Rivian-Backed Also Steps Away From Kenya Electric Motorcycle Project

Also, Inc., created from Rivian’s micromobility business in 2025, said it had left an early-stage electric motorcycle project in Kenya and was directing its near-term attention to autonomous vehicles.

Also co-founder and president Chris Yu linked the decision to the pace of autonomous-vehicle development. In an October interview, he said the “urgency and pace around autonomy” made a near-term focus on that work the best use of the company’s attention.

Also said it explored the Kenya effort with an unnamed partner, completed early work and then chose to prioritize its core roadmap. The proposal described a locally integrated electric two-wheeler, plans for modular battery design and testing a distributed-charging system, with potential expansion across East Africa.

The Shell Foundation framed the proposed pilot as a way to assess potential driver-income gains, operating performance and commercial viability. The design also included a motorcycle intended for African riders.

Also had announced a multiyear commercial collaboration with DoorDash on autonomous delivery in March. On Aug. 19, it announced a $150 million Series D and said the funding would accelerate development of its autonomous-vehicle platform.

Rivian held a 35.3% ownership interest in Also as of March 31, 2026.