Also, a micromobility company spun out from Rivian in 2025, quietly exited its electric motorcycle pilot in Kenya earlier this year, shifting focus to its core business of e-bikes and autonomous vehicle technology, its leadership confirmed.
- Also's Kenya EV pilot received Shell Foundation funding but was halted after early-stage work.
- Supply chain issues delayed Also's TM-B e-bike deliveries, hurting customer trust.
- Focus shifted to autonomous vehicle development via DoorDash partnership.
What happened
Also, spun out from Rivian in 2025, initiated an electric motorcycle pilot project in Kenya with support from the Shell Foundation. The pilot aimed to develop a locally integrated electric two-wheeler platform with modular batteries and distributed charging infrastructure, intending to expand across East Africa. Despite these ambitions, Also ceased the project after conducting only initial exploration, choosing to redirect its efforts.
The company publicly acknowledged the termination of the Kenya project in September 2026, citing a strategic decision to concentrate on its primary product pipeline, especially its TM-B e-bike and autonomous vehicle projects. The Shell Foundation confirmed the pilot’s intent to generate key market insights but declined to elaborate due to a nondisclosure agreement.
Why it matters
Africa’s electric two-wheeler market presents significant growth opportunities given the continent’s large reliance on motorcycles for mobility. Firms like Spiro have already deployed over 130,000 electric motorcycles across several countries, supported by extensive battery swapping networks. Also’s initial interest mirrored this momentum, aiming to tackle affordability and local market fit with purpose-built vehicles and innovative battery design.
However, Also’s pivot underscores the challenges and trade-offs faced by startups balancing multiple ambitious projects. Supply chain disruptions delayed the TM-B e-bike deliveries throughout 2026, compounding customer frustration and communication missteps. Redirecting focus to autonomy reflects a bet on technological differentiation and larger commercial partnerships, which could enable more scalable revenue streams.
What to watch next
Also’s ability to fulfill outstanding TM-B e-bike orders and rebuild customer trust will be critical in restoring its reputation after a rocky product launch year. The TM-B remains the company's most visible consumer offering and a potential stepping stone for broader commercial vehicle plans.
The company’s progress with autonomous delivery vehicles through its partnership with DoorDash represents a key growth area. Success here could propel Also into new market segments beyond micromobility. Additionally, observers should monitor whether Also or other players re-enter the African electric two-wheeler space, which continues to attract Chinese investors and local startups driven by expanding demand.