[FEATURED] Inside Akagera Motors’ prestigious car showroom: A look at Rwanda’s first full-size hybrid pickup and more

Akagera Motors has showcased its latest line-up of electric and hybrid vehicles, including Rwanda’s first and only full-size hybrid pickup, marking its continuous determination to distribute high-tech and eco-friendly automobiles. Known for its reputation in distributing high-quality and standard vehicles since 1997, Akagera Motors continues to enhance sustainable mobility with high-tech and modern models such as the Foton TUNLAND V9 hybrid pickup, the fully electric Foton eTUNLAND, and Kia EV5. ALSO READ: Akagera Motors launches hybrid electrical vehicles These vehicles are engineered for high performance, fuel efficiency, and adaptability to Rwanda’s unique terrain. Foton Tunland V9: Rwanda’s first full-size hybrid pickup Among the standout models in the showroom is the Foton Tunland V9, the first-ever and only full-size hybrid pickup truck in Rwanda. Built with advanced technology, this vehicle boasts 360-degree cameras that provide a full external view displayed on a 14.6-inch multifunctional central control touchscreen. James Zhao, Foton’s Vehicle Sales and Marketing representative in Rwanda, described the V9 as Foton’s latest generation pickup designed to combine power and efficiency. “This is our newest generation pickup, full-size pickup. And this is the first batch arriving in the Rwanda market,” Zhao explained. “It features a 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine, paired with a 48V hybrid electric motor.” Equipped with front and rear radars and 360-degree cameras, the vehicle enhances driver safety by providing lane departure warnings and real-time monitoring. This full-size pickup has smart voice and facial recognition facilitated by its infrared cameras and sensors, which helps in fatigue driving monitoring and lack of focus while driving, and sends beeping alerts to the screen. The keyless vehicle also features wireless charging, automated hazard detection and dual-zone air conditioning, a premium six-speaker audio system, an interior of leather, inner ambient light emitting diode (LED) lights, panoramic sunroof, and heated and cooling seats. With many LED light colour options, including daytime running lights, Foton Tunland V9 provides an exceptional driving experience. Fit for off-road performance, the Foton Tunland V9 features four-wheel drive (4x4) capabilities with a rear axle differential lock, crucial for tackling Rwanda’s hilly terrain. This vehicle also can pull 3,500 kilogrammes (towing capacity). This vehicle is also a vehicle-to-load (V2L) automobile. It has a rear tailgate assist step, a 5 link rear suspension, and a spray-in bedliner. Despite its robust build, it remains fuel-efficient and also has a 48-volt hybrid system. “Its hybrid engine ensures that fuel consumption remains low. It helps customers save money on diesel without compromising power,” Zhao added. The Foton Tunland V9 is priced at Rwf60 million and comes with a three-year or 100,000 kilometres (km) warranty. Foton eTUNLAND: Fully electric workhorse In addition to the hybrid pickup, in Akagera Motors’ showroom parks the Foton eTUNLAND, a fully electric pickup designed for urban and rural use. This double-cabin pickup delivers a range of 400 kilometres on a full charge. Its battery can charge from 20 per cent to 80 per cent in under an hour using a 70 kilowatt (kW) direct current (DC) fast charger, which is also available at Akagera Motors. For home or AC charging, the battery reaches full capacity in under eight hours with an 11 kilowatt (kW) alternating current (AC) charger. Manufactured with artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), the Foton eTunland features a chassis-based structure, making it better suited for Rwanda’s challenging terrain compared to commonly used traditional monocoque electric pickups in Rwanda. Unlike many electric pickups that struggle in hilly regions, the Foton eTunland is equipped with a skid plate to protect its underside, ensuring durability in rough environments. Additional features include automatic air conditioning, finely stitched leather seats, and electronic parking brakes (EPB) for improved handling. The Foton eTunland is priced at Rwf70 million and comes with a five-year or 200,000 kilometres warranty for the battery and a three-year or 100,000 kilometres warranty for the chassis. Kia EV5: Styled eco-friendly SUV In the family of electric SUVs, Akagera Motors has the midrange SUV, Kia EV5, making it the first non-Chinese fully electric SUV in Rwanda. This model aligns with the Rwandan government’s push for electric mobility and promotes sustainability by using vegan leather interiors. The Kia EV5 has LED headlamps, daytime running lights, rain-sensing technology, six airbags, and a premium six-speaker audio system. When fully charged, the Kia EV5’s 64.2 kilowatt-hour (KWh) battery delivers a driving range of 400 kilometres (km), with an electric vehicle (EV) fuel economy of 18.2 kilowatt-hours (KWh) per 100 kilometres. Abdul Kakombe Ruganyira, Sales Executive at Akagera Motors, emphasised the high specifications of the Kia EV5, highlighting features such as tinted windows, parking sensors, combined leather and cloth seats, and reversing cameras. “This car runs entirely on LED lighting, meaning there are no traditional bulbs. It is a 2025 model with advanced technology and eco-friendly features,” he added. The Kia EV5 is priced at Rwf72 million and comes with a three-year or 100,000-kilometre warranty for the vehicle and an eight-year or 160,000-kilometre battery warranty. All electric and hybrid vehicles showcased are 2025 models, and Akagera Motors ensured that all the hybrid and electric vehicles they sell come with readily available fast-moving spare parts. Roopak Gorajia, Sales and Marketing Director at Akagera Motors, reassured that clients would have easy access to necessary repairs, maintenance, and customisation options tailored to individual needs. --

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[FEATURED] Inside Akagera Motors’ prestigious car showroom: A look at Rwanda’s first full-size hybrid pickup and more