Roam secures deal with Mogo to boost EV transition in Kenya
TLDR
- Roam partners with Mogo to accelerate electric motorcycle adoption in East Africa, specifically targeting Nairobi riders.
- Collaboration promises up to 30% increase in daily earnings for boda boda operators transitioning to electric motorcycles.
- Financing package from Mogo requires KES 25,000 deposit and KES 682 daily repayments for 24 months, inclusive of motorcycle, battery, charger, helmets, and vests.
Roam, a Kenyan-based electric mobility company, has partnered with Mogo, an asset financier operating in East Africa, aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric motorcycles in the region. Initially, this financing package will cater to riders in Nairobi.
The collaboration not only facilitates the transition from conventional motorcycles to electric ones but also promises significant benefits for motorcycle riders, particularly boda boda operators, who are projected to increase their daily earnings by up to 30%.
Positioning itself as the leading provider of electric motorcycles in Nairobi, Roam targets both individual boda boda riders and business-to-business (B2B) service providers. Under the deal, Mogo will extend financing options, requiring a deposit of KES 25,000 ($192) and daily repayments of KES 682 over 24 months. The package includes a motorcycle, battery, and charger, along with two helmets and vests, ensuring riders' safety and convenience.
Key Takeaways
Despite facing numerous challenges such as weak electricity grids, inadequate charging infrastructure, and high acquisition costs, the momentum toward adopting electric vehicles (EVs) in Africa persists. Despite these obstacles, EV startups on the continent have been leading the charge in facilitating this gradual transition. For instance, BasiGo has been pioneering the introduction of commercial electric mass transport buses in Nairobi, Kenya's capital, assisting operators in shifting toward more environmentally friendly transportation options. Meanwhile, Ampersand, headquartered in Rwanda, has been actively serving the burgeoning EV market, particularly in Rwanda and Kenya.
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