A partnership between CAKE electric motorbikes, the Southern African Wildlife College and Goal Zero has produced a solar-powered electric motorbike aimed at helping Africa’s anti-poaching rangers protect endangered wildlife. Called the Kalk AP, the motorbike will solve some of the most prevalent issues that park rangers face.

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Across Africa, anti-poaching rangers regularly use motorbikes to patrol protected areas. The bikes, however, run on expensive or inaccessible gasoline, while the loud engine noises make it virtually impossible to sneak up on poachers. The goal of CAKE’s new electric motorbike is to provide a sustainable alternative that is energy-efficient, all without warning poachers from miles away. At just 176 pounds, the motorbike boasts over three hours of ride time and speeds of up to 56 miles per hour.

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“Solar power, new technology, and a new category of vehicles that help save endangered species in Africa. This is a perfect example of purpose meeting sustainability,” said Stefan Ytterborn, founder and CEO of CAKE. “We are extremely honored to be able to work with our partners on this initiative and to contribute to developing the means to help curb poaching in the region.”

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To fund the initiative, the company is enabling a “buy-one-give-one” charity campaign where CAKE and Goal Zero will donate profits from the sales directly to the Southern African Wildlife College. For each Kalk AP purchased, CAKE will make an identical bike to be donated to conservation areas throughout African countries where they are most needed. Purchases also contribute to solar panel and power station kits that connect the bikes to a communal power grid.

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The Southern African Wildlife College will begin testing the bikes later in 2021 along with the Goal Zero solar kits that come with them as part of the operation’s educational curriculum and training. The bike and a solar panel/kit start at $25,000, and deliveries are expected to start in September.

+ CAKE

Images via CAKE