Rui Mendes da Silva is the Co‑Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kemet Automotive, a pioneering African electric vehicle company committed to building sustainable mobility solutions for the continent. As a visionary entrepreneur, Rui has positioned Kemet at the forefront of Africa’s automotive innovation, combining design excellence, industrial strategy, and market foresight. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to addressing Africa’s unique mobility challenges while creating scalable, locally manufactured solutions.
Rui’s journey into automotive entrepreneurship began with a passion for technology and sustainable infrastructure. In 2021, he co‑founded Kemet Automotive alongside Nissi Ogulu, aiming to design and manufacture electric vehicles that respond to Africa’s energy and transportation realities. From its early conception, Rui has driven the company’s strategic vision, balancing product innovation, industrial operations, and business development to deliver vehicles that are both environmentally friendly and tailored to local markets.
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Under Rui’s leadership, Kemet has developed electric vehicles designed for durability, efficiency, and style. The company has established production bases in Dakar and Cotonou, enabling Africa‑based manufacturing while creating local employment opportunities. Kemet’s innovative approach integrates advanced EV technology with African design sensibilities, positioning the company as a reference point for sustainable mobility solutions across the continent.
Rui Mendes da Silva’s impact has been recognised internationally. He was featured on the Choiseul 100 Africa list, highlighting the most influential young African business leaders shaping the continent’s economic future. Kemet Automotive has also received widespread attention for securing over 10,000 pre‑orders for its vehicles, signalling strong market validation and investor confidence in Rui’s leadership and vision.
Looking ahead, Rui continues to focus on expanding Kemet’s production capabilities, driving innovation in African mobility, and advancing sustainable transportation infrastructure. Through strategic leadership and forward-looking entrepreneurship, Rui Mendes da Silva is redefining the possibilities of African automotive manufacturing and inspiring a new generation of innovators to build locally and think globally.
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