Business Insights and Market Implications Summary

Kenya's E-Bike Transition

• Key Players: Non-bank lenders Watu Credit and Mogo.
• Financing Options: Low down payments, weekly plans, 24-month repayment terms, GPS tracking.
• Market Impact: Supports Kenya’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050, aligns with ESG principles.
• Challenges: High interest rates, limited charging infrastructure.

Honda Airways Expansion in Japan

• New Role: Authorized Sales Representative for Honda Aircraft Company.
• Focus: Enhancing sales process for Japanese owners and operators.
• Partnership: Collaborates with Japan General Aviation Service (JGAS) for maintenance.

CN Railroad Investments

• Investment: $3.4 billion CAD in 2025, net of customer reimbursements.
• Allocations:
  • Maintenance and infrastructure: $2.9 billion.
  • Rolling stock upgrades: Over $500 million.
• Projects: 225+ miles of new rail, eight capacity-building projects in Western Canada.

EV Tariffs Impact

• Exemptions: 93% of mixed-powertrain EVs sold in Canada are not subject to tariffs.
• Affected Models: BMW X5 PHEV, Mercedes EQE/SUVs, Polestar 3, VW ID.4, Volvo EX90.
• Tesla/Rivian Impact: Full tariff impact due to US-Canada trade rules.

Electric Mobility Startups

• Slate Auto: Launching a $25,000 electric pickup truck in late 2026.
• Features: 150-mile range, 150,000/year production capacity, SK On batteries.
• Strategic Focus: Efficient design, US-based supply chain.

Honda Malaysia's BEV Launch

• Model: e:N1 priced at RM149,900.
• Specifications:
  • 68.8kWh battery, 150kW power, 310Nm torque.
  • AC charging (10kW), DC fast charging (78kW).
• Demand: 200 pre-launch bookings, first deliveries in June.

EV Manufacturing Challenges

• Honda Delay: $15 billion Ontario EV project delayed due to tariffs and market demand.
• Subaru Re-evaluation: Slow sales and potential tariffs impacting EV plans.
• Nissan Struggles: 42% sales drop since 2017, tariff impact of 450 billion yen.

Apple CarPlay Ultra

• Launch: Integrates smartphone functions with car data and controls.
• Availability: Pre-installed in Aston Martin vehicles.
• Requirements: iPhone 12 or later, iOS 18.4 minimum.

Labour and Tariff Concerns

• Impact: Trump tariffs threatening auto industry jobs in Canada.
• Government Response: Emphasis on Canadian workforce protections.

Sustainability and Mobility Trends

• E-Bike Adoption: Kenya’s shift to e-bikes driven by financial solutions for boda-boda riders.
• Mobility Ecosystem: Honda Aircraft Company integrating aviation into broader mobility strategies.