‘Ride electric’ the new ride in town. Nairobi’s busy streets filled with matatus and buses has new wheels in town.
On Wednesday , Roam company launched its first electric mass transit bus in Nairobi.
The unveiling of the bus took place at green park terminus in the city. The bus is painted a bright blue color and written ‘ride electric’ and ‘Africa’s future is electric’ on the side.
Qualities of the bus
The electric bus accommodates 77 passengers. In addition to that, it has a charging port and also a range of 360 kilometer per charge thanks to a 384 KWH battery.
The bus , which was built in Nairobi, will run along Mombasa road, Waiyaki way and the Thika superhighway.
Julius Opio, chairperson of Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry {KCCI}, stated during the launch on Wednesday, that the launch should pave way for more EV buses to help Kenya’s transportation sector.
According to Opio, KCCI has raised awareness of e-mobility through discussion with stakeholders.
“One of the things we have been engaging in the former government is on physical and non-physical incentives that we would like to see the government offer our members . we want to see the mass production of electric vehicles and motorcycles,” he said.
He called on the government to address the regulation of tax tariffs and infrastructure developments.
Roam motors is also expected to launch an electric motorbike called ‘roam air’ on the road by 2023. The motorbike is expected to have a range of 200km and a top speed of 90km per hour.
In addition to that, as part of the partnership program, Citi Hoppa will provide buses between the city center and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, while East Shuttle will provide buses along the Eastland routes.
Green revolution
Since a large percentage of Kenya uses matatus that Emmitt smoke to the world and also have been termed as dangerous on the streets. The bus has been listed as environmental friendly since it is not harmful to the environment and also safe for everyone. Additionally, it has been designed to be inclusive for all, it can accommodate people on wheel chairs and the elderly.
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