Roam, the Nairobi-based electric vehicle maker, has officially launched the Generation 2 Roam Air, an improved electric motorcycle developed with input from boda boda riders across the country.
The upgraded model boasts over 40 improvements, ranging from performance and comfort to durability and local manufacturing, all tailored to the unique demands of Kenya’s motorcycle taxi industry.
The Generation 2 Roam Air was fully designed and developed by Roam’s in-house team and has undergone rigorous testing across both urban and rural environments.
It is a strategic evolution of Roam’s flagship e-motorcycle, now lighter, more durable, and better adapted to the rigors of daily use by professional riders.
“We didn’t just update a few features; we rethought the motorcycle with input from the people who use it every day,” said Monicah Mwalo, Roam’s Production Manager. “This version is grounded in Kenyan realities.”
As per data from the United Nations, more than 3 million boda boda riders in Kenya help sustain the livelihoods of around 5 million individuals.
Recognizing their vital role in the economy, Roam’s revamped model directly responds to their economic and practical challenges.
Enhanced Performance and Security
The new Roam Air is one kilogram lighter than its predecessor, resulting in improved battery efficiency and easier handling.
A reinforced frame now supports up to 240 kilograms, up from 220 kg in the previous version, offering greater stability and load capacity on Kenya’s varied roads.
To combat theft and simplify the charging process, Roam introduced a lockable, single-door battery compartment, addressing a key concern raised by riders during field trials.
Durability has been enhanced with better rust protection, increased waterproofing for electronics and storage, and simplified cabling for maintenance. Riders will also notice improved lighting systems and mechanical refinements built for Kenya’s tough conditions.
As part of Roam’s commitment to local manufacturing, 36% of the new motorcycle’s components, such as body panels, wire harnesses, connectors, and the battery compartment, are now locally produced.
This not only supports Kenya’s growing clean-tech sector but also reduces maintenance costs and shortens supply chains.
Roam’s Generation 2 model also qualifies for Kenya’s Duty Remission Scheme (DRS) under Legal Notice 112, which incentivizes local assembly by waiving import duties for manufacturers that localize at least 11 key parts.
Roam has gone well beyond that with over 40 locally manufactured components.
Early adopters are already seeing the economic benefits. Joel Amboka, a boda boda rider in Nairobi, shared his experience, saying, “Before Roam, most of my money went to petrol and repairs,” he said. “Now I charge at home, spending under KES 200, and ride all day. It’s made a real difference in my income.”
