Kenya Charging Infrastructure status
By zooming in on Kenya's charging infrastructure, these are some of the general findings for which Fika is solving:
- High electricity costs are a significant challenge, with proposed e-mobility tariffs potentially increasing costs to $0.30 per kWh.
- Four emerging charging models: home charging, swap stations, charge stations, and battery rental.
- Lack of public charging infrastructure remains a barrier to EV adoption.
- The Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model is gaining traction to address high battery costs and accelerate e-motorcycle adoption.
Fika's Charging Model
Fika initially focused on the B2B market, allowing delivery companies and fleet owners to run their own swap stations. Fika is now expanding to provide proprietary swap stations for asset-financed e-motorcycle customers, targeting both B2B and B2C (boda riders) markets.
The lessons learnt from the current charging solution has evolved into F-Charge: interoperable charging units.
Key points about Fika's model:
- Swap Stations: Initially set up at five partner institutions (Takataka Solutions, Little Cab, Greenspoon, M-Gas, and Brood Bakery) for B2B customers. They plan to expand to SACCO locations for B2C customers.
- Charging Cost: $1.50 per charge, with a charging time of <4 hours.
- Swap Time: Approximately 1 minute.
Software and Tech layer
Fika's software platform (beta version) integrates various components of their e-mobility ecosystem:
- Battery Management System (BMS): Monitors battery health, state of charge, and performance in real-time.
- Swap Station Management: Tracks battery inventory, manages charging cycles, and facilitates efficient swapping operations.
- Fleet Management: Provides real-time data on vehicle location, performance, and maintenance needs.
- User App (BETA Version): Allows riders to locate nearby swap stations, check battery status, and manage their accounts.
- Data Analytics: Collects and analyzes data on battery usage, charging patterns, and rider behavior to optimize the system and improve user experience.
- Payment Integration (BETA Version): Seamlessly integrates with mobile money platforms for easy transactions.
This comprehensive software ecosystem enables Fika to efficiently manage their battery swapping network, optimize battery life and performance, and provide a seamless experience for their customers. The integration of IoT and data analytics allows for continuous improvement of their services and helps address the unique challenges of the African e-mobility market.
Battery & Charger specifications
Battery Specifications | • Cell Type: LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate)
• Nominal Voltage: 73.6V
• Rated Capacity: 45Ah
• Storage Capacity: 3.31 kWh
• Standard Charge Current: 10A
• Maximum Charge Current: 30A
• Rated Discharge Current: 80A
• Max Discharge Current: 120A (10 seconds, at 50% State of Charge)
• Operating Voltage Range: 60-84V
• Battery Longevity: 2000 cycle life
• Weight: 27.5 kg
• Dimensions: 250 x 210 x 325 mm |
Charger Specifications: | • Input Voltage: 90-264V AC
• Output Current: 10A
• Output Voltage: 84V DC
• Charging Efficiency: >91% at 230VAC input and 83VDC/10A output |
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