Teacher Builds Electric Motorbike Using Recycled Laptop Batteries

Photo collage of an electric motorbike built by Paul Waweru
Photo collage of an electric motorbike built by Paul Waweru.
KTN News

Paul Waweru, a Physics teacher at Mwihoko Mixed Secondary School in Kiambu, innovated an electric bicycle using recycled laptop batteries.

His electric motorbikes are now in high demand, with prospective buyers reaching out with offers. 

Waweru conceived the idea to innovate the bikes after spending a fortune on purchasing one which broke down after a few months. 

The battery wore out faster than anticipated, prompting him to invest in another prototype accumulator to power his bike.

Paul Waweru, a teacher at Mwihoko High School in Kiambu County speaking on Thursday October 20, 2022
Paul Waweru, a teacher at Mwihoko High School in Kiambu County speaking on Thursday, October 20, 2022.
KTN News

"After several experiments, I built the first prototype, which worked beyond my expectations, moving for over 50 kilometres," the Physics teacher stated.

Using different concepts in Physics and applying other scientific skills, Waweru dismantled old laptop batteries and used the materials to invent the accumulators. 

The new batteries cover over 50 kilometres once fully charged.

"I connect more than 160 of the batteries by arranging them in layers and enclosing them in a leather cloth. 

"The batteries take approximately three hours to recharge and can go up to 50 kilometres, depending on the speed," he added.

Power consumed during that distance is equivalent to 4 electric units, according to the Physics teacher.

However, his electric bike can also be charged using solar energy, which promotes the use of clean energy and promotes climate conservation.

With the increasing demand, Waweru intends to increase production, which will also help the country tackle fuel shortages. 

His invention is also set to take off after Kenya Power announced plans to set up charging points at different locations countrywide.

A collage image of electric vehicles being charged.
A collage image of electric vehicles being charged.
COURTESY

Kenya Power applied for a new special tariff stipulating new charges for customers using electric vehicles.  

Managing Director Geoffrey Muli explained that the new venture would increase its customer base and raise revenue for the struggling entity.