We didn’t just save money, we stepped into the future. And if we had to choose again, we would choose an electric car. We thank the KyrSEFF program for the support and the grant.
In August 2025, the Bekaev family from Novopavlovka decided to give up their gasoline-powered car and switch to a BYD electric vehicle. The purchase was financed with a five-year loan, and a portion of the cost was compensated with a grant. The family has been a FINCA Bank client for 10 years and received a 10% grant from the loan amount free of charge under the KyrSEFF program. The decision was made confidently:
“We trusted the KyrSEFF program immediately. Everything was explained clearly and honestly, so we went ahead, applied, and never regretted it,” says Erkinay Bekaева.
Previously, her husband worked in Yandex.Taxi using a Hyundai Sonata, spending around 1,500 KGS per day on fuel. After switching to an electric vehicle, their expenses dropped significantly. The BYD proved to be comfortable to use and much more cost-efficient.
“My husband noticed the difference right away – the savings were huge, visible even in the first month,” Erkinay shares.
The main result of the transition was a reduction in monthly expenses. While fuel used to cost far more, the family now spends only 1,500–2,000 KGS per month on electricity. In addition to the financial benefit, the Bekaevs highlight the comfort of driving an EV: no engine vibration, smooth motion, and overall a softer ride than the Sonata.
“I drive as well, and the difference is obvious. The car is quieter, smoother, easier to handle, and we don’t have to stop at gas stations anymore – that’s another bonus,” Erkinay Bekaeva says.
Switching to an electric vehicle is not just about saving money – it’s also about improving air quality. EVs produce no exhaust emissions, contribute no smog, and require no fuel combustion.
Their example inspired neighbors and relatives, especially those who work in taxi services. Seeing real numbers and savings, many began considering an electric car as an alternative to fuel-powered vehicles.
“We live in a village where many heat with coal, and the air is heavy in winter. Knowing that your car doesn’t produce emissions feels good it’s a contribution to health. We tell everyone that it’s profitable, eco-friendly and convenient. If you have the chance, go electric – it’s a different quality of life,” Erkinay Bekaeva explains.
The Bekaev family’s experience shows that electric transport is becoming accessible and cost-effective not only in large cities, but also in rural regions of Kyrgyzstan. Grant support, reduced operating costs, and ease of use make purchasing an electric vehicle a smart solution for anyone wanting to lower expenses and care for the environment.
“We didn’t just save money, we stepped into the future. And if we had to choose again, we would choose an electric car. We thank the KyrSEFF program for the support and the grant,” she adds.
KyrSEFF operates with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and thanks to such programs, the transition to clean transport is no longer theory it is a real, accessible choice for people.
The story of the Bekaev family is an example of how new technologies become part of everyday life. An electric car is no longer a rarity – it is a vehicle that helps the family earn money and spend less on energy.
