Senegal-based e-mobility and energy solutions startup Solarbox Africa has closed a US$1 million pre-seed funding round to help it meet growing demand for its solar-powered electric vehicles (EVs) in Senegal and the broader West African region.
Founded in 2022 by Tijan Watt and incubated under Wuri Ventures, Solarbox designs, assembles, and deploys light electric vehicles, including two- and three-wheelers tailored for corporate clients.
The startup integrates solar charging systems, flexible financing models, and fleet management solutions into its offerings, catering to businesses seeking sustainable transportation alternatives.
Solarbox’s US$1 million pre-seed round was led by a consortium of investors, including Digital Energy Facility – a collaboration between Agence Française de Développement (AFD), IetP, and Gaia Impact Fund – alongside Launch Africa Ventures, JLL Foundation, and Teranga Capital.
The company plans to use the pre-seed funding to scale production, deepen its market presence in Senegal, and explore opportunities in neighbouring countries.
“Instead of importing millions of tonnes of petroleum annually, Senegal can harness its abundant sunlight. With transportation accounting for 40 per cent of Africa’s energy needs and over US$40 billion in fuel imports annually, solar-powered mobility offers a transformative opportunity,” Watt said.
