Stroom: Empowering South Africa’s Green Economy Through E-Cargo Innovation

Posted by Breggie Hoffman on 20 May 2025, 14:50 SAST

A transformative venture is redefining urban logistics and catalyzing the green economy: Stroom.

Stroom designs and manufactures electric cargo bikes (e-cargo bikes) tailored for last-mile delivery, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional delivery vehicles.
By integrating social innovation with environmental stewardship, Stroom is not only reducing carbon emissions but also creating economic opportunities in underserved communities.

Revolutionizing Urban Mobility

Stroom’s locally produced e-cargo bikes, built in Stellenbosch, include long-johns, long-tails, and self-propelled trailers, are engineered to navigate South Africa’s diverse terrains.
These vehicles boast impressive capabilities, with some models handling up to 225 kg of cargo. Their design facilitates efficient deliveries in congested urban areas and narrow township streets, where conventional vehicles often falter.

Beyond hardware, Stroom offers a comprehensive ecosystem:

IoT-Enabled Fleet Management: Real-time tracking, remote locking, and incident detection ensure operational efficiency.
Solar-Powered Charging Stations: Strategically placed hubs provide renewable energy solutions for charging and maintenance.
Driver Training Programs: Accessible courses empower individuals, including those without driver’s licenses, to operate e-cargo bikes safely and effectively.

This holistic approach not only promotes sustainable transportation but also lowers barriers to entry for aspiring entrepreneurs in the logistics sector.

Expanding Globally, Rooted Locally

Stroom’s new factory in Stellenbosch is now fully operational, marking a major milestone in their growth journey. Impressively, while all their products continue to be proudly manufactured in South Africa, Stroom has already made its first export to Japan.
They have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Jatco — a multinational subsidiary of Nissan — opening doors to new global collaborations.

To showcase their innovations, Stroom has exhibited alongside Jatco at some of the world’s largest international cycling events, including the Taipei Cycle Show, and major exhibitions in Shanghai, Frankfurt, Utrecht, and Paris.
These global partnerships are helping to position South African-built green technology firmly on the international stage.

At the same time, Stroom remains deeply committed to community impact at home.
Recently, they launched a major rollout in Soweto in collaboration with SHOVeBIKE, creating new employment opportunities for youth and women to deliver sustainable, cost-effective logistics solutions directly within their communities.

Fostering Economic Empowerment

Stroom’s e-cargo bikes are not just reducing emissions — they’re creating opportunities:

2,500 jobs by 2025 through the deployment of their bikes and logistics hubs.
Strengthening township businesses through partnerships like SHOVeBIKE.
Opening logistics jobs to youth, women, and others traditionally excluded from the sector.

Stroom proves that green innovation can drive real economic inclusion.

Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals

Stroom’s work directly supports a greener, more resilient future:

Lower carbon emissions compared to traditional delivery vehicles.
90% components locally sourced, reducing supply chain emissions and boosting local industries.
Global exhibitions at major shows like Taipei, Frankfurt, and Paris, showcasing South African innovation internationally.

Stroom is putting South African green tech firmly on the global map.

Stroom’s Social Media

References & Further Reading

Photo Credits

Image 1: Stroom e-Cargo Bikes collaborating with SHOVeBIKE in Soweto. Source: LinkedIn - GreenCape Green Pitch Challenge
Image 2, 3, and 4: Stroom e-Cargo Bikes collaborating with SHOVeBIKE in Soweto Source: LinkedIn - Stroom
Image 5: Stroom e-Cargo Bikes showcased at the International Cargo Bike Festival. Source: International Cargo Bike Festival
Image 6 and 7: Jatco exhibit at Taipei Cycle Show. Stroom will be exhibiting with them in Shanghai, Frankfurt, Utrecht and Paris. Source Bouwer Van Niekerk
Image 8: GreenCape Green Pitch Challenge: LinkedIn - GreenCape
Image 9: Stroom exhibit at the VUKA Green Economy Summit. Source: VUKA Group

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