Bolt, a popular ride-hailing platform, has unveiled its new electric tricycle service in Lagos as part of a strategy to cut carbon emissions, promote sustainable mobility, and reduce the impact of rising fuel costs. This initiative also aims to alleviate drivers’ financial burdens and increase transportation access in less-served parts of the city. The service is being launched in partnership with SGX, a company specialising in the production of electric vehicles for last-mile transportation.
Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director of Rides Operations for Africa, stated that the initiative is designed to empower drivers by lowering their operational costs and providing clear paths to vehicle ownership. The new service will allow drivers to obtain electric tricycles through a lease-to-own model, starting with an upfront payment of just N208,000. After two years of consistent use, drivers will fully own their vehicles. This program aims to help drivers save on fuel costs, eliminate the need for a large upfront purchase, and ultimately create better economic opportunities for them.
General Manager of Bolt Nigeria, Osi Oguah, highlighted that this initiative addresses two major transportation challenges in Nigeria: low driver income and limited access to affordable commuting options. The service targets 1,000 electric tricycles by the end of 2025, focusing on areas with high population density and lower-income communities often underserved by traditional transportation services.
Beyond the environmental benefits, Bolt’s electric tricycle service is also expected to offer a more affordable and reliable transportation option for commuters in areas typically overlooked by other ride-hailing services. The project aligns with Bolt’s broader mission to develop transportation solutions that cater to the specific needs of African cities.
This move follows the successful launch of Bolt’s pilot electric tricycle service in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in 2020. SGX Mobility Executive, Dr. Dele Awofala, emphasised the urgency of transitioning away from fossil fuels in light of Nigeria’s climate and transportation challenges. He noted that transportation contributes significantly to the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, with tricycles and motorcycles being particularly polluting.
Dr. Awofala also pointed out the rising cost of fuel, which has increased by over 200% since May 2023, making commuting even more expensive. He called for swift action to adopt sustainable mobility solutions that reduce emissions, lower operational costs, and provide economic benefits.
With this initiative, Bolt hopes to drive the adoption of electric mobility in Nigeria. Electric mobility offers both environmental and economic advantages while addressing critical transportation challenges across the country.
