Kenyan startup Roam, previously Opibus, has launched a new electric mass transit bus, the Roam Rapid, which is specifically designed to address the unique challenges of public transport in Nairobi and Africa as a whole.
Founded
in 2017, and rebranded earlier this year, Roam is the leading provider of electric vehicles designed and
manufactured locally. Its vision is to create reliable and cost effective
products designed for the pan-African mass market.
The
company raised US$7.5 million in
equity and grant funding late last year to help it
scale its operations, and it has now launched the Roam Rapid, the first
electric bus in Kenya designed for mass transit. With a capacity of 90
passengers, the bus allows for ample room, efficient boarding and disembarking
of commuters, and both seating and standing areas.
Furthermore,
it features priority seats for the elderly and people with limited mobility,
extended legroom, designated areas for wheelchairs, and a low-floor entry for
easy access. Roam aspires to create a new perception on public transport
vehicles by providing a mobility solution that is inclusive, modern, efficient
and sustainable.
Roam
Rapid also has zero tailpipe emissions and low noise pollution, paving the way
for the next generation public transport system in Africa. It has an extended
range that enables the operators to run their buses for a full day without
worrying about charging. The bus is equipped with a 384-kWh battery pack that
allows for a range of 360 kilometres. It also has the ability to fully charge
in less than two hours through DC charging ports.
“The
solution Roam brings to the Kenyan market enables us to move people safely,
comfortably and timely in both a sustainable and affordable way. The bus is
designed not only to increase comfort and lower cost but more importantly
focuses on the well-being of the population through reduced noise pollution and
eliminating local emissions, improving air quality for the cities across
Africa,” said Dennis Wakaba, project coordinator at Roam.
Source: disrupt-africa