CAKE , the Swedish electric motorbike manufacturer , has successfully delivered the first batch of electric anti-poaching bush bikes to Africa . The quiet and high performance Kalk AP motorbikes were delivered to rangers who are in the process of testing the bikes under the research and development department of the Southern African Wildlife College ( SAWC ). They are now beginning to use the bikes in their quest to increase the efficiency , to combat poaching .
Poaching has had devastating consequences for wildlife in Africa and is one of the primary reasons that some species face the risk of extinction . Anti-poaching teams have used gas-powered dirt bikes for patrolling because they are considered the fastest and most agile vehicles in the bush . However , these bikes are loud and alert poachers from kilometres away with the sound of their engines . The next big issue is that fuel is being brought to the field by helicopters or trucks which pollute and impact the environment .
In collaboration with the Southern African Wildlife College , the team at CAKE developed a bike built for the unique challenges of driving in the African bush , and the harsh environments it would encounter . The Kalk AP combines the proven off-road performance ability of the Kalk OR with a lightweight frame , sealed drivetrain , and more robust suspension . And since it ’ s almost silent it ’ s easier to move around without alerting poachers . A mobile solar charging station designed and produced by Goal Zero allows rangers to take the bikes deep into bush and operate far from the confines of both the electrical grid as well as traditional fuel supply lines .
“ It ’ s great to see that the first batch of Kalk APs has made it to Africa , ready to change the game when it comes to fighting poaching in the most threatened wildlife areas ," explained CAKE ' s founder and CEO , Stefan Ytterborn . " With fast , quiet and solar-powered driven bikes , we increase our chances of countering poaching and can truly make an impact in the region .
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