It travelled 6 200 km across six African countries while being powered solely by the sun. And last week, at the premiere of a new documentary series about the epic journey, the Roam Air electric bike shared the spotlight with the team that turned a “crazy idea” into a life-changing reality.
Two other projects were also showcased at the premiere of Recharging Hope, presented at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Research (STIAS) – a converted electric 1978 Volkswagen Beetle affectionately christened Pata-pata, as well as a converted Suzuki Carry.
Guests who attended the screening of the first episode of the seven-episode series were able to see first-hand how electric transport solutions can be adapted to African realities. The series was produced by videographer and expedition team member, Lewis Seymour. There was also a demonstration of the training bench developed by SU students in partnership with the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA) and forming part of the faculty’s practical skills development.
The US-led team set off for Kenya two years ago to pick up an electric motorcycle developed by Kenyan electric mobility company Roam. The company provided two test bikes, and the initial plan was to bring the vehicles and batteries to Stellenbosch by courier. When that option proved unfeasible, the team devised a networkless solution and charging operation plan that included sizing the solar plant, inverter and battery bank, and rode the bikes home.
Not only did the team cover 6 200 km across the continent, but they also did so using solar power. Prof Thinus Booysen, founder of SU’s Electric Mobility Laboratory, admits in the documentary that his first thought was: “Don’t try it at home.”
A story of determination
Recharging Hope offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the resilience, innovation and problem-solving needed to make this bold concept a reality, Booysen said. Against the backdrop of Africa’s diverse landscapes, the series documents the technical challenges of the solar-powered journey and the perseverance required of each team member. It also celebrates the connections and interactions between the team and the communities they encountered. “We’re looking at the experience and the inspiring stories here,” Booysen said.
Seymour captures the harsh realities of the expedition in his documentary, which required more than 500 hours of editing. By braving scorching heat, wind and hail, and navigating unfamiliar and sometimes unsafe terrain, the team overcame numerous obstacles over the course of 17 days to reach their final destination. In a final test of their endurance, they chose to cover 1 000 km in 24 hours on the penultimate day to reach the southern tip of the continent.
“When we completed the expedition in Stellenbosch with great fanfare, we realised our journey had created momentum,” Booysen said. That momentum has allowed for broader institutional and operational support, allowing the team to turn the project into a documentary series for a global audience.
After the team’s efforts to pitch the series to streaming platforms were unsuccessful, they opted to release it on YouTube. This ensured much wider accessibility than traditional distribution channels. Seymour told guests at the premiere that by showing the documentary online, a child in a village in Malawi will also be able to watch it. “The success of this documentary will not be measured by viewer numbers, but by its significance and the people who touched it.”
Partnerships and workable solutions
Prof Wikus van Niekerk, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, emphasised the power of applied research and collaboration in the industry before the screening.
“Engineering is great because it allows you to build and do stuff that you can touch and play with,” he said. “It’s fortunate that we’re working in a field where we can make these things tangible.” He added that partnerships are essential to turn ambitious ideas into workable solutions. “We can’t do this stuff as a faculty without industry partners.”
Scatec provided the solar panels used during the expedition, while battery energy storage was provided by Balancell. The project was also supported by the South African National Energy Development Institute’s (SANEDI) LEAP-RE project.
The conversion of the Suzuki Carry was completed with the support of two corporate partners, HYDAC and Balancell, proving how collaboration between academia and industry can transform research into real, African-led clean energy innovation.
Recharging Hope documents the challenges and achievements of the trek to traverse six countries with nothing but solar power. It highlights the ingenuity, creativity and determination of Africa’s young engineers, while showcasing the region’s natural beauty, Booysen said. “Through this documentary, we can also show how renewable energy can change lives, especially for the most vulnerable and isolated.”
To watch, visit: Recharging Hope YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/@RechargingHope
