Senegal’s Solarbox Secures $1 Million Pre-Seed Funding for E-Mobility Innovations

Senegal-based startup Solarbox is revolutionising the intersection of renewable energy and electric mobility in West Africa. The company has raised $1 million in pre-seed funding, a significant milestone aimed at scaling its solar-powered e-mobility solutions within Senegal and expanding into neighbouring regions.

Founded in 2022 by Tijan Watt, Solarbox has positioned itself as a leader in clean mobility. Its flagship offerings include solar-charged electric two- and three-wheelers designed to reduce reliance on traditional charging infrastructure. These vehicles address critical environmental challenges by minimising carbon emissions and leveraging Senegal’s abundant solar energy.

“Instead of importing millions of tonnes of petroleum annually, Senegal can harness its abundant sunlight,” said Watt. “With transportation accounting for 40% of energy needs, solar-powered mobility offers a transformative opportunity.”

The pre-seed funding round was led by a mix of angel investors and venture capital firms, including Digital Energy Facility, Launch Africa Ventures, JLL Foundation, and Teranga Capital. These organisations share a commitment to advancing renewable energy and sustainable technologies across Africa.

The $1 million investment will be channelled into critical areas such as research and development, scaling production capabilities, and extending Solarbox’s reach to key urban markets. This funding marks a pivotal moment for the startup as it aims to disrupt the traditional transportation model by integrating sustainability into urban mobility solutions.

Solarbox’s innovation comes at a crucial time for Senegal, where transportation accounts for a significant portion of energy consumption. By offering affordable and eco-friendly alternatives, the startup is not only reducing emissions but also addressing the country’s dependency on imported petroleum.

The success of Solarbox aligns with a broader push for renewable energy solutions in Africa. With its strategic focus on sustainable e-mobility, the company could pave the way for similar ventures across the continent. Solar-powered mobility has the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and promote environmental resilience in urban areas.