Roam, a pioneer in electric mobility in Africa, has just made history. The company’s flagship motorcycle, the Roam Air, completed a 6,000 km (3,728 mi) journey across Africa, powered entirely by solar energy. Over 17 days, the journey traversed Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Botswana before concluding in Stellenbosch, South Africa, showcasing the durability and sustainability of electric vehicles designed for African terrains. The ride began on September 29, 2024, and culminated on October 16.
Roam’s historic expedition was a technical test and a powerful statement about future mobility in Africa. Accompanied by two solar-powered support vehicles, the team tackled some of the continent’s most rugged landscapes—ranging from remote dirt tracks to highways—without relying on conventional power grids.
The Roam Air’s batteries were charged exclusively via solar energy throughout the journey, proving the viability of renewable energy for long-distance travel in regions with sparse infrastructure. This innovation demonstrated that solar-powered transport is not only possible but practical for Africa’s unique needs, and it could play a critical role in the continent’s transition to sustainable mobility.
The African EV market is projected to grow significantly, with an estimated size of $15.80 billion in 2024, expected to reach $25.40 billion by 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.20%. This growth is driven by increasing investment in the automotive industry, rising EV sales, and supportive government policies promoting the development of electric vehicles. Several African countries, such as Cape Verde, have set ambitious electrification goals, aiming for 100% electrification of passenger cars by 2035. Additionally, UNEP predicts a surge in electric two- and three-wheeler sales across the continent by 2050.
The focus on electrification is creating new opportunities for EV manufacturers, leading to a wave of innovations, product launches, and significant investments. For example, Ford’s South African unit plans to invest $281 million in hybrid vehicle production, while the Jac T9 electric bakkie is set to launch in 2024. This surge is further supported by South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan, which aims to facilitate the transition to green energy, including electric vehicle adoption, over the next five years.
.jpg)
The expedition set several milestones during the trip, including:
This expedition was a collaborative effort between Roam and Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Engineering. Support from partners such as SANEDI (South African National Energy Development Institute), Scatec, Charlie’s Travel, and Throttle Pitstop was instrumental in overcoming the logistical and technical challenges of the journey.
To support ongoing research and innovation in sustainable mobility, Roam donated two Roam Air motorcycles to the Electric Mobility Lab at Stellenbosch University. This lab will focus on developing tailored transport solutions for Africa, a crucial step in the journey toward greener cities and communities across the continent.
Roam Air is a product of African engineering, designed specifically to meet the continent’s diverse transport needs. Developed in Nairobi, the motorcycle was rigorously tested during the journey, which spanned remote villages and bustling cities, showcasing both the beauty of Africa’s landscapes and the practicality of the Roam Air.
The expedition highlighted Africa’s natural wonders, from Victoria Falls to the Chobe River, while underscoring the need for sustainable solutions to protect them. Masa Kituyi, Roam’s Product Owner and one of the riders shared his thoughts on the journey:
"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."
The completion of this journey coincides with Stellenbosch University’s Electric Mobility Day on October 18, 2024. At this event, stakeholders will celebrate the launch of the Electric Mobility Lab and advancements in green transport solutions. The day will feature a presentation from Roam Air and the handover of a 65-seater retrofitted electric bus to the Golden Arrow Bus Service, illustrating the range of innovations happening in Africa’s EV sector.
Roam’s solar-powered journey is set to be documented in a film that will capture the triumphs, challenges, and memorable encounters—like a surprise meeting with elephants by the Zambezi River.
The journey also highlights the economic and environmental benefits of electric mobility. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels, EVs) like the Roam Air offer a tangible solution to the urgent issue of climate change while significantly lowering operating costs for users in the long run.
Roam’s focus extends beyond motorcycles. Their Roam Transit division is developing electric buses, offering a scalable solution to reduce emissions in African public transport. They also provide Roam Energy & Charging, distributing energy and charging solutions, and Roam Canopy, a software segment that includes fleet management tools.
This historic journey may be just the beginning for Roam as the company continues to push the boundaries of electric mobility. With plans to expand to other markets globally, Roam is on track to revolutionize transport across Africa and beyond.
