Micromobility Startup Ditches Kenya EV Pilot

Micromobility startup Also recently ceased operations on an electric two-wheeler pilot project in Kenya, which began earlier this year. The company has decided to concentrate its resources on developing its consumer e-bike and autonomous vehicle initiatives. This pivot follows a year of considerable challenges, including persistent supply chain disruptions that led to repeated delays for its initial product, the TM-B premium e-bike.

Also had received grant funding from the Shell Foundation for the Kenyan venture, intended to explore the African EV market. However, the startup ultimately chose to prioritize its primary development roadmap, including its partnership with DoorDash on autonomous vehicles. The TM-B e-bike, described as a "computer on wheels," finally began shipping to customers in early October after extensive production and certification hurdles.

Despite its focus on core projects, Also has acknowledged communication failures regarding the TM-B delivery delays, a misstep leadership is working to correct. The company plans to expand its offerings to include commercial cargo bikes and four-wheeled models, representing significant future revenue potential beyond its current e-bike focus. Early customer feedback on the TM-B has highlighted issues like delivery damage and battery drain, indicating ongoing challenges with its first product.