Lagos has taken a big step towards cleaner and cheaper transportation with the launch of eDryv, Nigeria’s first ride-hailing service powered almost entirely by green energy.

The service, created by Foltï Technologies Limited, started operation on April 13, in Lagos Island.

The cars run on electricity from the sun, meaning they do not rely on petrol or the national electricity grid.

Founder of Foltï Technologies, Ahmad Damcida, said: “We are proud to say our electric vehicles are powered 95 per cent by solar energy. We built and installed everything here in Nigeria. It’s clean, safe, and reliable.”

With fuel rising prices and air pollution getting worse, eDryv offers an alternative.

It promises cheaper rides, charging less than N320 per kilometre and allows users to earn rewards called ‘green coins’ which can be used for discounts on future trips.

“Every time you choose to ride with us, you are helping the environment and saving money. It is a win-win for everyone,” said Damcida.

The idea behind eDryv goes beyond ride-hailing. It also offers vehicle rentals and transport services for companies.

Damcida, who worked in the oil and gas industry for almost 20 years, said it is time Nigeria moved to cleaner energy.

“We understand oil. But we also know it is time to change. Electric cars are easier to manage, especially here in Africa, where cars often go through many hands,” he said.

Each electric vehicle costs about N44 million, but eDryv does not sell them. Instead, the cars are provided as a service to reduce user costs.

“We are building more than a transport company, we are building a cleaner, safer, and more affordable future for Nigerians,” said Damcida.