In Mombasa, the streets are buzzing with a new wave of transportation innovation as electric tuk-tuks begin to gain traction. With nearly 15,000 tuk-tuks operating in the county, stakeholders in the tuk-tuk industry are calling on the local government to create an enabling environment that facilitates the transition from fuel-powered tuk-tuks to electric alternatives.
Mustafa Amin, a tuk-tuk driver, shared his excitement about the shift. “We are happy to ride these tuk-tuks because they don’t make noise, unlike the fuel ones. They also cut the cost of fuel, thus increasing our profit margins,” he stated. For Amin, the financial benefits are significant; he reports saving up to KSh 26,000 a month on fuel expenses. Additionally, with reduced maintenance costs—thanks to the electric vehicle’s design that eliminates the need for frequent oil changes—he can now afford to buy meat for his family three times a week.
The Piaggio electric tuk-tuks, launched recently in Mombasa, promise impressive features, including a one-year warranty and a battery capacity that can cover up to 120 kilometers on a single charge. David Chesoni, Managing Director at Car & General, emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step towards realizing the Mombasa county government’s vision of a green city. “The transition from fuel tuk-tuks to electric ones will not happen overnight, but we are making the right steps to ensure a clean environment and save owners money,” he explained.
Chesoni noted that establishing the necessary infrastructure is vital for a successful transition. “We must have good infrastructure to support the electric tuk-tuks for the complete transition,” he asserted. The challenges of transitioning are underscored by the existing need for more charging stations; while Mombasa currently has 20, more public charging facilities will be necessary for wider adoption.
George Rubiri, General Manager at Car and General, highlighted the benefits of electric tuk-tuks. Designed for lower service frequency than traditional fuel vehicles, these electric options promise increased profit margins for operators. The tuk-tuk industry in Mombasa is already worth KSh 10 billion, with each vehicle generating a gross income of about KSh 2,500 daily. This amounts to approximately KSh 750 million monthly and over KSh 10 billion annually for the local economy.
The electric tuk-tuks come in two designs: one featuring a fixed battery that can be charged anywhere, and another with a battery swap system, thanks to a partnership with Shell. This allows drivers to quickly exchange depleted batteries for charged ones, much like refueling a traditional tuk-tuk.
For over two decades, tuk-tuks have transformed lives in Mombasa, providing employment and a means of transporting goods. The introduction of electric models not only offers a quieter ride but also enhances the passenger experience, allowing for activities such as reading during journeys due to the reduced noise levels.
Mombasa County’s Trade, Tourism, and Culture Executive, Mohamed Osman, affirmed the government’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for tuk-tuk operators. “Car and General are our partners, and we will work together to ensure good policies that create a win-win situation for both the businessmen and the county,” he said.
Kipevu MCA Leila Nyache, who chairs the Mombasa County Assembly committee on climate change, echoed the urgency of this transition. “The world is moving towards electric vehicles, and Mombasa cannot be left behind. Emissions from fuel contribute to the greenhouse effect, which disrupts weather patterns,” she noted. The county assembly is dedicated to combating climate change, aiming to prevent the devastating effects already being felt in other parts of the country.
As Mombasa embraces electric tuk-tuks, the initiative marks not only a shift in transportation but a significant step toward sustainable urban development and environmental responsibility. The ongoing transition promises to enhance the quality of life for drivers and passengers alike, all while contributing to the fight against climate change.
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