On May 4, 1996, The Fiji Times featured Kitione Namakadre and his groundbreaking efforts in the realm of electric vehicles, a venture that had the potential to elevate Fiji’s status within the global automotive industry. In a country where technological inventions were seldom acknowledged, Namakadre emerged as a beacon of innovation.
At 49, and with a background as a mechanic and a former soldier in the Fiji Military Forces, Namakadre was resolute in showcasing Fiji’s capabilities. “I think I have the key to the electric car,” he confidently proclaimed, emphasizing that his creation was not just theoretical—it was functional.
Known as “Koti,” Namakadre drew inspiration from the theories of renowned physicist Albert Einstein, yet he firmly believed that practical application was essential for success. His journey into automotive design began in 1987 when he left his decade-long employment to launch Namakadre Mobile Enterprise. There, he set out to build and refine cars from scratch, driven by a desire to innovate rather than languish in inactivity.
By 1983, he had secured the first license to produce vehicles in Fiji from the government, complemented by approval from the Fiji Trade and Investment Board. Despite his progress, he faced significant challenges, particularly in maintaining engine power without needing external recharging. “If the engine didn’t produce its own power, then this car wouldn’t run,” he noted.
Throughout the early 1990s, Namakadre dedicated himself to enhancing the battery, spending between $10,000 to $15,000 on experiments involving volts, resistors, and electric systems. After three years of persistent effort, he developed what he referred to as the “black box.” This breakthrough demonstrated how the battery could supply power to an inverter, which converted it into direct current. In a notable feat, his invention recharged itself without drawing power from an external source, a significant advancement in electric vehicle technology.
Born in Navuniivi Village, Ra, and the third youngest of eight siblings, Namakadre’s educational journey included studying electronics and mechanics at Levuka Technical School followed by apprenticeships at Derrick Technical Institute and Carpenters Motor. He had also served eight months on a peacekeeping mission in Sinai in 1980. At the time of his interview, he resided in Cunningham, Suva, with his wife and child, and harbored aspirations for his invention to penetrate international markets.
He observed that large automotive companies were encountering similar challenges, and he expressed hopes that firms like General Motors Corporation might find his invention valuable for global applications. As a devout Seventh-day Adventist, Namakadre remained optimistic that divine guidance would lead him to the right opportunities, paving the way for his innovative work to gain international recognition. His quest for innovation stands as a reminder of the potential for creativity and technological advancement, even in regions where such efforts are not widely recognized.
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