So, you’ve made the switch to a silent, eco-friendly electric bajaj? Congratulations! You are part of Ethiopia’s journey toward a sustainable future. While electric vehicles (EVs) are much easier to maintain than petrol ones, they still require a specific type of care to ensure they last for years on our unique terrain.
1. Battery is King
The battery is the most expensive part of your vehicle. To maximize its life:
- Avoid Total Depletion: Don’t wait until the battery is at 0% to charge it. Try to keep it between 20% and 80% for daily use.
- Use Original Chargers: Always use the charger provided by the manufacturer. Fluctuating voltage can be an issue, so consider using a stabilizer if your charging point isn’t regulated.
2. Care for the Tyres and Brakes
Because electric motors provide instant power (torque), you might find yourself accelerating faster than you did in a petrol bajaj. This can wear out tyres more quickly.
- Check your tyre pressure weekly. Correct pressure reduces the strain on the motor and helps your battery last longer per charge.
- Regenerative Braking: Many new e-bajajs have “regen” braking, which helps charge the battery when you slow down. Learn to use this effectively to save your brake pads!
3. Suspension and Dust
Ethiopia can be dusty, and our roads can be bumpy.
- Keep it Clean: Dust can settle in electrical ports. Use a dry cloth to keep the charging port and motor housing clean. Avoid spraying high-pressure water directly into electrical components.
- Tighten Bolts: Regularly check the suspension bolts. The silence of the electric motor makes it easier to hear “rattles”—don’t ignore them!
4. Software Updates
Some modern electric tuk-tuks come with smart controllers. Occasionally, the manufacturer might offer a software “tune-up” to improve battery efficiency. Stay in touch with your local dealer in Addis or Dire Dawa to ensure your vehicle is running the latest settings.
The future of Ethiopian transport is electric. By taking care of your e-bajaj, you’re protecting your investment and our environment!