Bolt and M-KOPA Launch 5,000 Electric Motorcycles in Kenya to Help Drivers Maximize Earnings

Bolt, in partnership with M-KOPA, a Nairobi fintech platform, has launched electric motorcycles to maximize earnings for drivers. Both companies will introduce more than 5,000 new electric bikes (e-bikes) in the East African country over the next 3 years. This will ensure flexible digital micropayments for drivers.

Bolt claims the partnership is part of its long-term sustainability strategy, as motorcycles make less noise and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

This partnership will be one out of many Bolt has made with an electric financing company. The ride-hailing company is also in partnership with several companies like Roam Electric and Ampersand, both electric vehicle producers.

Bolt Strategic Partnership Aligns To Its Mission To Reduce Toxic Emissions

Bolt Regional Director for RideHailing Operations in Africa and International Markets, Caroline Wanjihia, stated that the company is excited about the strategic partnerships.

She said, “We are excited to introduce our electric bike fleet, in partnership with M-KOPA, as part of our ongoing efforts to support and empower our drivers. This marks a significant milestone in Bolt’s mission to provide sustainable and financially viable transportation solutions in Kenya.”

With zero emissions and lower maintenance requirements compared to traditional vehicles, the two companies expect the arrangement to increase driver earnings. They did this by minimizing expenses and contributing to environmental sustainability efforts in the country.

Additionally, Bolt has been supporting eco-friendly efforts in Africa through investments in projects focused on renewable energy and resource conservation since 2019.

The company previously introduced Bolt Green, a new ride category on its platform operating in Nairobi with hybrid and electric cars, in 2022. The new ride was to provide environmentally friendly rides as part of efforts to reduce its carbon footprint in the country.

Bolt Partnership With M-KOPA and Others

In Kenya, M-KOPA is the largest financier of e-bikes. The company is responsible for financing about two-thirds of the electric bikes in Kenya. Through the partnership, Bolt intends to leverage M-Kopa’s fintech platform to make acquiring electric motorbikes affordable to prospective drivers.

Also, by sponsoring the cost of the motorcycles, it will enable drivers to choose an electric motorbike at a price equal to or below that of a comparable petrol alternative. The biggest issue with electric motorcycles is the buying price. Roam Electric and Ampersand bikes cost between Ksh 240,000 and 250,000.

Conclusion

Bolt, M-Kopa, Roam Electric, and Ampersand stated that electric bikes can help lower operational costs by up to 40%. Also, this is an effective way to maximize revenue for boda-boda riders in business.

Finally, this initiative reveals Bolt’s commitment to driving positive change and fostering economic empowerment within its driver community.

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