VivoPower's Tembo signs Definitive Supply Agreement with pre-eminent African safari operator Asilia Africa
First phase of Definitive Supply Agreement will see Tembo deliver its EUV25 EPower conversion kits for Asilia's fleet of Landcruisers, commencing from February 2025
Partnership will establish Asilia Africa and Tembo e-LV as key enablers of sustainable tourism in Africa, with a goal to scale across Asilia's 16 camps and broader industry networks
Tembo's 4x4 electric utility vehicles, renowned for durability in extreme conditions, will transport guests, staff, and supplies while operating entirely on renewable energy
Initiative is expected to reduce Asilia's annual diesel consumption and carbon emissions, advancing both companies' net-zero goals
Partnership reinforces Asilia Africa and VivoPower's commitment to ESG leadership as fellow Certified B Corporations
LONDON, Feb. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) ("VivoPower" or the "Company") announced today that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tembo e-LV B.V. ("Tembo"), has entered into a definitive supply agreement with the pre-eminent safari operator and fellow Certified B Corporation, Asilia Africa ("Asilia"), to deploy Tembo's ruggedized electric utility vehicles across Asilia's safari operations in East Africa, marking a transformative step toward decarbonizing the tourism sector in Africa.
Under the first phase of the agreement, Tembo will supply its next generation EUV25 EPower conversion kits, with the first delivery scheduled from the end of February 2025. Assembly will be completed locally in Kenya.
Established in 2004, Asilia Africa has become a renowned leader in immersive safari experiences across East Africa. It is committed to delivering exceptional safaris while safeguarding the region's ecosystems and wildlife. Asilia owns 16 bespoke camps and lodges across Kenya and Tanzania, employing nearly 1,000 people. It operates 165 Landcruisers as part of its vehicle fleet. Asilia is a member of the Nawiri Group, a B Corp Certified organization dedicated to sustainable, community-driven impact in East Africa.
The definitive supply agreement between VivoPower and Asilia underscores a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and innovation—core tenets of the B Corporation certification held by both companies.
The partnership aligns with VivoPower's mission to deliver sustainable energy and transportation solutions that enhance operational resilience and cost savings while reducing carbon footprints. It also builds upon Asilia's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2025 while preserving the pristine ecosystems central to its business. Tembo's purpose-built electric utility vehicles (EUVs) will replace diesel-powered fleets in Asilia's remote safari camps, eliminating emissions, noise pollution, and operational reliance on fossil fuels in ecologically sensitive regions.
Matthew Nestor, VivoPower's Global Head of Partnerships and Sales, said: "We are delighted to have been selected by Asilia as their fleet electrification partner. This partnership exemplifies how aligned values drive meaningful progress in sustainability. Asilia's leadership in eco-conscious tourism and Tembo's ruggedized EV technology combined, can prove that electrification will be effective even in the most challenging environments—protecting wildlife, supporting local communities, and offering guests a cleaner, quieter safari experience."
Gerard Beaton, Head of Operations, Asilia Africa, said:
"Asilia Africa is committed to pioneering sustainable tourism solutions that protect and preserve the incredible ecosystems we call home. We are very pleased to be partnering with a fellow B Corporation in VivoPower and Tembo as we accelerate our plans of reducing our environmental footprint while enhancing the safari experience for our guests. By integrating Tembo's electric utility vehicles into our fleet, we can not only lower our carbon emissions but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of Africa's wilderness. This collaboration reflects our dedication to responsible tourism, innovation, and community-driven impact, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the magic of East Africa's landscapes and wildlife."
About EUV25 EPower conversion kit
The EUV25 EPower kit is the latest electric conversion kit for Landcruisers, specifically designed to accommodate rugged off-road terrain and conditions, as well as heavy payload. Tembo's EUV25 builds on the legendary design of the Land Cruiser LC70, which has been an iconic and ubiquitous mode of transportation throughout Africa. Because of its rugged reliability and adaptability to challenging terrains, the LC70 has secured its place as the vehicle of choice traversing vast deserts, remote areas, and mountainous landscapes. Its durable design and ability to withstand extreme temperatures has made it indispensable for industries such as remote ecotourism, resources exploration, agriculture, and logistics.
About VivoPower
Established in 2014 and listed on Nasdaq since 2016, VivoPower is an award-winning global sustainable energy solutions B Corporation company focussed on electric solutions for off-road and on-road customised and ruggedised fleet applications as well as ancillary financing, charging, battery and microgrids solutions. VivoPower's core purpose is to provide its customers with turnkey decarbonisation solutions that enable them to move toward net-zero carbon status. VivoPower has operations and personnel covering Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates.
About Asilia Africa
Founded in 2004 on a deep-rooted passion for conservation and community empowerment, Asilia Africa has been a leader in immersive safari experiences across East Africa for decades. True to its Swahili name—meaning "authentic" and "genuine"—Asilia is committed to delivering exceptional safaris while safeguarding the region's ecosystems and wildlife.
Since its origins with Rekero Camp in 1986 and Oliver's Camp in 1992, Asilia has grown into a premier safari operator with 16 bespoke camps and lodges across Kenya and Tanzania, employing nearly 1,000 people. The company harnesses the power of tourism to create lasting positive change, from responsibly sourcing energy and materials to supporting local communities and conservation initiatives.
Asilia is a proud member of the Nawiri Group, a B Corp Certified organization dedicated to sustainable, community-driven impact in East Africa. Through meaningful partnerships and a steadfast commitment to responsible travel, Asilia continues to inspire the next generation of adventurers and conservationists alike.
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