Kenyan electric mobility pioneer Roam has unveiled the country’s first universal fast-charging station for light electric vehicles (LEVs), capable of delivering 10–20 kilometers of range in just five minutes. This milestone marks a significant step toward accelerating the adoption of electric mobility across Africa.
Founded in 2017 and rebranded earlier this year, Roam has established itself as the leading manufacturer of locally designed electric vehicles, including motorcycles and buses. The company’s mission is to provide reliable, cost-effective solutions tailored for the pan-African mass market, addressing both affordability and sustainability.
Roam’s growth trajectory has been fueled by substantial investment. After raising $7.5 million in equity and grant funding in 2021, the company recently secured an additional $24 million to scale production of its electric motorcycles and buses. These funds support Roam’s vision to transform African transportation through innovative, locally engineered products.
The newly launched Roam Point fast-charging station introduces a self-service model that enables riders to top up quickly and conveniently. With the ability to add up to 20 kilometers of range in under five minutes, riders can combine home charging with fast-charging stops to achieve a daily range of up to 160 kilometers. Payments can be made seamlessly via SMS, M-Pesa (USSD), or the Roam App, ensuring 24/7 accessibility.
Habib Lukaya, Roam’s Country Manager, commented:
The Roam Point builds on our battery ownership model, which gives riders full control of their batteries and the freedom to ‘ride everywhere and charge anywhere. Whether it’s home charging, hub rental, or fast charging on the go, we want to empower our riders with flexible options that fit their lifestyle.
This launch signals the beginning of a nationwide rollout of high-speed charging infrastructure, reinforcing Roam’s commitment to building a robust ecosystem for electric mobility in Africa.
