Two Cuban content creators, known to their audience as Mario and Alieski, recently celebrated a significant milestone both in their personal lives and their YouTube channel's growth: the acquisition of their first electric vehicle. This Chinese-made tricycle, affectionately named "the channel's tripilingo," marks a transformative step for the duo.
Their journey was documented in a detailed and heartfelt video, where they shared the joy and excitement of this achievement, made possible by the financial support of two subscribers from the United States. This purchase not only enhances their quality of life but also serves as a crucial tool for continuing their content creation amidst Cuba's challenging transportation landscape.
The Generosity Behind the Wheels
The electric tricycle, dubbed the tripilingo, was purchased thanks to the generosity of Maricela and Julio, a subscriber couple who have long followed the channel's adventures. Upon learning about Mario and Alieski's efforts to save for their own transportation, the couple reached out directly to fund the entire purchase.
The cost of the tripilingo amounted to $4,500, a substantial sum in the Cuban context, which the YouTubers noted could equate to the price of a house in some areas of the country. For Mario and Alieski, who were used to covering long distances on foot or by renting transport to travel between their home, a family farm, and their grandmother's house, this tricycle is more than a luxury—it's a logistical, economic, and emotional necessity.
Navigating the Challenges of Purchase
"This isn't just help; it's life-changing," they expressed enthusiastically in their video. "We no longer have to walk under the scorching sun, pay exorbitant transport fees, or rent cars to get around. Now we can comfortably film our adventures and continue helping others," they added.
The search for the right vehicle was lengthy and fraught with challenges. Many electric tricycles available in Cuba are sold through social media channels, lacking legal backing or warranties. During their search, Mario and Alieski encountered numerous online scams, with sellers insisting on upfront payments from the U.S. and promising direct delivery to Cuba.
"We were offered tricycles for $2,600, but the deal required advance payment, with the promise of shipping from the U.S. It was a scam. We refused to make any deal without seeing the vehicle in person," they warned.
Eventually, they secured the purchase through a private sale on Facebook. The seller, who had initially bought the tricycle for personal use, provided a reliable and safe transaction. With the donation from their subscribers, Mario and Alieski were able to complete the purchase face-to-face.
The Journey to Their New Ride
The adventure didn't end with the purchase. Transporting the tripilingo to Pinar del Río presented its own set of challenges. The YouTubers traveled by bus to Havana, where a rented cargo truck awaited to carry the vehicle from Mariel. The process of loading the tricycle was complex, and the journey was filled with tense moments, including a truck bed issue that nearly jeopardized the tricycle's stability, and the learning curve of driving it was just beginning.
"We'd never driven anything before. We didn't even know how to turn on the lights. But we're learning gradually, with the help of 'the channel's uncle,' Raudel, who has been essential throughout this process," they recounted with laughter.
The arrival of the tripilingo at the family farm was met with cheers and excitement. The video captures the initial reactions, test rides, technical adjustments, and the shared joy with their community.
With over 80,000 subscribers on their main channel "Mario Alieski TV" and more than 6,000 on their secondary channel "Alieski Mario Blogs," the creators have built a strong, empathetic, and active digital community that has become a vital part of their lives.
"YouTube has been magical. We never imagined that people who don't know us personally would offer us so much support. This is a dream come true and a necessity fulfilled, thanks to the affection of our followers," they said, visibly moved.
FAQs on Electric Tricycle Purchase in Cuba
What prompted Mario and Alieski to buy an electric tricycle?
The electric tricycle was a logistical, economic, and emotional necessity for Mario and Alieski, allowing them to create content more efficiently amid transportation challenges in Cuba.
Who funded the purchase of the tripilingo?
The purchase was funded by two subscribers from the United States, Maricela and Julio, who have been long-time supporters of Mario and Alieski's YouTube channel.
How did Mario and Alieski avoid scams during their purchase?
They avoided scams by refusing to make any deals without seeing the vehicle in person, ultimately purchasing the tricycle through a reliable private sale on Facebook.