The evolution of technology in Uganda has reached new heights. Besides Kiira Motor Manufacturing Company, known for producing electric buses, local businesses are joining the green revolution. Gas companies are now gifting personal electric vehicles to customers in a bid to promote environmental conservation.
On Wednesday, July 25, 2024, the Mandela Group announced the winners of their electric car giveaway, a promotion that has been running for nearly a year. The first two lucky winners are John Bosco Mugisha and Florence from Mbale.
John Bosco Mugisha, the Lucky Winner with his son
“I didn’t see this coming. I never expected to win,” exclaimed John Bosco Mugisha, one of the winners. “When they called me, I thought they were 'bafere' (conmen) because this is Kampala. Since my office is near here, I decided to come with my son, so if anything went wrong, he could take the news back home. But I am very happy that I am the lucky winner. I thank Mandela Group for giving back to us because I bought the tires for my safety.”
Both winners participated in the draw by purchasing Linglong tires at the City Oil Nakawa branch.
Embracing Green Technology
These electric cars are not just environmentally friendly; they are also cost-effective, as they do not require fuel. Richard Wandawa, the Technical Director of Mandela Group, stated, “We can’t stop or stand in the way of technological evolution. At Mandela Group, we always aim to keep our clients happy by embracing new technology and giving back to them.”
He added, “Apart from these cars being environment conservers, they are cost-cutting because they don’t use fuel. We have started with these, but in our next promotion, we shall have vehicles that are even more suited to our roads than these.”
Car Features and Infrastructure
The electric car, once fully charged, can cover a distance of more than 300 kilometers. Charging at home takes approximately eight hours to reach full battery capacity.
In collaboration with the government of Uganda, City Oil is establishing charging centers across the country to support this green initiative. Advanced facilities, such as the one at City Oil Kamwokya, can charge a car fully in just 30 minutes.
The Draw Event
The first draw took place at City Oil Kira Road, with Linglong represented by Aaron Xu, the company's Vice President, and Kathy Kao, the Africa Sales and Marketing Director. The Mandela Group of Companies was represented by Director Ahmed Yasir and CEO Venkatesh Kumar. The draw was conducted by former Motorsport President Dusman Okee and former Vision Group CEO Robert Kabushenga.
The Mandela Group’s initiative reflects a growing trend in Uganda towards embracing sustainable technologies. By offering electric vehicles as promotional prizes, they not only promote environmental conservation but also set a precedent for other companies to follow in supporting green innovation.
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