Roam Air, the first African-made electric motorcycle, has completed a groundbreaking 6,000-kilometer solar-powered expedition from Nairobi, Kenya to Stellenbosch, South Africa, highlighting Africa’s strides in sustainable transport.
This journey, which lasted 18 days, not only showcased African innovation but also proved the viability of solar energy as a reliable solution for long-distance travel across diverse terrains.
The expedition, starting on 29 September 2024, was a collaborative effort led by Roam, a pioneer in electric mobility, and Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Engineering.
With support from partners like SANEDI, Scatec, Charlie’s Travel, and Throttle Pitstop, the journey aimed to test Roam Air’s capabilities under real-world conditions, demonstrating the potential for clean mobility in sub-Saharan Africa.
A Journey Across Five African Countries
Roam Air traversed Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Botswana before arriving in Stellenbosch on 16 October, coinciding with South Africa’s Transport Month. Along the way, Roam Air set a new record of 113 kilometers on a single battery charge, a significant feat for electric mobility in the region.
The motorcycle’s batteries were powered entirely by solar energy, proving that sustainable technology can meet the challenges of Africa’s diverse landscapes.
On the final leg of the journey, the Roam Air covered 1,000 kilometers in less than 18 hours, from Kimberley to Cape Agulhas, Africa’s southernmost point. This stretch tested the durability of Roam Air’s dual batteries and solar recharging systems, reaffirming the motorcycle’s capacity for long-range travel.
Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
Two Roam Air motorcycles were donated to the Electric Mobility Lab at Stellenbosch University to further research on sustainable transport solutions tailored for Africa. Professor Thinus Booysen, founder of the Electric Mobility Lab, emphasized the importance of this journey in showcasing the potential of electric mobility across the continent.
“This ambitious journey represents a major leap in showcasing the potential of sustainable electric mobility across sub-Saharan Africa,” said Booysen. “Despite challenges like adverse weather and technical hurdles, the resilience of our team and the Roam Air motorcycle highlighted the power of innovation and collaboration.”
The expedition also highlighted the beauty of Africa, with the team encountering natural wonders like Victoria Falls and camping near the Chobe River among hippos, emphasizing the continent’s rich landscapes and cultural diversity.
Roam Air and the Future of Electric Mobility in Africa
The journey marks a historic milestone for Roam Air and positions Africa as a key player in the global push towards sustainable transport. Masa Kituyi, Roam’s Product Owner, who rode alongside Stephan Lacock, described the journey as a testament to African ingenuity and innovation.
“Completing this journey is a historic milestone for Roam Air, proving that African innovation can thrive. The warm welcomes from local communities showed us how excited people are about electric mobility built right here in Africa,” said Kituyi.
Electric Mobility Day at Stellenbosch University
Roam Air’s arrival coincides with Stellenbosch University’s Electric Mobility Day on 18 October, where the Electric Mobility Lab will be officially launched. The event will feature the handover of a retrofitted 65-seater electric bus to Golden Arrow Bus Service and the presentation of Roam Air to the lab. Government officials, industry leaders, and researchers will gather to explore the advancements in electric vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure, celebrating Africa’s leadership in clean energy solutions.
A Journey Documented
The success of this historic journey will be captured in a documentary, highlighting the challenges, innovations, and unforgettable moments, including a surprise encounter with elephants along the Zambezi River. The film will also document the motorcycle’s record-setting battery range and the collaborative efforts that made this expedition possible.
Roam’s solar-powered expedition stands as a symbol of Africa’s growing potential to lead the world in sustainable transport solutions, proving that clean energy can power more than just vehicles—it can power a greener, more sustainable future for the continent.
