Nairobi — Car & General has launched a new LPG-powered Piaggio three-wheeler in Kenya, positioning it as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for urban transport operators facing rising fuel costs.
The company unveiled the Piaggio Ape NXT+ LPG in Nairobi during an event officiated by Car & General Chief Executive Officer Vijay Gidoomal and Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) Chief Executive Officer Tobias Alando.
The new model is designed to help operators reduce operating expenses through lower fuel consumption, with the company estimating savings of more than 30 percent compared to conventional petrol-powered three-wheelers.
According to Car & General, the reduced fuel costs could translate into higher earnings for drivers and faster returns on investment for fleet owners and small business operators involved in passenger transport and last-mile delivery services.
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"This new LPG three-wheeler is designed to put more money into the pockets of our operators," said Gidoomal.
"With fuel savings of over 30 percent, operators can significantly lower their running costs and ultimately increase their daily earnings, making their businesses more sustainable."
The launch comes at a time when transport operators are grappling with elevated fuel prices that have increased operating costs across the sector.
Beyond the economic benefits, the company says the LPG-powered vehicle offers environmental advantages by producing lower emissions than petrol-powered alternatives, helping reduce air pollution in urban centres.
The vehicle also features quieter engine operation, which the company says improves driver comfort while reducing noise pollution in densely populated areas.
"Transitioning to LPG is an important step towards cleaner urban mobility," said Alando.
"This technology reduces harmful emissions while also offering a quieter ride, which improves both the operator's experience and the urban environment."
The Piaggio Ape NXT+ LPG comes with a 20.6-litre LPG tank and a 2.8-litre petrol tank, generating a maximum power output of 11.3 horsepower. It also features a modern front fascia, enhanced passenger space and an integrated music system.
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Despite the benefits, industry players acknowledge that the adoption of LPG-powered vehicles could initially be constrained by the limited number of LPG refuelling stations, particularly in Nairobi and other major towns.
However, stakeholders expect infrastructure to expand gradually as demand for alternative fuel vehicles grows.
