Electric tuk-tuks signal shift in Kenya’s urban transport

Electric tuk-tuks are beginning to redefine urban transport in Kenya, cutting operating costs for drivers while introducing cleaner and digitally connected mobility solutions tailored to the country’s demanding road conditions.

This shift is being underscored by the launch of the Skoot e3W, a smart electric three-wheeler introduced by Skoot Technology in partnership with SUN Mobility and distributed by Car & General.

The Skoot e3W combines a Piaggio-designed vehicle with SUN Mobility’s ultrafast battery swapping platform, allowing drivers to replace batteries in minutes and avoid downtime associated with conventional charging.

According to the companies, a driver covering about 150 kilometres per day can spend roughly Ksh.650 on energy, compared to about Ksh.850 using diesel.

Skoot Chief Executive Officer and co-founder Sacha Cook said the electric tuk-tuk is designed to help drivers work more efficiently.

“Skoot is transforming clean energy and mobility for drivers, homes and businesses. Our unified app and platform make it simpler to work smarter, cleaner and earn more,” Cook said.

Drivers use a mobile application to manage vehicle leases, locate battery swap stations and access delivery contracts.

The Skoot e3W is offered on flexible daily, weekly or monthly leases starting from Ksh.1,200 per day, inclusive of maintenance.

SUN Mobility Co-founder and CEO–International Ajay Goel said the company’s entry into Kenya builds on its experience scaling battery swapping solutions elsewhere.

“Our universal battery swapping solutions are built for hard-working two- and three-wheeler drivers everywhere, who depend on us to make their living. After significant success and scale-up in India, we are thrilled to be launching in Kenya with Skoot,” Goel said.

Car & General General Manager George Rubiri said the partnership is aimed at supporting reliable daily earnings for drivers.

“With our distribution and servicing footprint and Skoot’s digital tools, we’re confident this product will transform how drivers work,” Rubiri said.

The companies said trials conducted over the past 24 months in Nairobi tested performance under load, maintenance demands and rider experience, resulting in an electric tuk-tuk adapted to local traffic and road conditions.

Benson K., a driver involved in the pilot, said the electric tuk-tuk has simplified his daily operations.

“I don’t waste time and swap in minutes to get back on the road. My earnings are more stable, and the app makes everything easier – charging, payments and support,” he said.

As battery swapping networks expand and more electric three-wheelers enter the market, electric tuk-tuks are emerging as a practical and cost-effective alternative for Kenya’s fast-growing last-mile transport sector.