Is Embakasi’s Neo Kenya’s hottest matatu? Neo, which operates along the Nairobi CBD to Embakasi route, is inspired by Keanu Reeves’s character in the Matrix movie. The black matatu features linear green inscriptions, just like in the movie. The investor went all out on the project, and the front grill is from a Nissan Navara vehicle. However, one of the most outstanding features is the side mirrors. The owner splurged over KSh 80,000 for the side mirrors from a Mercedes Actros truck. Neo epitomises a nganya (souped-up matatu), which commonly features stylish offcut rims. The extravagance is extended into the matatu’s interior. The predominantly black and green themes were carried over into the interior. The back of each seat features a TV screen, and a couple are mounted on the sides. A huge TCV, presumably an 84-inch, is mounted right behind the driver’s cabin, bringing the total to over 10. Benson Ombima, a tout along the route, said the vehicle caused a buzz after hitting the road, but not without competition. “The other day, Neo faced off against Steampunk at the Fedha stage. Interestingly, most passengers boarded Steampunk.” The cost of the project was not lost on Kenyan, who reacted by saying: Amoh Gregga Isaacs: “Those side mirrors cost KSh 80k!” Lace Child: “How do these investors recoup their money?” Dan Kibet: “Matatu owners spend so much on souping up vehicles, but investing in good customer service is where they draw the line.” Ken Waweru: “Do they detach the side mirrors every evening or park it in a police station?”
BY TUKO NEWS