Growing Adoption of Electric Mobility
With more than 500 electric bikes in Kenya, ride-hailing company Bolt has marked a significant milestone in its sustainability efforts. The rapid adoption of these eco-friendly bikes, which transitioned from a pilot program to full-scale implementation in December 2024, highlights the growing demand for cost-effective and sustainable transport solutions in Kenya.
By the end of 2025, Bolt aims to have at least 1,500 electric bikes in Kenya, significantly increasing the availability of these environmentally friendly vehicles to meet market demand.
A Step Toward Affordable & Green Transport
According to Dimmy Kanyankole, General Manager of Bolt Kenya and Tanzania, "This milestone represents significant progress toward achieving affordable and sustainable mobility in Kenya. Expanding our fleet of electric bikes in Kenya not only promotes eco-friendly transport but also provides riders with a cost-effective way to earn a living."
These bikes offer lower maintenance costs and reduced fuel expenses compared to conventional motorcycles, making them an attractive option for boda boda riders across the country.
Strengthening EV Infrastructure in Nairobi
Bolt's initiative has also tested the resilience of Kenya's battery-swapping infrastructure, emphasizing the urgent need for more battery swap stations and charging points, particularly in Nairobi. As more riders transition to electric bikes in Kenya, investments in charging infrastructure will be crucial to sustaining this growth.
Kanyankole added, "This is a promising indicator for the future of electric mobility not only in Kenya but also across Africa. With the right infrastructure and partnerships, we can further scale these initiatives, reducing costs and emissions while enhancing sustainable urban transport."
Paving the Way for Africa’s EV Revolution
Bolt’s achievement in Kenya highlights the potential for similar projects across other African nations. As the company expands its electrification efforts, the success of electric bikes in Kenya could serve as a model for sustainable transport solutions in other regions.
Kenya’s government and private sector are already working together to support electric mobility, with policies aimed at reducing import taxes on electric vehicles and encouraging local assembly of EVs. As these efforts continue, more Kenyans could soon access affordable and sustainable transport alternatives.
With the rising adoption of electric bikes in Kenya, do you think this trend will reshape urban transport? Share your thoughts in the comments!
For more updates on electric mobility and vehicle trends, visit Auto24 Kenya.
