From his modest workshop in Freetown, James Samba is developing a prototype of an electric car made with recycled materials, an innovative approach in his fight against air pollution in Sierra Leone.
During rush hours, the streets of the capital are crowded with minibuses, motorcycles, shared taxis, and motorized tricycles known as “kekes,” all contributing to the pollution problem.
After losing his uncle, who James says died from a respiratory disease linked to prolonged exposure to toxic gases, this 23-year-old student set out to design an electric-powered “keke.” “I wanted to save other people from suffering respiratory diseases due to air pollution,” explained the young man.
The result of his work is a pink electric vehicle, similar to a small golf cart, now roaming the streets of Freetown. This project, although modest, aims to provide a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-powered vehicles.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes 4.2 million premature deaths each year. In Sierra Leone, frequent traffic jams and the poor condition of many vehicles worsen this issue. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) reported that in 2021, about 1,200 people died in the country due to air pollution.
Innovation with Solar Energy
Before embarking on his current crusade, James had already built an electric wheelchair for his uncle, who couldn’t use public transportation. His innovative spirit led him to collaborate with NEEV Salone, a startup that assembles and markets electric tricycles.
James proposed incorporating solar panels on the roofs of the company’s vehicles. “We have a fleet of 100 tricycles, three charging stations, and battery exchange points for our customers,” details Emmanuella Sandy, co-founder and operations director of NEEV Salone. Additionally, they trained about 60 mechanical engineering students to assemble and maintain the ‘e-kekes.’
However, the expansion of electric vehicles in Sierra Leone faces challenges. The country’s electrical grid is insufficient, leading to frequent outages, and the six-month rainy season limits the performance of solar panels. Only 20% of households have access to electricity, according to a 2024 World Bank report.
How is the electric car with recycled materials recharged?
To power their charging stations, NEEV Salone combines solar energy, generators, and the national power grid. According to James, solar tricycles offer economic advantages for drivers, with lower maintenance costs and fuel savings.
However, the $5,000 price tag per unit remains a barrier in one of the world’s poorest countries. Nevertheless, drivers like Thomas Kanu are willing to invest. “The solar tricycle is comfortable and cost-effective. Plus, I no longer worry about gasoline shortages,” commented the 25-year-old driver.
The Benefits of Electric Cars
Electric vehicles offer many benefits, both for the environment and the owner:
- Reduce pollution: They do not emit harmful gases, improving air quality and health.
- Are quieter: They lack engine noise, helping make cities quieter.
- Are more efficient: They consume less fuel than traditional vehicles.
- Require less maintenance: They have fewer moving mechanical components that wear out.
- Are more durable: They are known to be more durable.
- Offer tax advantages: In some places, electric vehicles have tax exemptions or reductions.
- Are compatible with renewable energies: They are powered by renewable energies and recyclable batteries.
- Are a good environmental choice: They are the best option for respecting the environment without sacrificing mobility.
However, electric vehicles also have some disadvantages, such as long charging times, limited driving range, and high initial costs.
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