Have you ever cruised in a well-pimped-up matatu minibus that made you feel like you were on a plane? Hold your breath then. Meet the “Phenomenal”, a public service vehicle (PSV) set to debut on Friday 25.
The sleek matatu will feature artistic graffiti-style artwork, custom designs, flashy lights, and onboard entertainment to pull the crowds.
Amazingly, the minibus will be the first matatu to feature Starlink wifi satellite installed on top with a complete kit, meaning consumers will enjoy a fast internet connection en route to their destination.
Travellers will be allowed to access wifi up to speeds of 200mbps for free. The wifi will also be used to stream live HD music.
The masterpiece, which is essentially art on wheels, was designed by Maze Njoroge who has designed lots of matatus including cyberpunk and restoration matatus that were a rage in the dusty streets of Nairobi.
The 'Phenomenal' was fabricated by Central Farmers Garage (CFG) and will ply the Ngong route under NTVRS Sacco.
To achieve the kind of class it got, the owners enlisted the services of experts in pimping. The glitzy green matatu’s portraits were done by Martin Ojiambo and customized lights were done by Jaramba.
According to Branden Marshall, an administrator at Matatu Galore and a matatu culture pundit, the vehicle cost approximately Ksh10 million.
“The chassis plus standard body costs Ksh6.8 million plus the modifications, customized seats and the music including the Television screen will stretch to over Ksh10 million,” he stated.
Branden noted that Phenomenal is going to be a one-of-a-kind matatu. It is expected to scoop awards owing to its advanced technological features.
Additionally, the 33-seater will have customised rims to promote its sleek design. Music will be a key feature of the matatu with high-end 18inch subwoofers which are very costly.
While matatu culture has evolved, technological advancements are being incorporated reflecting rapid technology change.
