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5 Car Loan Myths Holding You Back (and Why It’s Time to Let Them Go)

5 Car Loan Myths Holding You Back (and Why It’s Time to Let Them Go) For many people, owning a car feels like another long-term goal on their wish list, not because they can’t be able to manage monthly repayments, but because of the stories they’ve heard about getting entangled with loans, especially car loans. From “they’re only for the rich” to “the process is a nightmare,” not forgetting “it will end in tears.” These myths often stop people before they even explore their options. The truth? Car financing has evolved. Let’s unpack five common car loan myths that might be holding you back. This is one of the most common misconceptions. In reality, many car loans are designed specifically for used vehicles. Quality, well-maintained used cars can be financed just as easily as new ones, and often at a much lower overall cost. Financing a used car allows you to get more value for your money, avoid steep depreciation, and still enjoy reliable performance. Autochek finances cars from 2012 upwards. Get some options here. Car loans used to mean piles of forms, multiple visits to the showroom, bank, insurance companies, and long waiting periods. That’s no longer the case. Today, most lenders require only a few basic documents such as identification, proof of income, and bank statements. With much of the process now digital, applying for a car loan is simpler and faster than many people expect. You can actually get pre-qualified and find out how much you qualify for here. Not all car loans are the same. Interest rates vary depending on the lender, the type of car, and your financial profile. While some options may be expensive, many lenders offer competitive and manageable rates. When compared to the cost of waiting years to save the full amount in cash, financing can actually make more financial sense. This myth is firmly in the past. Modern credit systems like Autochek’s provide quick assessment of loan applications with a tentative approval available in minutes. In many cases, approvals take just a few hours once your documents are in order. That means less waiting and more time focusing on choosing the right car. While a higher deposit can lower your monthly repayments, it doesn’t always need to be large. Autochek offers up to 70% financing with flexible deposit requirements, making car ownership more accessible. What matters most is choosing a repayment plan that fits comfortably within your budget. Car loans today are built for life in today’s world. Busy schedules, practical budgets, and the need to move forward without unnecessary delays. Holding back because of outdated myths can mean missing out on opportunities, convenience, and peace of mind. The real cost isn’t the loan; it’s staying stuck when better options are available. If you’re ready to stop waiting and start driving, Autochek makes it simple. From flexible financing options and competitive rates to fast approvals and access to quality cars, Autochek helps you move from “someday” to “today.” Don’t let myths decide for you. Explore your options, choose a car that fits your life, and let Autochek help you get on the road, faster and smarter

Dec 29, 2025

5 Car Loan Myths Holding You Back (and Why It’s Time to Let Them Go)
Most Affordable Cars to Buy in Kenya Now

Most Affordable Cars to Buy in Kenya Now Owning a car in Kenya isn’t just about convenience anymore; it’s a lifeline. From escaping the matatu madness to beating traffic, getting to work on time, or running your business without a hitch, a reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable car has become a must-have for everyone But with fluctuating exchange rates and rising import costs, many Kenyans are now asking the same question: Which car can I afford now without breaking the bank? Check how much you qualify for here. This guide highlights some of the most affordable cars in Kenya across three popular categories, budget-friendly cars, mid-size SUVs, and crossovers, and shows how Autochek makes owning one easier through flexible financing options. What Makes a Car “Affordable” in Kenya Today? Affordability goes beyond the price at the dealership. Smart buyers also consider long-term ownership costs and value. Before choosing a car, it’s important to consider the following: Fuel consumption: With fuel prices remaining unpredictable, efficiency is key, especially for daily drivers. Spare parts availability: Easy access to parts means lower repair costs and less downtime. Maintenance costs: Regular servicing should be manageable, not a financial burden. Resale value: Some cars retain their value better, making them easier to sell later. Financing options: How the monthly repayment fits into your income. Budget-Friendly Cars (Best for First-Time Buyers) These cars are common on Kenyan roads for good reason. They’re affordable to buy, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain, making them ideal for city driving and first-time car ownership. Toyota Vitz Price: KSh 550,000–900,000 A long-time Kenyan favourite thanks to its reliability, excellent fuel economy, and affordable spare parts. Ideal for daily commuting. Honda Fit Price: KSh 600,000–950,000 Sporty, practical, and fuel-efficient. Maintenance costs are slightly higher than the Vitz but still manageable. Mazda Demio Price: KSh 550,000–1,000,000 Comfortable, efficient, and modern-looking, a great option if you want value without stretching your budget. Toyota Passo Price: KSh 450,000–800,000 One of the most fuel-efficient small cars in Kenya. Perfect for new drivers and daily city errands. Nissan Note Price: KSh 600,000–1,000,000 Offers more cabin space, a smooth drive, and solid fuel economy, great value for money. Financing tip: These models often qualify for quicker approvals on Autochek due to their strong resale value and lower risk profile. Ideal for families, long-distance driving, or anyone upgrading from a small car Mid-size SUVs offer the perfect balance of comfort, space, and practicality. They remain affordable when purchased through financing. Mazda CX-5 Price: KSh 1.8M — 3.2M Stylish, spacious, and fuel-efficient. A top choice for middle-income families. Toyota Harrier Price: KSh 1.9M — 3.5M Delivers a premium feel without the premium price. Known for comfort and reliability. Nissan X-Trail Price: KSh 1.6M — 2.8M Great boot space, good ground clearance, and suitable for both urban and rougher roads. Subaru Forester Price: KSh 1.8M — 3.2M Excellent for long-distance travel, offering solid performance and dependable AWD capability. Toyota Vanguard Price: KSh 1.8M — 3.0M A powerful and spacious alternative to the RAV4, ideal for families that need extra room. How do most buyers get cars in this category? Many see these vehicles as an upgrade to celebrate a career milestone or a new business achievement. When it comes to the latest models in this category, buyers often turn to financing. These new SUVs come fully loaded with bigger screens, leather seats, and premium features, which makes them more expensive upfront. With Autochek’s financing options, buyers can drive off with just a 30–40% down payment and spread the balance over 6 to 48 months, making it easier to own a high-end SUV without stretching their budget. Top Affordable Crossovers in Kenya (2025 Trend Leaders) Crossovers continue to dominate the Kenyan market because they combine SUV styling with better fuel efficiency and modern features. Honda Vezel Price: KSh 1.6M — 2.8M Modern, stylish, and very fuel-efficient — especially the hybrid option. Popular with young professionals. Toyota RAV4 Price: KSh 2.0M — 3.4M Reliable, versatile, and known for excellent resale value. A favourite for travel and family use. Nissan Juke Price: KSh 1.2M — 1.9M Compact, efficient, and affordable with a distinctive design. Subaru XV Price: KSh 1.4M — 2.3M Offers Subaru performance and stability without heavy fuel consumption. Mazda CX-3 Price: KSh 1.5M — 2.5M Compact, stylish, and well-suited for city and peri-urban driving. What’s making crossovers so popular? Crossovers have become a favorite among Kenyan drivers because they combine modern styling with improved fuel efficiency, making them practical for daily commutes, school runs, and family trips. In busy cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, their compact yet spacious design makes navigating traffic and parking easier than larger SUVs. For buyers outside the city, crossovers offer the comfort and versatility needed for longer drives upcountry. With financing options, these vehicles are even more accessible, allowing buyers to get behind the wheel without paying the full amount upfront, making it easier to enjoy style, comfort, and convenience without stretching the budget. How Autochek Makes Car Ownership More Affordable Autochek helps you buy with confidence and within your budget through: Flexible car financing: Spread payments over a period that works for you, with fast approvals and clear terms. Logbook loans: Unlock cash using your current car for business or emergencies while keeping ownership. Hire purchase & dealer financing: Structured payment plans available with select dealerships. Verified, inspected vehicles: Every car goes through inspection before listing. Trusted dealer network: Buy from vetted and reputable dealers across Kenya. Which Car Best Suits Your Budget and Lifestyle in Kenya Buying an affordable car isn’t just about the buying price. The right car should fit your income, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Know what you can repay each month comfortably Choose a repayment plan that leaves room for fuel, insurance, servicing, and everyday expenses, not one that stretches your salary. Prioritize fuel efficiency if you drive often Daily commuting or business use makes fuel consumption a major cost. Smaller engines and hybrids can save you significantly over time. Factor in maintenance and spare parts availability Cars with readily available parts and experienced mechanics are usually easier to maintain. Think about resale value early If you plan to upgrade later, choose a model that holds its value well to minimize losses. Compare similar models before committing Compare cars within the same category based on fuel use, service costs, features, and reliability. Plan ahead with Autochek’s pre-qualification checker Get pre-qualified with Autochek before applying for the loan to estimate repayments and choose a plan that fits your income comfortably. Not sure where to start? Here are reliable picks based on different needs: Best for daily commuting: Toyota Vitz, Mazda Demio, Toyota Passo Best affordable family SUVs: Mazda CX-5, Nissan X-Trail Best crossovers for young professionals: Honda Vezel, Nissan Juke, Mazda CX-3 Best long-term value: Toyota RAV4, Toyota Harrier Ready to get started? Browse verified affordable cars and apply for financing in minutes with Autochek.

Dec 19, 2025

Most Affordable Cars to Buy in Kenya Now
How to Make a Logbook Loan Work for You in Kenya

How to Make a Logbook Loan Work for You in Kenya How to Make a Logbook Loan Work for You in Kenya For many Kenyans, word of mouth is everything. Ask anyone who has never taken a logbook loan and you’ll likely hear the same warning; “Utapoteza gari!” On the other hand, if you talk to someone who was at wits end and borrowed a loan against their logbook, especially from a CBK-regulated lender, the story changes completely. Their experiences are often surprisingly positive, practical, and empowering. Financial needs have a way of showing up when we least expect them. It could be a business deal that needs urgent cash or it slips away, school fees due tomorrow morning while you’re still waiting for a payment to clear, or the hard truth that many of us are just one medical emergency away from financial strain, especially with how aggressively diseases like cancer are affecting families today. For many Kenyans, a logbook loan has become one of the fastest and most flexible ways to unlock cash without selling their car. But like any financial tool, a logbook loan works best when you use it wisely and with a trusted partner such as Autochek. Here’s how to make a logbook loan truly work for you. What Exactly Is a Logbook Loan? A logbook loan allows you to borrow money using your car as collateral. You keep driving your car, continue using it for work, business, or daily errands, but the logbook is jointly registered with you and the lender’s name until you complete repayment. At Autochek, the process is quick and transparent, allowing car owners to unlock the value of their vehicle without losing access to it. A logbook loan is most effective when one has a pressing need and you know exactly how much you need to solve it. Before borrowing, ask yourself: Is the loan going into income-generating activities that can repay that loan? Is it solving a pressing need that could cost more if delayed? Will the loan improve or stabilize my financial situation? The truth is, the most successful borrowers treat logbook loans as growth tools. They avoid using them to start risky ventures or to fund lavish spending sprees. One of the biggest mistakes many people make is borrowing the maximum amount they qualify for. Usikimbilie full limit, think about what you can comfortably manage. Look at your monthly income that comes in consistently, not the promises and “nitakutumia kesho” money. Consider your existing obligations, rent, school fees, chama contributions, business expenses, and any other loans you’re already servicing. Choose an amount that won’t stretch your budget, you want a loan you can pay without struggling every end-month. With Autochek’s flexible repayment plans, you can pick a schedule that fits your cash flow, whether your income is daily, weekly, or monthly, so the loan stays manageable from start to finish. Your vehicle is the backbone of this loan, so keeping it well-maintained is non-negotiable. Good maintenance, protects your collateral, keeps your car reliable and usable, maintains its value throughout the loan period Autochek’s offer comes with a considerate comprehensive insurance that covers your vehicle during the loan period, broken into easy monthly installments spread across one year or the full loan duration without interest. You can also opt into car servicing from reputable service centers like AutoXpress, available nationwide, ensuring your car stays in top shape and retains its value, all of these factored in the loan agreement Repaying your instalments on time is more than just avoiding penalties, it builds a strong credit reputation. This record becomes invaluable if you plan to access larger financing in the future, whether it’s: A top-up loan for urgent needs Business expansion funding to scale operations Financing another vehicle for personal use or income-generating activities With Autochek, repayments are reported responsibly to the relevant credit bureaus, meaning that good repayment behavior works in your favor. Over time, this can open doors to bigger loans, better interest rates, and more financial opportunities. Not all lenders are the same. A trustworthy partner offers clear terms, fair pricing, fast processing, and responsive support. Autochek’s logbook loan comes with great benefits: Cash in as little as 48 hours Flexible repayment schedules that match your income Nationwide access to services Loans up to Ksh 5 million The right lender ensures your loan is a tool for growth, not stress. By partnering with a reputable lender like Autochek, you reduce risk, gain peace of mind, and maximize the benefits of your logbook loan. A logbook loan isn’t a last resort, it’s a financial tool. Used wisely, it can help you grow a business, stabilize your finances, or bounce back from life’s surprises. With good planning and the right partner, your car can do more than get you from A to B, it can help you move forward. Autochek’s log book loan is easy to apply for and has quick approval. Here’s a video showing you how to apply: How to Easily Apply for a Loan Using Your Logbook: Step-by-Step Guide.

Dec 1, 2025

How to Make a Logbook Loan Work for You in Kenya
2025 in Motion: A Look at Kenya’s Automotive Market and the Road Ahead

Car prices, electric vehicles, and financing trends reshaped Kenya’s automotive market in 2025. Here’s a full review and what to expect in 2026. As we drive towards the sunset of 2025, car prices in Kenya and other markets continue to rise. Country specific importation rules, currency fluctuations, and rising global production costs mean that most vehicles landing at Mombasa Port are now 2019 models and above for the local market. This has created a scramble for slightly older models from 2016 to 2018, as buyers seek slightly lower cost units that are gently used or freshly imported. For many of these buyers, flexible car financing options like higher purchase arrangements with dealers or CBK regulated financiers like Autochek have made it possible to bridge the affordability gap, breathing life into far fetched dreams of low income earners buying slightly newer, better vehicles and pay in manageable monthly installments. Dealerships across major towns like Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Mombasa and others, report that more customers are going for financing options over paying in cash, reflecting a growing confidence in structured auto finance. 2025 also marked the end of several iconic models beloved by Kenyan motorists, like the Nissan GT-R, Subaru Legacy, Mitsubishi Mirage, Audi A4, Jaguar XF, Ford Escape, and Volvo S60. While these models have strong nostalgia value, automakers have shifted their focus to hybrids, crossovers and compact SUVs, aligning with the global movement toward fuel efficiency, versatility, and lower emissions. For dealers and buyers alike, Autochek’s dealer network has become a vital hub to explore updated models that match changing market trends. Compact SUVs and crossovers have officially become Kenya’s best-selling vehicle segment in 2025. Models such as the Toyota CHR, Honda Vezel, Mitsubishi RVR, Nissan Dualis/Qashqai, Mazda CX-3, and Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 continue to increase on demand. The appeal lies in their relatively smaller size, engine size, improved fuel economy, and good ground clearance which are perfect for Kenya’s varied terrains. These vehicles blend practicality and style, making them attractive to both urban professionals and small families. Kenya’s electric vehicle (EV) movement gained real traction in 2025. With reduced import duty and excise tax on hybrid and fully electric vehicles, more brands entered the local market. New arrivals such as Henry Electric (targeting ride-hailing fleets), BYD, Nissan Leaf Dolphin, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Neta V have introduced fresh options for green-minded buyers. However, while Nairobi and Mombasa are seeing an increase in charging stations, the network outside major towns remains limited. Car lovers are set to win big, with plans underway to open the eagerly awaited assembly of the Jetour vehicles in Mombasa which is set to give the region more options for game-changing SUVs that are built for our roads, with smart tech, bold design, and real off-road capabilities. Perhaps the biggest shift of 2025 is how car financing has transformed vehicle ownership. Cars are no longer a privilege for the rich only, today, thousands of Kenyans are leveraging regulated financing platforms like Autochek’s to get pre-qualified online in minutes, and drive away in vehicles that match their budgets and lifestyles. Whether it’s a fuel-efficient crossover, a family-friendly SUV, or a fully electric vehicle, Autochek’s financing options allow buyers to choose cars that meet their needs, and pay in affordable installments that work with their income flow. This democratization of car ownership has made Autochek a vital link between consumers, dealers, and financiers across Kenya and the wider East African market. As 2025 winds down, Kenya’s car market feels more alive and forward-looking than it has in years. Buyers are sharper, financing options are opening up, and global manufacturers are paying closer attention to Africa’s potential. The next big shifts will come from three places: electric mobility, local vehicle assembly, and smarter digital financing systems. These are areas where Autochek is already deeply invested, helping shape what tomorrow’s car ownership will look like. For Kenyan drivers, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of more choice, more convenience, and more innovation on the road. And with Autochek pushing to make buying and owning a car simpler and more transparent, the journey ahead looks promising, maybe even a little bit exciting.

Nov 14, 2025

2025 in Motion: A Look at Kenya’s Automotive Market and the Road Ahead
Stanbic IBTC Bank, Autochek celebrate successful partnership in boosting car ownership, disburses…

Stanbic IBTC Bank, Autochek celebrate successful partnership in boosting car ownership, disburses N3.55Bn / Partnership/ March 2025 Stanbic IBTC Bank, a prominent financial institution in Nigeria, has partnered with Autochek, an innovative automotive technology firm, to facilitate access to car ownership in Nigeria. This collaboration has disbursed over ₦3.55 billion in loans since its inception in August 2024, empowering numerous individuals to purchase their desired vehicles. With approximately ₦1.5 billion in deals that are currently being processed, the partnership is poised for continued growth and impact on the Nigerian automotive landscape. This vehicle-financing collaboration combines Stanbic IBTC Bank’s extensive financial expertise and network with Autochek’s cutting-edge technology platform and robust dealer distribution network, streamlining the car-buying process and making it more accessible and affordable for Nigerians. Speaking at the media parley held in Lagos to engage stakeholders in the industry, Olu Delano, Executive Director, Personal & Private Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, stated, “We are incredibly excited about the tangible impact of our collaboration with Autochek. This partnership has significantly lowered the barriers to car ownership, making it a reality for many Nigerians. At Stanbic IBTC Bank, we are dedicated to providing innovative financial solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers. We are committed to the long-term success of this partnership and its contribution to the growth and development of Nigeria’s automotive industry.” Mayokun Fadeyibi, Chief Operating Officer at Autochek, highlighted the transformative nature of the partnership. “Our collaboration with Stanbic IBTC Bank has revolutionised the car-buying experience in Nigeria. By leveraging technology and strategic partnerships, we have made car ownership more accessible, convenient, and transparent. We share Stanbic IBTC Bank’s commitment to driving growth in the automotive sector and look forward to expanding the reach and impact of this partnership.” The car financing programme offered through this strategic alliance provides several key advantages for customers. Highlights include competitive interest rates that enhance affordability, as well as flexible repayment plans. With a swift and efficient application process, customers enjoy a smooth and convenient experience. Additionally, Autochek’s platform and extensive dealer distribution network gives customers access to various vehicles, ensuring they can find the perfect car to meet their needs. This successful collaboration underscores Stanbic IBTC Bank’s unwavering commitment to providing innovative financial solutions that empower its customers and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth. The partnership with Autochek epitomises this commitment by simplifying access to essential assets and supporting the development of the automotive industry. -END-

Jun 26, 2025

Stanbic IBTC Bank, Autochek celebrate successful partnership in boosting car ownership, disburses…
Consumer Credit: CREDICORP Partners with Autochek to Fund Affordable First-time Car Ownership for…

Consumer Credit: CREDICORP Partners with Autochek to Fund Affordable First-time Car Ownership for Nigerians. / Partnership/ March 18th, 2025 Millions of hardworking Nigerians dream of owning a car, but high upfront costs have made it nearly impossible. Today, the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) and Autochek, a leading automotive technology platform, are changing that with a game-changing financing solution for first-time car buyers. This groundbreaking initiative was launched in March 2025, and we have received over a thousand applications to date. We have successfully deployed 150 million Naira worth of vehicle loans, with another 1 billion Naira currently being processed. This scheme is designed to make car ownership more accessible and affordable, helping Nigerians secure financing with ease. By breaking down financial barriers that have long limited mobility and economic opportunities, this partnership is set to transform lives and accelerate national economic growth. Driving Progress: First Car, Infinite Possibilities For many Nigerians, a car is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a gateway to independence, career growth, business expansion, and an improved quality of life. Yet, the high cost of vehicle ownership has long been a barrier, forcing many to depend on expensive and unreliable transport options. With this initiative, CREDICORP and Autochek are making first-time car ownership more accessible. Autochek provides the infrastructure that enables financial institutions to offer real-time credit assessment, valuation, and ownership management services, including registration, maintenance, and insurance, while also supporting the management of the auto loan portfolio. Additionally, Autochek has developed a vast nationwide dealer distribution network that ensures the CrediCorp offer is easily accessible to the average Nigerian. Through these flexible financing solutions, we’re empowering more Nigerians to drive their first cars, unlocking new opportunities without unnecessary stress or financial strain. Engr. Uzoma Nwagba, Managing Director of CREDICORP, emphasized the initiative’s transformative impact: “For many people, owning a car is not just about convenience, it’s about progress. It’s about taking control of your time, unlocking new opportunities, and improving your overall quality of life. Through this partnership, we are eliminating the financial barriers that have kept hardworking Nigerians from reaching this important milestone. With CREDICORP-backed financing through Autochek, first-time car owners can now get behind the wheel without the usual stress and long wait times.” Beyond increasing car ownership, this initiative will create a positive ripple effect across Nigeria’s automotive industry. Dealerships will experience increased sales, mechanics and garage vendors will see more business, and insurance providers will gain more clients. By making vehicle financing more accessible, this partnership is not just putting people behind the wheel — it is stimulating job creation, business growth, and economic expansion. Seamless, Digital-First Car Financing Dr. Mayokun Fadeyibi, COO of Autochek, highlighted the simplicity and impact of the financing process: “Our mission at Autochek is to make vehicle financing more accessible and affordable, recognizing that less than 2% of automotive transactions in Nigeria are currently financed, compared to the global average of 70%. We are delighted to support CrediCorp in enhancing vehicle financing penetration across Nigeria. Our focus is to extend this seamless digital application process and CrediCorp’s structured financing to every sales point and dealership across the country, ensuring customers have access to a wide array of vehicles and can purchase them with flexible repayment plans and minimal upfront costs. It’s simple, transparent, and designed to give everyday Nigerians a real shot at car ownership.” The process is fully digital, ensuring instant approvals and a stress-free experience. Interested Nigerians can start their car ownership journey today by walking to their nearest dealership to request a Creditcorp loan and submit their applications. With fast approvals and flexible repayment plans, this is the easiest way to own a car in Nigeria. Limited slots are available — apply now! This partnership marks a major step in making consumer credit work for Nigerians, ensuring that more first-time car buyers experience the freedom and opportunities that mobility provides. CREDICORP and Autochek are not just financing vehicles; they are transforming lives, one car at a time. With the best rates in the market, as low as 24%, unmatched by any other financier in Nigeria, we are making car ownership more affordable and accessible than ever before. For more information and to apply, visit www.autochek.africa or www.credicorp.ng.

Jun 26, 2025

Consumer Credit: CREDICORP Partners with Autochek to Fund Affordable First-time Car Ownership for…
‘Acquisitions position Autochek for aggressive growth in Africa’s auto market’

/ Featured / By Autochek Marketing Johan Van Der Merwe, CEO of Autochek Financial Services, in this interview with BusinessDay’s Frank Eleanya, speaks on the number of acquisitions the company has made in recent times across the continent. He also shares how the company is addressing car affordability for consumers facing rising inflation, currency fluctuations, and unfriendly policies the automotive industry grapples with on the continent. Autochek has been on an M&A spree in recent times. Tell us what the objective is for the company. At the base of our strategy is to enable mobility for the customer and through that make the customer journey as easy and quick and affordable as possible — in essence being a one-stop solution in the car buying process. Our acquisitions are not without extensive due diligence and assessment of the synergies that could be unlocked and enhance the mobility value chain for both our customer and dealer base. How much have you invested in these M&A exercises and what is the size of your portfolio now? The decision we made regarding the markets that we are entering was an informed and well-researched one where we assessed the absolute potential for growth as well as an identified market need that is not fulfilled by existing finance institutions. Everything we have been doing up to now has been to position us for aggressive growth. We have been building our dealer base and dealer reach across the countries we operate in, and we have automated crucial processes through the acquisition of world-class finance systems. All this has been achieved on the back of equity funding. We still have a two-pronged approach in partnering with financial institutions that recognize our value proposition but at the same time grow our own finance book. We have operations in Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and most recently Egypt. Our first round of debt funding that would put us on an increased trajectory in terms of business growth is in the process of finalization. While you are connecting markets in Africa, I can’t help but point out that regional politics still weighs on your sector as well as the financial sector. Is this why you chose to buy companies rather than build from scratch? Probably two aspects play a big role in this regard namely time-to-market and the fact that it is not always a great idea to reinvent the wheel. The acquisitions that we have done up to this stage have been of businesses that had a unique and established value proposition that could start contributing to our overall strategy from the get-go. The integration process into Autochek is obviously very important to unlock its full potential. A car purchase is subject to the level of income, among other factors, and more Africans went into poverty in countries like Nigeria and South Africa last year. How are you tackling this challenge? A lot of data analysis has gone into our scorecards in order to get the best predictive decision that determines if the customer would be able to afford the desired vehicle. It’s always prudent to err on the conservative side when assessing repayment to income. Affordability, however, is only one aspect of the approval process. We also look at the quality and value of the vehicle. All vehicles are financed after going through an in-depth inspection process and are financed with a maintenance plan, insurance, and tracking device that protects the customer from unexpected surprises that will negatively affect his cash flow. How about the rising inflation and automotive policies that seem to push up the prices of vehicles in the market? How does that affect your pricing and your relationship with financial services? Inflation, currency devaluations, and interest rate hikes are all bad news for financial institutions, dealerships as well as the customer. The African Market is underserved in terms of credit penetration and most financiers are quite risk-averse when it comes to the finance of vehicles as they don’t understand the underlying collateral value of specially imported vehicles as well as the dealer process that goes with Vehicle Finance. In most countries, bar South Africa and probably Morocco, there are very few OEMs that receive incentives to produce and/or assemble new vehicles which makes the countries’ transport systems very dependent on the importation of used vehicles and thus very susceptible to especially currency volatility. Why are you focusing on North Africa, in view of your acquisitions in Morocco and Egypt? Some opportunities presented themselves in these countries that were in line with our overall strategy. These markets also present massive growth potential. Egypt is currently the 2nd largest economy on the continent and a definite place that we at some stage were going to consider. The opportunity to acquire a stake in Autotager obviously brought that decision forward. The plan however is very much to stabilize the businesses in the specific countries that we operate in. Any acquisition is solely on potential and proper due diligence. How do you run your operations in 9 countries? Separate or connected? We are one of the truly pan-African companies on the continent. The countries are run separately but also very much connected. We have management structures in the country that understand the specific country’s nuances and markets but then centralized structures that coordinate overall strategy alignment, system, and very importantly communication. This aspect cannot be stressed enough — communication between the 9 countries is essential and next level to enable alignment and operational execution. One positive outcome of the Covid Pandemic has been the ability of some companies that have adapted to the remote way of running the business successfully — Autochek has built on this process. You are solving for human mobility, but there is also a huge gap in the movement of goods and services on the continent. Is that in your future or are you already doing something there? Right now, we are concentrating on getting the base and foundations right. It very much involves SMEs, ride-hailing and the like, but we have learned some early lessons that we need to understand larger and specialized vehicles and trucks a lot better to successfully enter this massive market. We definitely recognize this gap and in time will venture into this space as an extension of our value proposition but for now, we will perfect our offering in the retail vehicle market.

Jun 18, 2025

‘Acquisitions position Autochek for aggressive growth in Africa’s auto market’
The Journey to Improve Morocco’s Used Car Market while simultaneously ensuring that the environment…

The Journey to Improve Morocco’s Used Car Market while simultaneously ensuring that the environment isn’t negatively impacted by growth in the second-hand market. / Market Feature/ 3rd May 2023 “There was a great market opportunity to start KIFAL. The market is still growing even in a difficult economic context,” says KIFAL’s founder, Nizar Abdallaoui Maane. His company is all about boosting Morocco’s used-car market sustainably. To accelerate this market, KIFAL offers a range of services that includes mechanical expertise, vehicle quotations, administrative procedures, and providing customers with a transparent relationship of trust. But the real challenge is sustainability: reducing the carbon emissions from used cars. This is key to Morocco’s used car market growth because of the lack of public transport, explains Maane. Sustainability can be achieved All cars available on KIFAL’s site have had their carbon emissions tested. Each car’s carbon emission per kilometre is displayed on the platform and accessible to all customers. “Regarding Moroccan environmental rules, all newer cars must protect the environment. Ten years ago, the rule that was applied was the Euro 4 emissions standards. But now all cars imported should be Euro 6 compliant. And next year, the set standard will be the Euro 7, which means less consumption and fewer carbon emissions,” Maane states. A Euro standard sets the maximum level of exhaust a car can emit before it is ‘type approved’ and can be sold. Type approval is an essential practice that requires cars to meet certain safety and environmental requirements. Quality control on all vehicles KIFAL Auto addresses the concerns of potential used-car buyers, including the condition of the car, fair market value, maintenance and financing options. KIFAL plays an intermediary role between buyers and sellers. To ensure that cars sold on the platform are in good condition, the company has more than 150 checkpoints inspected by professional automotive experts who recommend the best course of action for customers. These checkpoints include an electronic diagnosis, the car’s mileage and whether the car was previously damaged. The platform’s valuation algorithms suggest a fair market value for vehicles. Based on this, customers can sell the car on the site or directly to KIFAL. The whole process is managed on the platform. An integrated platform “Nobody was aggregating all the value propositions, and we wanted to be the one-stop shop for used car buyers and sellers,” Maane says. KIFAL Auto’s process for buying cars on the platform begins with a consultation where customers are presented with all the vehicles on sale and technical details. After that, an appointment is organised with the seller, and a KIFAL agent. Price negotiation and mutation follow. The process of selling cars involves an inspection, followed by an appraisal and gathering the necessary information. Graduation, commercialisation and technical inspection of the vehicle follow. Customers can evaluate their vehicles online for free using the KIFAL Auto Coast to estimate the value of the vehicle. Cars can be purchased in cash, by check, bank transfers or on credit. Understanding the financial burden cars carry, customers are afforded the opportunity of buying their cars in instalments as well. Crucial takeaways During his foray into the pre-owned automobile industry, Maane imparted invaluable observations gleaned from his experiences. These include: 1. You need to answer your customer’s needs first 2. The quality of whatever you are selling needs to be high 3. Physical contact with customers is critical in building trust 4. Be confident in the quality of what you are selling 5. Establish partnerships that will help grow your business 6. Believe in the potential of what you are doing 7. Building a company is very difficult 8. No one should be able to stop you from achieving your goals 9. Be humble, and 10. Stay close to your market. Finally, Maane says entrepreneurs with aspirations to launch and expand their enterprise in Africa should understand how sustainability affects their sector. The founder suggests that entrepreneurs lean into helping to make their business sustainable according to agreed independent and global environmental standards. Related Reading: Why Ghana Relies Heavily On Used Cars by FESTIVAL GODWIN BOATENG & JACQUELINE M KLOPP Vroom Takes Its Pitch to Buy Your Used Car to the Super Bowl by HANNAH HALL The Nigerian Startup Bringing Clean Mobility to Africa by MICHAEL AKUCHIE Why Africa’s Future Lies in Green Energy by BRIAN BAKKER

Jun 18, 2025

The Journey to Improve Morocco’s Used Car Market while simultaneously ensuring that the environment…
Autochek acquires a majority stake in Egypt’s AutoTager to strengthen Pan-African footprint

/ Acquisition/ 11th April 2023 Autochek, the automotive technology company making car ownership more accessible and affordable across Africa, has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in AutoTager, an Egyptian automotive technology company that makes it easier to find and buy cars, to deepen its presence in North Africa and support the company’s ongoing growth. AutoTager is a venture-backed startup that is removing the friction from the car buying and selling process in Egypt, enabling easier access to vetted vehicles and financing for consumers, and connecting dealers with serious buyers and technology solutions to improve their operations. The company was founded in 2021 by Amr Rezk, a serial entrepreneur that has founded and co-founded multiple successful companies, including Fundseer, a leading private equity GP/LP coordination platform. Amr has deep experience operating in and investing in various geographies across Africa and the Middle East, with a track record of building and sustaining high growth enterprises. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Amr worked with several large institutions including Goldman Sachs, EFG-Hermes and the Qatar Investment Authority where he led the Private Equity and Venture Capital Funds Investments Team. He has an academic background as an economist and holds an MBA from Harvard Business School. The acquisition represents Autochek’s entry into Egypt, which is Africa’s second largest economy and the continent’s second largest automotive market. The country’s strategic geographical position, skilled workforce, large domestic market and the successful reforms undertaken by the country’s government in recent years has enabled dynamic growth and made it one of the largest recipients of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Africa over the past decade. This acquisition also represents the third for Autochek in less than a year and the sixth in under two years, reflecting its emergence as the leading Pan-African automotive technology company. The company now has active operations in 9 countries across East, West and North Africa, with a partner-led footprint of more than 2,000 dealers and workshop locations. This unrivalled footprint enables unparalleled insights into vehicle-related transactions and positions Autochek and its subsidiaries to deliver effective solutions for the needs of a wide range of stakeholders in Africa’s automotive ecosystem. Commenting on the acquisition, Olajide Adamolekun, Group CFO and co-founder of Autochek, said, “Amr’s background and track record is as impressive as it gets and I am delighted to have him on board. His experience will be invaluable as we enter the Egyptian market and continue on our mission to improve the automotive finance value proposition on the continent and catalyse more growth across the automotive ecosystem. There are many parallels between Autochek and AutoTager, and we are looking forward to building on these parallels to deliver more growth and success in the months and years to come.” Amr Rezk, CEO and Founder of AutoTager, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Autochek to pursue several sizable and unique opportunities in the automotive space. Autochek has deep automotive expertise and brings a proven playbook and several all-weather strategies that have been tested and validated in multiple complex high growth markets. The company’s track record of concurrently operating various business models in the automotive space is stellar and provides us with a wide menu of options and cutting-edge tools to offer AutoTager’s customers a truly unique proposition. We have very exciting plans and are confident that the global OEM and financing partnerships that Autochek has secured will also provide us with differentiated access allowing us to lead in our space while targeting high quality top decile returns”. About Autochek Autochek is an automotive technology development company that is building the infrastructure to make car ownership more accessible and affordable in Africa. With active operations in 9 countries across East, West and North Africa, a partner-led retail footprint in over 2,000 dealers and workshop locations, and more than 70 banking partners, Autochek is improving Africa’s automotive finance value proposition by bringing all relevant stakeholders together to enable easier access to more financing options as a catalyst for growth in Africa’s automotive industry. For more information, please visit: www.autochek.africa

Jun 18, 2025

Autochek acquires a majority stake in Egypt’s AutoTager to strengthen Pan-African footprint
How Car Financing is Driving Africa's Mobility, Growth & Empowerment

Car financing is a crucial component of the automotive industry in Africa. With a growing middle class and increased urbanization, more people are looking to buy cars to improve their mobility and quality of life. However, purchasing a vehicle can be expensive, and many people may need more financial resources to buy a car outright. This is where car financing comes in. It allows people to spread the cost of purchasing a vehicle over time, making it more affordable and accessible. In this blog, we will explore the importance of car financing in Africa. 1. Increased access to mobility: Car financing allows more people to access the benefits of car ownership, such as increased mobility, convenience, and independence. This can be especially important on the continent, where public transportation infrastructure may be inadequate or insecure. 2. Boost the economy: Car financing can also positively impact the economy by creating jobs and stimulating economic activity. By enabling more people to buy cars, car financing can drive demand for new and used cars, parts, maintenance services, and other related industries. 3. Improved quality of life: Car ownership can improve people’s quality of life by enabling them to travel more easily and safely, and access services such as healthcare, education, and employment. This can be especially important in rural or remote areas, where people may have limited access to these services. 4. Increased safety and security: Car ownership can also improve safety and security by providing a more secure and reliable mode of transportation. This is particularly important for women and vulnerable populations, who may face increased risks when traveling alone or using informal modes of transportation. 5. Empowerment of individuals: Car financing allows side gig entrepreneurs and business owners to manage their costs and cash flow effectively. Rather than making a large upfront payment for a vehicle, they can opt for manageable monthly installments that align with their budget. This enables them to allocate their available funds towards other business needs and seize new opportunities. In conclusion, car financing plays a significant role in enabling more people to access the benefits of car ownership in Africa. By increasing access to mobility, boosting the economy, improving quality of life, increasing safety and security, and empowering individuals and communities, car financing can help drive progress and development across the continent. Are you interested in car financing? Click www.autochek.africa to see the offers we have for you.

Jun 12, 2025

How Car Financing is Driving Africa's Mobility, Growth & Empowerment
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