Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has flagged off a pilot programme to evaluate locally assembled electric tricycles ahead of potentially large-scale deployment for commercial transportation.
Governor Radda, while speaking during the handing over ceremony of five electric tricycles manufactured by IRS, an indigenous company, declared commitment to bulk purchasing of the tricycles, which he said would be dependant on the vehicles’ performance during the test phase.
“We will closely monitor these tricycles’ durability and maintenance requirements before proceeding with any large-scale procurement
“We expect detailed and honest feedback regarding the tricycles’ profitability and durability in real word-conditions,“ the governor said.
He directed the leadership of the Commercial Tricycle Operators Association to select five trusted members to participate in the pilot programme.
Highlighting the innovative features of the electric tricycles, the Technical Assistant in the Department of Power and Energy, Engr. Kabir Abdullahi, explained that each vehicle is equipped with a 450-watt capacity solar panel and a battery storage system.
Abdullahi further disclosed that the battery can lower the tricycle for up to 150 kilometers while carrying a maximum load of 300 kilograms.
He noted this new technology would help operators reduce fuel costs while providing environmentally friendly, noise-free transportation.
Katsina Chairman of the Keke Napep Riders Association, Jamilu Isiyaku, expressed gratitude to Governor Radda for responding to their request for solar-powered tricycles and assured fair management of the test vehicles
