As the founder of Sheger Wedding Store, Kibrom Hagos runs a time-sensitive business. His company imports specialized event equipment and delivers it directly to venues, hotels, and clients across the capital. In an industry where a late delivery can ruin a wedding or corporate event, vehicle reliability is non-negotiable.
Yet, when Kibrom initially tested the first generation of imported electric scooters hitting the local market, the experience was a not so greate.
Hearing the Signal in the Noise
The turning point came during an episode of a local business podcast. Kibrom caught an interview discussing a new venture named Dodai, which was assembling lithium-ion electric motorcycles specifically designed for African urban terrain. Dodai was introducing lithium-ion battery packs, local service centers, and structured warranty guarantees.
Shortly after hearing the podcast, Kibrom noticed Dodai’s showroom near his office in the 22 area. Rather than waiting for others to test the waters, he walked in, evaluated the technology firsthand, and decided to take a bold leap of faith: he bought two Dodai electric bikes, becoming one of the company’s very first commercial clients.
Three Years on the Road: The Ultimate Proof of Concept
Taking a chance on an unproven startup was a risk, but three years of daily operations have completely vindicated Kibrom’s decision.
Over three years of rigorous daily use across Addis Ababa’s demanding slopes and traffic, Kibrom’s fleet has achieved remarkable results. Unlike the early market failures, Dodai’s lithium-ion batteries continue to hold their range. His delivery drivers have logged thousands of kilometers over three years with zero accidents or safety incidents. Dodai provided over a year of complimentary maintenance and repairs, minimizing downtime for Sheger Wedding Store’s deliveries.
From Early Believer to Fleet Expansion
Today, electric mobility is rapidly sweeping through Ethiopia’s commercial sector, driven by national green energy initiatives and expanding battery-swapping networks. But while larger companies are only now jumping on the trend, Kibrom Hagos was there at day one.
Currently operating three Dodai bikes, Kibrom is preparing to expand his fleet with Dodai’s latest higher-range TS-1 model as traffic management and infrastructure continue to evolve. His early leap of faith didn’t just transform his business logistics—it proved that sustainable, electric urban transport in Addis Ababa isn’t a distant promise, but a practical reality.