A Kenyan high school teacher, Paul Waweru, has been using old laptop batteries to convert petrol-powered bikes into electric ones, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution for many Kenyans. Waweru has founded a company called Ecomobilus, which is already selling well, especially to couriers who are attracted by the low costs and zero maintenance requirements of the electric bikes.
Turning Waste into a Solution
Waweru’s innovation is fuelled by his desire to create a product that meets the needs of his society. “Nobody was selling electric bikes in Kenya, so I had to import one,” he told. It didn’t last long, so the teacher decided to create his own innovation – a product that would benefit society. He used second-hand electronics that were destined for waste – the cells that still had a decent charge, then configured them into battery packs to replace the internal combustion engines of existing scooters and bikes.
Zero Maintenance and Low Costs
Ecomobilus bikes are more advantageous than gasoline-powered bikes for several reasons. Firstly, there is zero maintenance required because there are no mechanical parts that need to be repaired often. The engines are no longer there, so they are dealing with motors, which can last up to two years without requiring servicing. Additionally, the cost of charging a full laptop battery pack is less than half the cost of a full tank of fuel, and it can fully charge in 45 minutes, providing a range of up to 60 miles or 100 kilometers.
The Perfect Solution for Air Pollution
Many African cities suffer from air pollution, especially during the dry seasons. Electric bikes are seen as the perfect solution to this vital issue, and Ecomobilus has been receiving a positive response from customers. The couriers, in particular, appreciate the low costs of operating the bikes, as they no longer have to pay for gasoline or frequent maintenance. With Waweru’s innovation, Kenyans can now have access to electric bikes that are sustainable, cost-effective, and require minimal maintenance, helping to reduce pollution and improve air quality.
