For a couple of decades, climate change has been a topic of general public interest.
As a result, innovations towards engines that do not emit waste products have emerged in the recent past. In response to the go-green campaign, eWAKA has launched an electric ‘bodaboda‘.
This Africa’s new market entrant not only introduces sustainable mobility options but also seeks to address gaps in the expanding transportation sector.
Typically for an African EV startup, one would expect them to launch one model a year. However, eWAKA has reportedly beaten the odds and launched a number of electric vehicle options simultaneously despite being in early fund raising stages.
They include electric bodas, which is the backbone of Africa’s local delivery sector. Additionally, they also have rideshare options including electric kick start scooters and bicycles available on demand.
The opportunity in transport sector
According to company’s CEO Mr. Celeste Vogel, there is tremendous growth potential in providing Kenya and the region with increased access to electric vehicle options.
He added that eWAKA’s planned services will address frustrating and disruptive mobility experiences. This will be achieved by offering a sustainable solution that will increase connectivity, improve efficiencies and offer safe environmentally-friendly transportation.
The CEO further disclosed that they have signed new customer agreements in 2022. The move expands their offering to secure a strategic investor to accelerate eWAKA’s growth plans that include setting up a local assembly facility.
eWAKA’s offering consists of a comprehensive line of electric vehicles for multiple customer segments in different sectors, including delivery companies, healthcare providers and hotels to universities.
eWAKA’s sustainable response to the specific transport and delivery challenges of ‘the last mile’ will enhance the financial and operational performance of transportation companies.
Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) data shows rapid growth in Kenya’s annual registration for motorcycles and three-wheeler. KNBS 2021 Economic Survey show there was a 6% increase in the number of newly registered motorcycle units. There was a rise from 327,176 in 2019 to 346,729 units in 2020.
The current acquisition cost of motorcycles averages at KES 60,000.
eWAKA’s strategic development plans include establishing an African production facility to assemble components of the highest standards provided by international manufacturing partners.
eWAKA pros
These mobility options will also decrease pollution such as greenhouse gases, CO2 and noise. Affordability is achieved through low electricity prices as compared to fuel and off-grid solar power solutions.
Again, the overall maintenance costs of eWAKA solution will be low.
eWAKA’s will be offering clients robust IT capabilities to support transportation management efforts through an online and mobile-based app.
This addon-on enables real-time tracking of vehicles, performance metric monitoring and geofencing for remote immobilization if needed for security options.
