The move is part of the company’s commitment to making its global platform emissions-free by 2040.
The new service, called Electric Boda, will initially consist of 3,000 bikes in Nairobi, with plans underway to expand the service to other cities.
The electric bikes are powered by lithium-ion batteries and have a range of up to 60 kilometers. They are also equipped with safety features such as headlights, taillights, and mirrors.
Uber drivers who use electric bikes will benefit from lower running costs and reduced emissions. The company estimates that the electric bikes will save drivers up to 30-35% on fuel costs.
The launch of Electric Boda is a major step forward for Uber in its efforts to make its platform more sustainable. The company has also committed to investing in electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Kenya.
The launch of Electric Boda is also seen as a boost to Kenya’s green economy.
“We are doing our part to aid the transition to eco-friendly mobility products and to support national sustainability objectives. The launch of Electric Boda will provide Kenyans with one of the most affordable ways to move from one place to another, with prices 15-20% below the price of our existing product,” Imran Manji, Uber’s head of East Africa, said during the launch.
Two Rivers International & Innovation Centre (TRIFIC SEZ), a unique services-oriented business park within Nairobi’s diplomatic zone, has secured a $47.5 million investment from Vantage Capital, Africa’s largest mezzanine fund manager.
South African investment firm Edge Growth has successfully raised $2.1 million through the ASISA Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) Fund to further empower growth-stage small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Uganda Telecommunications Corporation Limited (UTel) is poised to receive a significant financial boost with a $225 million investment from Rowad Capital Commercial (RCC) LLC.
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