In a bid to revolutionize transportation in Kenya, Uber has entered the electric bike arena with the launch of Electric Boda, a fleet of electric motorcycles designed for passenger conveyance in Nairobi.
Over the next six months, approximately 3,000 of these eco-friendly bikes will be distributed to riders as part of this initiative.
This significant move aligns Uber with a greener future and offers tangible benefits to both drivers and riders. With Electric Boda, riders can expect a substantial 15 to 20 percent reduction in trip prices, making it one of the most economical ways to travel in Nairobi. Drivers, on the other hand, will experience a 30-35 percent decrease in operational costs.
Despite being the driving force behind this transition, Uber will not manage the day-to-day operations of the fleet. Instead, Greenwheels Africa, an e-mobility company dedicated to electrifying motorcycles, will oversee logistical aspects such as maintenance and charging.
Additionally, they plan to expand charging infrastructure in Nairobi to ten locations by year-end.
The launch of Electric Boda underscores Uber’s commitment to sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions.
It also capitalizes on Kenya’s support for electric motorcycles, championed by President Williams Ruto. Uber’s broader goal is to have 25 percent of its vehicle kilometers driven by electric vehicles by 2030, starting with South Africa.
This development coincides with the global shift away from fossil fuels, particularly in the automotive industry. As electric-powered vehicles gain prominence, Uber has pledged to become a zero-emission company by 2040, marking Electric Boda as its inaugural electric mobility product in Africa.
By Elijah Christopher
