Vehicle ownership for SMEs is perceived as a sign of growth that would help the business take control of their transport needs, improve efficiency and help them scale with confidence but at times, it comes with an unforeseen financial strain. Already, the cost of owning a vehicle in Kenya remains extremely high, especially for SMEs that are already juggling operational expenses, taxes, inflation, and limited access to credit.
Why is It Costly for SMEs to Own Vehicles in Kenya?
First, the average cost of acquiring a new commercial vehicle in Kenya is significantly high. This is largely due to high import duties, VAT, excise tax, and registration costs. According to industry data, import taxes alone can push the final vehicle price up by 50% or more, especially for second-hand units sourced from countries like Japan or the UK. This makes it extremely difficult for startups and small businesses to afford the upfront cost of owning a vehicle.
- Cash Flow Limitations
Unlike large corporations with diversified income streams and financial buffers, many SMEs operate with tight cash flows. For instance, investing Ksh 1–5 million or more in a vehicle can stall other critical areas of the business, such as stock replenishment, salaries, rent, or marketing. Tying up all that capital in one asset can create serious liquidity issues.
- Limited Access to Affordable Credit
Even when SMEs try to turn to banks for financial assistance, many are faced with strict loan requirements, such as years of audited accounts, collateral, or high interest rates. This limits their ability to leverage traditional loans to fund major purchases like vehicles or equipment.
- Ongoing Operational Costs
Vehicle ownership doesn’t stop at purchase. SMEs must also budget for:
- Insurance premiums
- Routine maintenance
- Fuel costs
- Spare parts and repairs
- Government licensing and inspection fees
These recurring costs can easily spiral, especially for businesses relying on older, less fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Depreciation Risk
Unlike investments that appreciate over time, vehicles start to lose value the moment they are purchased. This makes vehicles a risky capital expenditure for small businesses that might need to resell later or replace them after a few years.
What next?
To navigate these challenges and still meet their transport needs, many SMEs in Kenya are turning to smarter, more flexible financing options—solutions that ease the financial burden of vehicle acquisition without compromising their operational stability. One such solution that has proven particularly beneficial is Vehicle and Asset Finance (VAF), a tailored offering by Stanbic Bank Kenya that allows SMEs to access vehicles and equipment through structured financing rather than paying the full cost upfront.
Stanbic Bank’s VAF product is designed to unlock business potential by making essential assets more accessible. Through this facility, SMEs can acquire vehicles for business use with up to 90% of the cost financed, allowing them to preserve cash flow for other critical areas like inventory, staffing, and growth initiatives. Instead of stretching already limited resources to make a lump-sum payment, SMEs can spread the cost over a period of up to 60 months, with affordable monthly installments that align with their income cycles.
What makes this financing option particularly appealing is the flexibility and accessibility it offers. The product supports the acquisition of both new and certified used vehicles, whether for commercial delivery, logistics, or business travel needs.
For SMEs looking to scale without straining their capital, Stanbic Bank’s Vehicle and Asset Finance presents a timely and practical solution. In today’s tough economic climate, smart financing is a strategic advantage. If you’re running a business and thinking of expanding your fleet or replacing an aging vehicle, now might be the time to explore what Stanbic Bank has to offer.