Kenya’s ARC Ride Raises $33.3M for Electric Mobility Revolution
Nairobi-based electric mobility startup ARC Ride has announced a significant funding round of USD 33.3 million, positioning it as a key player in Africa’s transition to sustainable transportation.
The investment was led by Novastar Ventures and Norrsken22, with participation from notable institutions including IFC, BII, Proparco, Musashi Seimitsu, and Talanton. Existing investor Mirova also deepened its commitment with additional funding alongside debt financing from BII’s Kinetic programme.
Addressing a Critical Infrastructure Gap
Founded in 2018 by Jo Hurst Croft, ARC Ride provides Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) infrastructure for electric two- and three-wheelers. This allows riders to quickly swap depleted batteries at smart stations—addressing range anxiety and operational challenges that often hinder EV adoption.
The company’s network already supports leading manufacturers like Yadea and is strategically positioning itself as the backbone of Africa’s emerging electric transport ecosystem.
Expansion Plans Across Sub-Saharan Africa
With this new funding, ARC Ride will:
- Expand its footprint across sub-Saharan Africa, targeting Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda in addition to its existing operations in Kenya
- Add 5,000 electric motorcycles to its network
- Strengthen battery infrastructure with more smart stations
- Develop automated swapping systems, smart charging capabilities, and renewable-energy integration
This investment represents a significant vote of confidence in ARC Ride’s vision to create accessible, affordable, and sustainable transportation solutions for African markets.