#25
ARC RIDE
In the rapidly growing cities of Africa, transportation is both a necessity and a challenge, but ARC Ride is changing the game with a focus on sustainability. Founded in 2019, ARC Ride’s mission is to provide electric solutions for mass transportation through an innovative model that integrates electric vehicles (EVs) and battery-charging infrastructure. This forward-thinking company is reshaping urban mobility. Notably, with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, social welfare, and transparent governance, ARC Ride has become a dominant player in the African e-mobility space.
ARC Ride’s foundation is built on a vision of affordable, reliable and clean transportation for African cities, directly addressing the urgent need for sustainable solutions. The company’s entire fleet of two- and three-wheel EVs operates on a battery-swapping system, which not only eliminates the emissions produced by traditional fuel-powered motorcycles, but also reduces waste through shared battery resources. This innovative Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model allows riders to avoid the cost of battery ownership and encourages sustainable mobility by making EVs more accessible and affordable. The environmental benefits are amplified by the company’s network of over 100 battery swap stations across Nairobi and Nakuru, which are strategically placed to ensure convenience for riders while reducing downtime and keeping operations efficient.
In addition to the environmental benefits of EV integration, ARC Ride assembles its own electric vehicles locally, sourcing part components from regional manufacturers. This reduces carbon emissions associated with importing parts from overseas and strengthens the local supply chain, fostering a sustainable production model. The company’s ongoing commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of transportation is part of a larger goal to combat climate change while delivering greener cities.
At the same time, ARC Ride is dedicated to improving the lives of its riders and the communities it serves. Local assembly creates job opportunities and stimulates economic growth in Kenya, while engaging regional manufacturers and suppliers helps boost employment and develop skills within the workforce. This empowers communities to actively participate in the electric mobility revolution.
ARC Ride has been recognised as a 2X Investment, underscoring its dedication to promoting opportunities for women through quality employment, leadership roles, and inclusive access to finance and products. The company upholds this commitment with a comprehensive gender strategy that emphasizes governance and accountability. A female co-founder plays an active role in the company’s leadership, and women make up 33 percent of the C-suite management team and 38 percent of the overall workforce – an impressive achievement in its engineering-focused sector. This recognition highlights ARC Ride’s strong commitment to advancing gender equality across all areas of its operations.
The company has partnered with GA Insurance to introduce a unique personal accident cover called SwapCare. This coverage is available at an affordable additional cost to riders using ARC Ride’s battery-swapping services. SwapCare offers financial protection by covering medical expenses, lost income in the event of an accident, and even funeral costs in tragic cases. By integrating this protection into riders’ daily routines, ARC Ride not only promotes economic resilience but also enhances the well-being of those who depend on its services.
ARC Ride’s participation in community-focused events like the recently held Boda Boda Safety and Awareness Campaign, which targeted riders in Nairobi, further illustrates its dedication to elevating rider safety and awareness. Offering free bike clinics and services during these kinds of events helps create a safer and more informed rider community, aligning with the company’s broader social responsibility objectives.
Moreover, ARC Ride collaborates with key micro-financiers, such as Watu Credit, to help riders transition to electric bikes, reducing operational costs associated with high fuel prices and maintenance. These partnerships offer flexible financing options, making e-bikes more accessible and enabling riders to fully capitalise on the cost-saving benefits. This not only addresses the social aspect of ESG by empowering individuals with affordable, sustainable transportation solutions but also ensures that ARC Ride secures the necessary funding to scale operations. By fostering these partnerships, ARC Ride demonstrates strong corporate governance, aligning its growth with sustainable practices and responsible business management to promote long-term value for both the company and its community.
ARC Ride’s success is fueled by the visionary, ethical, and impactful leadership of CEO Joseph Hurst-Croft. Under his guidance, the company has established itself as a frontrunner in the African e-mobility market
ARC Ride’s approach to integrating electric vehicles into the African transport market demonstrates how a business can combine profit with purpose. As the company continues to expand its fleet and infrastructure, it remains dedicated to creating cleaner cities, empowering riders, and setting the standard for ESG in the region. Through innovation and leadership, ARC Ride transforms transportation while driving Africa toward a more sustainable future.
AUTHOR: KAREN NDUKU
EDITOR: MARTIN O’NEIL
