By Comfort Asemota
Two leading firms, Alpha and Roadrunner (SBC 24), have unveiled a fleet of electric passenger and cargo tricycles aimed at transforming urban mobility and logistics in Nigeria. The launch included high-profile roadshows in Gwarimpa and Nyanya, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), attended by key industry stakeholders, including Mr. Dapo Adesina, President of the Electric Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMPAN).
The companies highlighted that the electric tricycles are designed to combat pollution from petrol engines while improving the profitability and sustainability of logistics operators.
Accessible Ownership Through Innovative Financing
A core element of Roadrunner’s adoption strategy is making electric vehicle (EV) ownership affordable. Operators can access the tricycles through a lease-to-own financing model, removing the high upfront cost and offering a practical path to full ownership. This approach provides a sustainable and convenient solution for commercial transport operators.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The electric tricycles offer a green alternative to traditional petrol-powered tricycles, reducing harmful emissions and contributing to cleaner urban air. Mr. Dapo Adesina, an engineer and Vice Chairman of the National Technical Committee on E-Mobility Standards, emphasized the broader impact of the initiative:
“This is more than just a vehicle launch; it is an investment in Nigeria’s future health and wealth. By transitioning to electric, we reduce vehicle emissions and provide economic opportunities for thousands of operators who depend on this sector.”
Partnership Driving EV Adoption
Ibrahim Haruna, Country Manager at Alpha, stated:
“Alpha is excited to partner with Roadrunner to promote a sustainable Nigeria. Together, we are addressing the two main obstacles to electric vehicle adoption: affordability and accessibility. Roadrunner’s expertise in last-mile transport and innovative financing allows us to scale the deployment of these clean tricycles quickly, making green mobility a practical reality for Nigerian operators.”
Clement David, Chief Operating Officer at Roadrunner, added:
“Our goal is to democratize access to clean technology. The rising cost of petrol has reduced the income of commercial drivers. By lowering operational expenses with electric tricycles, operators can increase their earnings, improving their livelihoods while contributing to a cleaner environment.”
Driving Nigeria’s Sustainable Mobility Future
The launch of Alpha and Roadrunner’s electric tricycles represents a major step forward for Nigeria’s EV sector, combining environmental benefits with economic empowerment for commercial operators. As adoption grows, these initiatives are expected to play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable transport solutions across the country.
