Revitalizing Transportation: The Journey of Mobius Motors in Kenya
Joel Jackson founded Mobius Motors in Kenya, inspired by local transportation challenges. The company aimed to create affordable vehicles customized for rural terrains. Despite initial success with model Mobius I and later Mobius II, it faced overwhelming competition and financial losses, leading to liquidation in 2024. A takeover by a Middle Eastern firm in 2025 has revived the company, with plans for new models ahead.
In 2008, British entrepreneur Joel Jackson found himself in rural Kenya while working with a micro-forestry social enterprise. Unexpectedly, this experience would lead him to establish Mobius Motors, the first Kenyan company to design and manufacture vehicles from scratch. Jackson’s exposure to the challenges faced in rural transportation due to poor road infrastructure and the high cost of vehicles prompted him to create affordable solutions tailored for Kenya’s roads.
Jackson identified a market gap for vehicles that were both affordable and durable for the harsh terrains of rural Kenya. Recognizing the inadequacies of imported models and traditional vehicles, he envisioned a locally designed vehicle. Despite lacking a background in automotive engineering, Jackson researched low-cost vehicle design and partnered with engineers to produce an initial prototype, leading to the official formation of Mobius Motors Kenya Ltd in Nairobi in 2010.
The inaugural prototype, named Mobius I, was a basic yet sturdy vehicle with a tubular steel frame suitable for rough terrain. Although it was not initially intended for mass production, it attracted significant early investment, which facilitated the transition to Mobius II—launched in 2014 and priced at approximately Ksh1 million ($10,000). This model became known as the most affordable new car in Kenya, with production based on local and imported components.
Despite improvements to models, including the enhanced Mobius II with upgraded features, Mobius faced substantial challenges. The company struggled to compete with low-priced second-hand imports and was burdened by high taxation, resulting in significant financial losses, with projected losses exceeding one hundred million shillings for 2024.
In 2024, the financial strain led to internal conflicts, resulting in Jackson’s removal as Chief Executive Officer. Mobius Motors announced its entry into voluntary liquidation, marking the end of its decade-long journey in automotive development. However, a turnaround occurred in early 2025 when a Middle Eastern investment firm expressed interest in acquiring the company, signaling a new beginning. The new ownership confirmed resumed operations and planning for the forthcoming Mobius 3 model, with full production expected by mid-2025.
The new leadership aims to fulfill Jackson’s vision while charting a path for future success. As the automotive industry evolves in Kenya, the next steps for Mobius Motors remain to be seen, particularly regarding Jackson’s ongoing involvement in the sector.
In summary, Joel Jackson’s venture into Mobius Motors exemplifies the potential for innovation in addressing local transportation challenges. From humble beginnings in rural Kenya to notable achievements in vehicle design, the company’s journey has faced significant obstacles, leading to liquidation yet promising rejuvenation through new ownership. The future of Mobius Motors holds the possibility of fulfilling its original mission of providing affordable and practical vehicles tailored to the Kenyan market.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
