The Roam Move bus, designed and assembled locally, offers impressive features to cater to Kenya's specific requirements. With a 200-kilometer range, this 42-seater electric bus is well-suited for urban and intercity transit. Moreover, it boasts adaptability, allowing customization to carry up to 52 passengers. The local assembly process enhances Roam's design flexibility, enabling adjustments such as door placement, increased storage space, preferred window fittings, and the addition of air conditioning to meet varying customer needs.

Roam has already secured orders for 50 Move buses, scheduled for delivery starting in February of the coming year. At full production capacity, Roam anticipates rolling out 40 units each month. Priced at $135,000 per bus, these electric vehicles are competitively priced, making them an attractive option for mass transit providers in Kenya.

The introduction of the Roam Move follows Kenya's ongoing efforts to stimulate EV adoption. Recent legislative changes have zero-rated the supply of electric buses and bicycles while exempting both imported and locally assembled motorcycles from excise duty. Additionally, special power (charging) tariffs have been established to support the EV charging infrastructure. These measures underscore Kenya's commitment to fostering a sustainable and eco-friendly transport ecosystem.

Kenya's electric mobility drive also received a boost with the release of the Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging and Battery Swapping Infrastructure Guidelines 2023 by the country's energy authority. These guidelines aim to expedite the development of public charging stations, a pivotal step in overcoming one of the key challenges hindering EV adoption.

While Kenya is making commendable strides in transitioning from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric alternatives, the broader adoption of electric mobility across Africa faces several challenges. These include inadequate electricity grids, a lack of sufficient charging infrastructure, and the relatively high acquisition costs of EVs. Nonetheless, Roam's Move bus represents a significant step towards a sustainable and electrified future for mass transit in Kenya.

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