The Katsina State Government has initiated a pilot programme to assess the feasibility of locally assembled electric tricycles as part of its plans for large-scale commercial deployment.
Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, during the ceremony marking the rollout of five electric tricycles manufactured by IRS, a Nigerian company, emphasized the government’s commitment to purchasing the vehicles in bulk, contingent on their performance throughout the test phase.
“We will closely monitor these tricycles’ durability and maintenance requirements before making any decisions on large-scale procurement,” Radda stated.
He also noted that feedback on the tricycles’ profitability and real-world performance would be essential to the decision-making process.
In a move aimed at ensuring a fair evaluation, Radda instructed the leadership of the Commercial Tricycle Operators Association to select five trusted members for the pilot programme.
Technical Assistant in the Department of Power and Energy, Engr. Kabir Abdullahi, highlighted the innovative features of the electric tricycles.
Each vehicle is equipped with a 450-watt solar panel and a battery storage system, providing a range of up to 150 kilometers per charge, with the capacity to carry up to 300 kilograms.
Abdullahi also emphasized the environmental and cost-saving benefits of the technology, which would reduce fuel expenses and provide a quieter, greener alternative to traditional tricycles.
Jamilu Isiyaku, Chairman of the Keke Napep Riders Association, expressed gratitude to the Governor for addressing their call for solar-powered tricycles and promised that the test vehicles would be managed responsibly throughout the trial period.
