In a groundbreaking achievement, Nigerian cyclist Sekinat Taiwo has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance covered by an electric auto-rickshaw in 12 hours.
On Monday, Taiwo covered an impressive 347 kilometres using Qoray Mobility’s teak electric vehicle (EV), surpassing the previous record of 250 kilometres.
The attempt took place at Lagos’ iconic National Theatre during the weekend and was certified by Guinness World Records adjudicator Carl Saville.
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Pioneering African innovation
The record-breaking feat highlights Qoray Mobility’s role as a pioneer in sustainable transportation. The Teak EV, equipped with advanced lithium-ion battery technology, delivered high efficiency and zero emissions, positioning it as a cutting-edge solution for clean transportation.
A shift toward sustainability
This record underscores the growing momentum behind electric vehicles (EVs) as a sustainable transportation solution. With the rise of climate change concerns and the depletion of fossil fuels, EVs offer an eco-friendly alternative to reduce emissions and enhance energy efficiency.
Notably, one of the first potential applications of the Teak EV could be enabling Nigerian creators to accept payments and store funds directly within a closed ecosystem, bypassing external financial institutions, according to an anonymous insider.
A Symbol of possibility
Sekinat Taiwo’s endurance and skill symbolise the resilience and innovation driving Africa’s transition to sustainable technologies. Her accomplishment serves as a testament to the potential of African ingenuity to rival global standards in innovation and technology.
However, as EVs gain traction in Africa, challenges such as limited infrastructure, high initial costs, and regulatory hurdles remain. While this record-breaking achievement highlights the promise of clean energy, it also raises questions about how quickly such advancements can be scaled to benefit everyday Africans.
Will this herald a new era of sustainable mobility across the continent, or will it remain an isolated milestone for a privileged few?