Glovo Partners with Siltech to Introduce EV Deliveries in Lagos

Food delivery startup Glovo has announced a partnership with electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Siltech to utilize its EV products and services for deliveries in select areas of Lagos, Nigeria.

This collaboration aims to help Glovo reduce costs associated with petrol and maintenance for internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles.

Although Glovo has not yet started using Siltech's EV service ecosystem, the partnership is viewed as a proof of concept by Siltech.

Siltech CEO Tolu Williams confirmed the partnership, stating that Glovo has committed to using Siltech's products and services.

This includes access to charging stations, after-sales services, technical support, and battery swap facilities. The pilot phase will commence in Ikate, Lekki, and Victoria Island in Lagos, where Siltech has established these facilities.

The battery swap stations significantly reduce the time needed to recharge EV batteries, allowing Glovo riders to replace a drained battery with a fully charged one in minutes.

The high cost of petrol has been a significant challenge for businesses in Nigeria, prompting some, like Glovo, to explore EVs as a viable alternative.

The Siltech Ginsu bikes, which will be used by Glovo riders, are equipped with this feature, enhancing efficiency and reducing downtime.

Williams noted that while Glovo will pay for these services, the partnership terms include a discounted rate.

This is expected to be more cost-effective for Glovo compared to petrol expenses. Despite the agreement, a Glovo spokesperson mentioned that deliveries using the EV bikes will not commence for a few months.

Once operational, Williams anticipates a substantial cost reduction for Glovo due to the comprehensive range of services provided by Siltech.

The partnership represents a significant step for Siltech, which recently expanded from EV manufacturing to offering complete EV services within an EV ecosystem.

This ecosystem already supports various EV users, including a Tesla owner, for charging and other related services.

This move by Glovo and Siltech underscores a growing trend in Nigeria towards adopting EVs as businesses seek more sustainable and cost-effective solutions amidst rising petrol costs.