Riding the Future: The Rise of Electric Motorbikes in Kenya

The rise of electric motorbikes in Kenya is transforming the transportation landscape, with companies like Roam leading the charge. As urbanization increases and environmental concerns grow, electric motorcycles are becoming an attractive alternative to traditional petrol-powered bikes. This blog post explores the factors contributing to this trend, particularly focusing on Roam’s electric bikes and their impact on the Kenyan market.

The Growing Demand for Electric Motorbikes

Kenya has witnessed a significant increase in the use of electric motorbikes, driven by several key factors:

  • Environmental Awareness: With rising concerns about air pollution and climate change, many Kenyans are looking for sustainable transportation options. Electric motorbikes produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them an eco-friendly choice.
  • Cost Efficiency: Electric bikes offer substantial savings on fuel and maintenance costs. For instance, operating an electric motorcycle can reduce costs by up to 75% compared to petrol bikes due to lower energy expenses and fewer mechanical issues.
  • Government Support: The launch of Kenya’s National E-Mobility Policy has created a favorable environment for electric vehicles. This policy promotes local production and assembly of electric vehicles, encouraging companies like Roam to expand their operations in the country.

Roam’s Electric Bikes: A Local Solution

Roam has emerged as a pioneer in the Kenyan electric motorcycle market with its flagship model, the Roam Air. This bike is specifically designed for African conditions, featuring:

  • Removable Batteries: The Roam Air is equipped with a dual battery system that allows users to swap out batteries quickly, minimizing downtime. Each battery provides a range of approximately 75 km, making it suitable for daily commutes and commercial use.
  • Affordability: Roam’s pricing strategy aims to make electric bikes accessible to a wider audience. By partnering with financing platforms like M-Kopa, Roam enables riders to lease bikes at reduced upfront costs, further driving adoption among those who may be deterred by high initial investments.
  • Local Manufacturing: The production of Roam’s bikes in Nairobi not only supports local employment but also ensures that the motorcycles are tailored to meet the specific needs of Kenyan riders.

Partnerships Enhancing Accessibility

Roam’s collaboration with companies like Bolt and M-Kopa is crucial in expanding the reach of electric motorbikes:

  • Bolt’s Fleet Expansion: Bolt plans to introduce 5,000 electric motorbikes over the next three years, leveraging M-Kopa’s financing solutions to make these bikes more affordable for drivers. This initiative is expected to save drivers around 40% on total ownership costs compared to petrol motorcycles.
  • M-Kopa Financing Solutions: M-Kopa has already financed two-thirds of all electric bikes on Kenyan roads. Their lease-to-own model allows riders without bank accounts to access electric motorcycles easily, promoting broader financial inclusion.

The Future of Electric Motorbikes in Kenya

The future looks promising for electric motorbikes in Kenya. Industry experts predict that by 2040, electric two-wheelers could account for 50-70% of all motorcycle sales in the country. As more companies enter the market and government policies continue to support sustainable transport solutions, the transition towards electrification will likely accelerate.

The rise of electric motorbikes in Kenya represents a significant shift towards sustainable transportation. Companies like Roam are not only providing innovative solutions tailored for local needs but also contributing to economic empowerment through job creation and affordable mobility options. As awareness grows and infrastructure improves, electric motorbikes are set to become a common sight on Kenyan roads, paving the way for a greener future.


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

×

Hi !

Click one of our contacts below to chat on WhatsApp

× Need Help ?