarara, a remote safari lodge in Kenya’s Matthews Range. The installation expands the company’s presence to a fourth continent and showcases the use of solar-charged EV technology in off-grid environments.
Sarara operates within the 850,000-acre Namunyak Conservancy, where roads routinely become impassable during Kenya’s rainy season. The lodge previously faced closures when diesel deliveries could not reach the site. The electrified Defenders—powered entirely by on-site solar infrastructure—enabled uninterrupted operations through the 2024–2025 wet season. The vehicles also provide 240V AC power through vehicle-to-load capability, reducing dependence on diesel generators.
See also: Electrogenic Expands EV Conversion Network to New Zealand and Adds UK Partners
Electrogenic supplied three “drop-in” conversion kits: two E62 kits with 62 kWh batteries and one E93 kit with 93 kWh capacity. Off-road range varies from more than 160 miles for the E62-equipped vehicles to over 200 miles for the E93 variant. All vehicles retain the Defender’s original transfer box, permanent four-wheel drive and high/low range functionality. The company said the kits offer improved traction due to instant torque and configurable regenerative braking. Kits were installed on-site in two weeks, with pre-terminated wiring enabling mechanics to complete conversions without specialist EV training.
Sarara’s mechanical team has now been certified as an official Electrogenic installer for Kenya, positioning the lodge to support further regional conversions. “The converted vehicles also function as mobile power sources,” Electrogenic noted, emphasizing their ability to displace generator use. The project also aligns with local conservation priorities: near-silent EV operation reduces disturbance to elephants, giraffes and other wildlife protected within the conservancy.
Electrogenic offers kits for a range of classic models—including the Land Rover Series, Jaguar E-Type, Mazda MX-5 and others—and provides EV powertrain solutions for low-volume manufacturers. The company maintains a bespoke conversion business as well, with past projects including a 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II and an Aston Martin DB6.
