By Teddy Mwanza– Head of Driving School, AA Kenya.
In 1962, AA Kenya made history by pioneering the first driving school in the country, starting with just a single car: a Ford Anglia.
The journey from then to the present day has been nothing short of remarkable. Some may have come across a comical black and white photo capturing a formative training session, where aspiring drivers sat behind desks with steering wheels fixed to the boards, and rocks on their heads to enforce an upright posture. It may sound like a scene from a bygone era, but that photo is indeed real.
Fast forward to today, the landscape of mobility has undergone a profound transformation. The evolution of cars has paved the way for a revolution in alternative modes of transportation, particularly with the advent of electric vehicles (EVs). As the world embraces this new era of mobility, AA Kenya, with its rich history and legacy, is now at the forefront of embracing the EV revolution.
AA has witnessed significant changes in the automotive industry, and it is now gearing up to embrace the EV revolution in the Driving School by:
Education and training- AA is incorporating Electric Vehicle education and training into its curriculum. As part of this initiative, new drivers will be educated on the benefits and features of electric vehicles, including charging procedures, range management, and driving dynamics compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Promotion of sustainable transportation- as the world moves to environmentally friendly transportation options, AA Driving School has plans to introduce EV vehicles into its fleet to promote sustainability. Through the use of EVs for training, the driving instructors will be able to highlight the reduced carbon footprint and lower emissions associated with electric vehicles, encouraging students to consider them as viable alternatives to traditional cars.
Demonstration and test drives- AA will organize EV test drives and practical lessons that will allow students to experience driving electric vehicles firsthand. Positive experiences during these sessions will help dispel misconceptions about EVs and encourage students to consider them for future vehicle purchases.
Having instructors as advocates of EV- AA has embarked on a structured training of all our instructors on the use, vehicle handling, and maintenance of EVs so that they can become advocates for electric vehicles by sharing their knowledge and experience with students.
Partnership with EV Manufacturers– The AAK driving school is exploring ways of partnering with EV manufacturers or dealers so that they can offer training programs or discounts on EV purchases to our students. This will act as an incentive to the students after they pass the test and are looking forward to buying a car. The discounts will be viable in ensuring they opt for electric vehicles as opposed to traditional cars.
Basic Autocare course for EVs maintenance- Lastly, AA Kenya will introduce a basic autocare course specifically tailored for EVs, ensuring that students are equipped with the necessary skills to maintain and care for electric vehicles.
AA Driving School is committed to preparing the next generation of drivers for a future where electric vehicles will play a significant role in shaping sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation options.
Always good to see what AA is doing. keep up the good work