Bolt turns to electric bajaj to mitigate effects of urban pollution
What you need to know:
- The shift towards sustainable urban transportation is becoming increasingly critical as cities strive to reduce their carbon footprints and combat climate change.
Dar es Salaam. Bolt is integrating the electric bajaj option into its platform as it seeks to mitigate the adverse effects of urban pollution and support the global effort to achieve carbon neutrality.
The Bolt Country Manager Dimmy Kanyankole said the shift towards sustainable urban transportation is becoming increasingly critical as cities strive to reduce their carbon footprints and combat climate change.
“One innovative solution gaining traction is the adoption of electric bajajs, three-wheeled vehicles traditionally powered by fossil fuels. Electric bajajs significantly reduce carbon emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment,” he said.
He noted that they aim to reduce the use of carbon-emitting fuels to improve transportation in the country. Given this, he said Bolt empowers drivers to increase their earnings and achieve greater financial stability by providing access to these cost-effective vehicles.
On his part, economist Julius Ndele of Dar es Salaam City Council said climate change brings about adverse effects, but electric cars will create a safer environment and also reduce the cost of obtaining energy.
“By embracing electric bajaj, cities can take a substantial step forward in their sustainability goals, showcasing the potential of electric vehicles to transform urban mobility while preserving the planet for future generations,” he said.
He noted that the city of Dar es Salaam supports the government's efforts to reduce carbon emissions by using electric energy, thus preserving the environment.
Meanwhile, Country Manager, Watu Credit (Tanzania) Limited, Rumisho Shikonyi said the partnership with Bolt, TRÍ to empower drivers and revolutionize urban transportation by introducing electric Bajaj in a pilot program.
He said the pilot program begins with the initial deployment of 25 electric Bajajis. This initial phase will provide valuable insights for program refinement and future expansion.
“This initiative prioritizes not only sustainable and affordable mobility solutions but also the economic well-being of Tanzania's driving force,” he said.
He noted that TRÍ brings its profound industry expertise to the collaboration by supplying the program with its innovative electric bajaj
According to him, the introduction of electric Bajajis significantly reduces operational costs, with a full charge costing only Sh2,900 compared to Sh20,000 for the same range as petrol.
