There are 320 million people in Africa with no access to transportation – a problem that impedes education, health and the economy, according to Mobius Motors CEO Joel Jackson.

A car that costs only US$6 000 is the proposed solution to these problems. The Mobius Two will be designed to handle the tough terrain of Africa, with the main focus being suspension, handling and ground clearance, and will be able to transport up to eight people. It is a no-frills automobile designed for a specific reason.

Because the vehicle will be able to carry heavy loads as well as transport up to eight people, Jackson sees it becoming the vehicle used for small emerging transport and medicine delivery businesses. “It creates a platform for mobility,” Jackson said during his talk earlier this week at TED Global, making reference to the car’s ability to physically move people and also advance their socioeconomic standing.

Kenya will be the first African country to be able to purchase the vehicle. With an average middle class income of between US$10 000 and US$20 000 per year, massive adoption will be a challenge. Jackson believes the creative options that have already been established for financing other types of African businesses could also help get more people behind the wheel.