Nigeria has officially entered the electric mobility era with the launch of its first electric vehicle (EV) ride-hailing platform, eDryv, developed by Foltï Technologies Limited, a Lagos-based clean-tech mobility company. Notably, 95% of the energy powering this new service comes from solar sources, marking a significant step forward in the country’s transition toward cleaner energy and sustainable transport systems.
The service was unveiled at Foltï Technologies’ solar-powered headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos, attracting a cross-section of stakeholders from the transport, energy, and technology sectors, including government representatives and green mobility advocates.
“We’ve built a fully integrated clean mobility ecosystem powered almost entirely by solar infrastructure installed locally,” said Ahmad Damcida, founder and principal of Foltï Technologies. “This is more than just a ride-hailing app, it’s our commitment to a greener, more sustainable future for Nigeria.”
eDryv introduces a Transportation-as-a-Service (TaaS) model tailored for Nigeria’s urban market, covering ride-hailing, vehicle rentals, and corporate transport—each powered exclusively by renewable energy. Set to commence operations on Sunday, April 13, 2025, the platform will initially serve the Lagos Island area.
Fares are competitively priced at under ₦320 per kilometer, and the platform offers a Green Coins loyalty program, rewarding users based on the number of zero-emission kilometers traveled. These points can be redeemed for discounted rides, reinforcing the company’s environmental mission.
“Every kilometer traveled with eDryv contributes to cleaner air,” Damcida added. “And we reward you for that impact.”
A former oil and gas executive, Damcida emphasized the strategic pivot to renewables: “We understand the traditional energy industry, but we also recognize the urgent need to decarbonize. EVs are more durable and easier to maintain—better suited to African conditions.”
Rather than selling electric vehicles at high upfront costs (typically around ₦44 million), Foltï’s eDryv offers them via a subscription-based model, eliminating ownership burdens for both drivers and riders.
Emmanuel Alagbe, the company’s head of operations and maintenance, highlighted the two models currently in use: the Dayun MPV with a 450 km range, and the Dayun SUV with a 330 km range. Vehicles are monitored with real-time telematics for optimal performance, driver behavior, and route efficiency.
To support its rollout, the company has built a solar-powered charging hub in Victoria Island’s Eletu Ogabi area, featuring eight 30 kW ports and 460 kWh of energy storage. Additional stations are in development across Lagos, including the Mainland and Marina-Ajapa corridor.
Attendees at the launch expressed optimism about this sustainable alternative. Kemi Olatunji, a Lagos-based marketing professional, welcomed the service: “I spend a fortune on transport and deal with constant delays and fuel shortages. A reliable, solar-powered ride at a lower cost is exactly what we need.”
Dapo Adeshina, president of the Electric Mobility Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMPAN), lauded the innovation: “This is a landmark moment for Nigeria’s sustainable transport. With over 22% of emissions stemming from transportation, EVs can drive real improvements in public health and air quality.”
Looking ahead, Foltï Technologies plans to establish a local EV assembly plant in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with operations expected to commence by 2026/2027. The facility aims to boost job creation and enhance Nigeria’s domestic EV manufacturing capabilities.
Adeshina also emphasized the need for policy support including import duty waivers, simplified port clearance, and financing schemes for EV drivers to accelerate adoption at scale.
