Roam, an electric motorcycle manufacturer based in Nairobi, has rolled out a new model designed to significantly cut charging times, delivering over one kilometre of range for every minute plugged in. The development marks a notable step forward in addressing one of the key hurdles slowing Africa’s transition to electric mobility.
The newly introduced Roam Air Gen 3 features an upgraded battery system capable of charging from 20% to 80% in under 40 minutes. With a 2.2 kW charging capacity, the company claims it offers the quickest charging performance in its class, specifically tailored for high-demand commercial riders in the boda boda sector.
Electric motorcycles have historically struggled to gain widespread traction across African cities, largely due to sluggish charging speeds, limited infrastructure, and concerns over their ability to endure tough road conditions. Roam’s latest offering seeks to confront these issues head-on, combining accelerated charging with a sturdier frame and a battery built to handle demanding environments.
According to Roam’s Country Manager, Habib Lukaya, the Gen 3 model was engineered with riders’ everyday realities in mind, from lengthy charging times and high operating costs to theft risks and rough terrain. He noted that each feature is intended to keep riders on the road longer while boosting their earnings.
The motorcycle’s battery delivers a range of up to 80 kilometres on a full charge and is encased in industrial-grade aluminium to enhance heat management and withstand impact. With an IP67 rating, it can endure submersion in water without losing functionality, a useful trait in flood-prone or rugged regions.
Its frame has undergone extensive testing, enduring 200,000 vibration cycles under loads of up to 300 kilograms to simulate prolonged commercial use. Roam adds that 98% of the chassis is robotically welded, aiming for improved consistency and durability compared to many low-cost imports.
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In terms of security and monitoring, the battery comes fitted with GPS tracking and integrates with a mobile app, enabling riders and fleet operators to keep tabs on location, battery condition, and performance in real time. This feature not only enhances operational oversight but also helps deter theft.
To ease concerns around upfront investment, Roam is offering a 100,000-kilometre warranty covering major components, including the battery. The bike also supports a layered charging network, ranging from home setups to Roam hubs and fast-charging stations built to IEC Type 6 standards, reflecting an attempt to align with global systems while accommodating local infrastructure limitations.
Motorcycles remain central to urban transport across sub-Saharan Africa, moving millions of people and goods each day. As pressure mounts to cut fuel costs and emissions, firms like Roam are in a race to produce electric alternatives capable of matching the reliability and cost-effectiveness of traditional petrol-powered bikes.
