Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) has unveiled an innovative electric vehicle designed and built by its students, featuring a self-charging system powered by regenerative braking technology.
The five-seater vehicle, named “Nimde3 Hyiren REV,” was developed within six months by three final-year students pursuing a Bachelor of Technology (BTec) in Automotive Engineering. The project was supervised by Professor Prince Owusu-Ansah, Head of the Automotive and Agricultural Mechanisation Department, with additional support from industry partners.
What makes this vehicle unique is its regenerative braking system, which allows the battery to recharge automatically while the car is in motion. Unlike conventional electric vehicles that rely entirely on external charging stations, this system converts energy generated during braking or deceleration into electrical power, helping to keep the battery charged.
According to the developers, the goal was to create a system that enables continuous charging during operation. This means that whenever the driver slows down or applies the brakes, energy is recovered and used to recharge the battery, reducing the chances of it running low during a journey.
The vehicle is capable of reaching speeds of up to 150 kilometres per hour and can carry five passengers. It was demonstrated to travel from Kumasi to Konongo and back without requiring external charging, highlighting the effectiveness of its energy recovery system.
The electric vehicle was officially unveiled on Saturday, March 28, 2026, during a durbar held to mark the university’s 70th anniversary celebrations. Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor Professor Gabriel Dwomoh noted that the university had taken existing electric vehicle concepts a step further by incorporating regenerative capabilities.
He also commended the collaboration between academia and industry, stating that such partnerships are key to driving innovation and practical solutions.
In addition to the electric vehicle, the university showcased several other innovations, including a multi-purpose rocket stove, a food dryer, a fish smoker, drones, an electronic food warmer, a mini cement mixer, and an air quality monitor.
The development of the “Nimde3 Hyiren REV” highlights the growing role of Ghanaian institutions in advancing sustainable engineering and demonstrates the potential for locally developed solutions in the global shift toward clean energy and electric mobility.
