Bolt, Nigeria’s leading ride-hailing platform, has rolled out its first fleet of electric tricycles in Lagos as part of the company’s plan to promote sustainable transportation in Africa’s most populous city.
The company launched 25 electric “keke napep” units this month, manufactured by Lagos-based SGX Mobility, with ambitious plans to scale up to 1,000 vehicles by the end of 2025.
These eco-friendly tricycles can reach speeds of 80 km/h and operate for up to 12 hours on a full battery. Rather than traditional charging, they utilize a battery swap system, with the first swap station already operational in Surulere and more locations planned across Lagos.
“This initiative transforms how mobility works for the people who power our platform,” said Caroline Wanjihia, Bolt’s Regional Director of Rides Operations for Africa. “By reducing fuel costs and offering lease-to-own options, we’re creating real economic opportunities.”
The daily cost of battery swapping is approximately ₦6,500—about half the expense of fueling a petrol-powered tricycle. Drivers will also benefit from a reduced commission rate of 15%, compared to the typical 25% for car rides.
Under the lease-to-own model, drivers can acquire these tricycles—valued at ₦3.2 million (roughly $2,000)—with a down payment of ₦208,000 and pay the balance over 18 to 24 months.
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“We’re addressing two key challenges in our transport system—driver income and commuter access,” explained Osi Oguah, General Manager of Bolt Nigeria. “We’re targeting areas that have long been underserved.”
The initiative aligns with Lagos State’s ambition to replace 50% of public vehicles with EVs by 2030 and addresses rising fuel costs that have increased over 200% since May 2023.
The electric tricycles are fully integrated into the Bolt app, giving riders the option to choose them for shorter, more affordable urban trips.
