In an inspiring journey across six African countries, Stephan Lacock, a PhD candidate at Stellenbosch University, and his team demonstrated the potential of solar-powered mobility. They travelled 6,000km from Nairobi to Stellenbosch on an electric motorcycle, showcasing the possibilities of clean energy to meet diverse needs across the continent.
Lacock, alongside five fellow researchers, embarked on the journey late last year to test the limits of an electric motorcycle manufactured by Kenyan company Roam. The team used a vehicle-based solar charging station equipped with 10 solar panels (sponsored by Scatec), an inverter, and a large battery bank (provided by Balancell). These components powered swappable batteries that kept the motorcycle running through six countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa.
The Route Taken With Electric Motorcycle
The team navigated diverse terrains, including grasslands and rainforests, across the following countries:
- Kenya: Starting in Nairobi, the journey began.
- Tanzania: They crossed into Tanzania, where they encountered coffee and banana farms.
- Malawi: A rainstorm in Malawi forced the team to pause temporarily.
- Zambia: The journey continued through Zambia.
- Botswana: After Zambia, they travelled through Botswana.
- South Africa: The final leg ended in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Solar-Powered Mobility in Action
The electric motorcycle was powered by swappable batteries, with each pack offering a range of 60 to 110km before needing to be swapped out. The team used up to four batteries daily, swapping them in just 10 seconds. The motorcycle operated in eco-mode, with a speed of 50-60km/h, though it could reach 90km/h in full-power mode. On the second-to-last day, they managed to cover 1,000km.
Although the journey was tough, the team overcame several challenges, such as finding charging stations, navigating varied landscapes, and dealing with road conditions. They also faced logistical issues, sometimes relying on local support for food and overnight accommodation, including staying in a backyard in Tanzania.
Key Features of the Roam Electric Motorcycle
The Roam electric motorcycle played a crucial role in the team’s success. Below are its key features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Motorcycle Manufacturer | Roam (Kenya-based company) |
| Power Source | Solar-powered with swappable battery packs |
| Solar Panel Configuration | 10 solar panels, sponsored by Scatec |
| Battery Capacity | 60-110km range per battery pack, with four batteries used per day |
| Charging Method | Solar-powered station with inverter and large battery bank (sponsored by Balancell) |
| Max Speed | 90 km/h in full-power mode, 50-60 km/h in eco-mode |
| Battery Swap Time | 10 seconds for a full swap |
Impact of Solar Energy in Africa
The journey highlighted the potential of solar-powered mobility, especially in regions with limited access to affordable energy. For many people the team met, the motorcycle wasn’t just a sustainable solution but an affordable way to address mobility needs. In areas where survival is the primary concern, Lacock believes that providing access to cheaper transportation can have a significant impact on daily life, such as improving access to healthcare and food.
Booysen, a professor of engineering and founder of Stellenbosch University’s Electric Mobility Lab, noted that many communities still rely on firewood and charcoal for cooking, both of which have harmful health and environmental effects. The electric motorcycle offers a cleaner alternative that could help reduce these negative impacts.
Innovation and Hope for Africa
Lacock was inspired by the joy and resilience of the people they encountered during the journey. Despite facing poverty, the locals were primarily concerned with affordable mobility, rather than environmental benefits. Booysen emphasised that Africa’s unique challenges require local solutions, and the continent’s innovation potential is immense.
Looking ahead, Lacock plans to pilot similar projects across Africa, aiming to secure grants for further research and to bring solar-powered transportation to more communities. “I do see us making evident changes in their lives,” he said.
A documentary capturing their journey is in production, offering further insight into the transformative power of solar-powered transport in Africa’s future.
Related article: BMW GS Mid-Sized Models: The Ultimate All-Rounders for Any Terrain
