Nairobi’s tuk-tuk sector is getting an electric upgrade.
Skoot Technology has unveiled the Skoot e3W, a smart electric three-wheeler powered by battery swapping technology from SUN Mobility and distributed by Car & General.
Launched Thursday afternoon, the vehicle combines a Piaggio-designed three-wheeler with SUN Mobility’s ultrafast battery swapping platform, offering drivers lower operating costs and minimal downtime.
According to the company, a typical driver covers about 150 kilometres daily. With the new system, that distance costs roughly KES 650, compared to KES 850 on diesel — a saving of up to 30 per cent.
Battery swaps take only minutes at designated swap stations, eliminating long charging hours and keeping drivers on the road.
Built for Nairobi roads
The launch follows two years of pilot trials across Nairobi. The tests included performance under heavy loads, durability of swap cycles, maintenance stress tests and rider experience feedback.
The result, the companies say, is an electric three-wheeler redesigned for Kenya’s traffic conditions, terrain and driver needs.
The Skoot e3W is available on flexible daily, weekly or monthly leases starting at KES 1,200 per day, inclusive of maintenance.
Sacha Cook, CEO and Co-Founder of Skoot Technology, described the rollout as a shift in how drivers work.
“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. “The Skoot e3W is built on this foundation — an easy-access electric vehicle, revamped for working drivers and managed through your mobile phone.”
Cook added that smart gas solutions and connected two-wheelers are next in line.
Through the Skoot app, drivers can manage leases, locate swap stations and access delivery contracts.
Kenya expansion after India success
SUN Mobility says Kenya marks a major step in its African expansion.
Ajay Goel, Co-founder and CEO-International of SUN Mobility, said the company is building on its scale in India.
“SUN Mobility aims to make electric mobility affordable, and after significant success and scale-up in India, we are thrilled to be launching in Kenya with Skoot,” Goel said. “Our universal battery swapping solutions are built for hard-working two and three-wheeler drivers who depend on us to make their living.”
The company has deployed over 1,000 Swap Points across more than 25 cities globally, powering over 60,000 vehicles and covering more than 465 million kilometres.
For Car & General, which has operated in East Africa since 1936, the partnership strengthens its push into electric mobility.
General Manager George Rubiri said the company’s nationwide service network will support drivers transitioning to electric.
“With our distribution and servicing footprint and Skoot’s digital tools, we’re confident this product will transform how drivers work,” Rubiri said.
Car & General introduced Piaggio electric three-wheelers in February 2024 and is marking 90 years in the region’s mobility sector this year.
For drivers who participated in the Nairobi pilot, the difference is already clear.
Benson K., one of the test drivers, said the electric tuk-tuk has stabilised his daily income.
“With the Skoot, I get an easy daily rental for my vehicle. I don’t waste time and swap in minutes to get back on the road,” he said. “My earnings are more stable, and the app makes everything easier — charging, payments and support.
