This rugged two-wheeler might not win any beauty contests but it could change the world by being the first electric bike built in Africa with the idea of being so affordable and practical it could transform local transport. It’s been created by a pioneering company called Opibus and is the result of a research project by one of Sweden’s top universities. It’s being developed and built in Kenya and is expected to cost US$ 1300 (EUR 960) when it goes on sale next year.
And, with a claimed range of up to 200 km and a top speed of 90 kph – yet, with running costs half
that of conventional petrol bikes, it has the potential to make a huge impact. Opibus
were set up in 2017 in Sweden with a mission to create new electric mobility
solutions for emerging markets. An HQ was then established in Kenya, chosen as
it is not only the fastest growing nation in sub-Saharan Africa but because it
already imports a high number of used petrol/diesel vehicles.
Opibus’s first products were electric
conversions of conventional 4x4s, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser and Land
Rover Defender, which are already on sale, followed by electric bus
conversions. Now the company have unveiled their first electric motorcycle
which, instead of being a conversion, is an all-new design. Among its key
features are two large removable batteries to ensure minimal downtime. Instead
of recharging, batteries are simply swapped at charging stations.
The layout of the bike is rudimentary and
robust to make it as affordable and practical as possible – the twin shock rear
suspension and large seat, for example, is to allow a decent payload capacity
of 150 kg. There is a slick digital display and an LED headlight, though, and
the ability to recharge it from a domestic socket.
