In a major boost to support Nigeria’s transition to sustainable transportation, Alpha and Roadrunner (SBC 24) have jointly launched a new range of electric passenger and cargo tricycles during a two-day roadshow in Abuja.

The launch marks a significant step towards tackling both vehicle emissions and the rising operational costs faced by last-mile transport operators. The official launch roadshow was at Gwarimmpa and continued in Nyanya the following day attracting key stakeholders from the transportation and clean energy sectors.

The Co-Founder and CEO, Roadrunner, Mustpaha Ibrahim, emphasised the economic driver of the venture.

“Our goal with these electric tricycles is twofold: to reduce the negative impact of vehicle emissions in Africa, and critically, to reduce the operational cost for operators,” said Ibrahim.

“Recognizing the barrier of upfront costs, Roadrunner has integrated a strategic solution to accelerate adoption: asset financing to last-mile operators on a lease-to-own basis. This model offers a convenient and accessible pathway for operators to own a sustainable tricycle, moving them away from perpetual debt and the volatile expenses of petrol.

“By offering a convenient lease-to-own model, we are not just selling a vehicle; we are offering financial empowerment and a stake in a greener future.” Co-Founder and COO, Roadrunner, Clement David said, focusing on the broader societal benefits.

“The reduction in operational cost is immediate. This allows operators to earn more, which would, in turn, translate into an improved standard of living for them and their families,”

“This is a direct economic intervention powered by clean technology”, David explained.

The new electric tricycles are positioned as a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional petrol-powered vehicles, which are a major source of air pollution in Africa.

The Country Manager at Alpha, Ibrahim Haruna also highlighted the strategic significance of the collaboration.

Haruna noted: “Alpha is excited to partner with Roadrunner, a company that shares our vision for a sustainable Nigeria. Our partnership aims to address the two primary challenges hindering electric vehicle adoption: affordability and accessibility. By leveraging Roadrunner’s deep understanding of the last-mile market and their innovative lease-to-own financing model, we can swiftly scale the deployment of the eco-friendly tricycles. Our goal is to make green mobility not just an aspiration but practical reality for operators across Nigeria.”

The new electric passenger and cargo tricycles are a direct response to the urgent need for sustainable transport solutions in Nigeria’s bustling cities. Petrol-powered tricycles, commonly known as ‘Keke’ or ‘Keke NAPEP,’ are a vital component of urban and last-mile logistics but contribute heavily to air and noise pollution.

The President of the Electric Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMPAN) and Vice Chairman of the National Technical Committee on E-Mobility Standards, Mr. Dapo Adesina praised the initiative, highlighting its dual impact on the environment andthe economy.

“The launch of these electric tricycles aligns perfectly with Nigeria’scommitment to reducing our carbon footprint and driving a cleaner energy transition,” he stated.

“The fact that operators can significantly cut their running costs means more money in their pockets, which directly translates to an improved standard of living for them and their families.

Haruna noted: “Alpha is excited to partner with Roadrunner, a company that shares our vision for a sustainable Nigeria. Our partnership aims to address the two primary challenges hindering electric vehicle adoption: affordability and accessibility. By leveraging Roadrunner’s deep understanding of the last-mile market and their innovative lease-to-own financing model, we can swiftly scale the deployment of the eco-friendly tricycles. Our goal is to make green mobility not just an aspiration but practical reality for operators across Nigeria.”

The shift to electric power eliminates tailpipe emissions and reduces noise pollution,providing a cleaner, quieter, and healthier environment for both operators and city residents. The initiative is a powerful example of how the private sector is leading the charge in developing pragmatic solutions to meet national climate and economic development objectives.

As the roadshow concluded, the consensus among stakeholders was clear: the partnership between Alpha and Roadrunner (SBC 24) is a timely and transformative intervention that promises to electrify Nigeria’s crucial last-mile sector.

Other stakeholder including transport union chairmen, operators, dealers, and fleet owners, joined the event and collectively underscored the broad industry support for the new electric vehicles.