A little over two years ago we told you about Roam Electric and the simple model they market, the Roam Air, with which they intend to motorize a large part of the African people, offering them a real mobility alternative.
Using a common base, and with a price of only between 1,500 and 2,000 dollars, about 1400/1900 euros at the exchange rate, they intend to offer a range of different models with which to adapt to the needs of the place.
Now, in association with the University of Stellenbosch, two Roam Air units travel, from September 29 to October 18, from Nairobi to South Africa (about 6,000 kilometers), using only solar energy to charge the batteries. Additionally, the expedition will test the Roam Air drive system, dual portable charging batteries and the sustainable solar charging solution.
Roam Electric is committed to new forms of mobility on the African continent
Researchers at the university’s Electric Mobility Laboratory are eager to see how Roam Air performs in long-distance conditions, well beyond its urban endeavors. The project will also provide valuable information on the future of electric mobility in Africa.
The expedition covers countries such as Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Botswanabefore arriving in Stellenbosch on 18 October. Two vehicles equipped with solar charging equipment accompany the motorcycles, ensuring that the Roam Electric mounts’ batteries are fully charged with solar energy throughout the expedition.
The two chosen to face this challenge have been the doctoral candidate Stephan Lacock, and the owner of Roam Electric, Masa Kituyi. In addition to riding the two bikes throughout the entire course, they will collect data on their real-world performance on various terrains. “This journey is not just about whether it can be done, it is about demonstrating that African innovation, powered by solar energy, can overcome the continent’s unique challenges”Lacock said.
Masa Kituyi, commented: “This trip demonstrates Kenya’s ability to locally design and manufacture world-class electric vehicles for African conditions. “It is a testament to local innovation, leading the way in sustainable mobility solutions.”
The project aims to highlight the potential of solar-powered transportation in Africa and demonstrate that electric motorcycles can complete long-distance journeys using renewable energy.
