The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on the decarbonisation of Africa’s commercial motorbike transport system.

As its primary hardware supplier, Ampersand will purchase BYD’s high-tech battery cells to build around 40,000 electric motorcycles by the end of 2026, with the long-term goal of electrifying a large portion of Africa’s 30 million commercial motorbikes. 

The partnership with BYD will enable Ampersand to rapidly scale its electric fleet and its charging infrastructure, which is already the largest in Rwanda and Kenya. This continued scaling will allow Ampersand to meet the increasing demand for commercial motorcycles across Africa as its cities expand and riders increase, providing a sustainable solution to support the continent’s economic growth. 

Josh Whale, CEO of Ampersand, said: “This partnership marks a major milestone for Ampersand as we continue to lead the charge in providing sustainable, cost-effective, mass-market EV solutions. 

“BYD’s world-leading battery cells and manufacturing scale, combined with Ampersand’s deep customer insight and technical product knowledge will help fast-track the electrification of Africa’s commercial motorcycles.

“Switching the millions of taxi and delivery two-wheelers to EV energy tech represents one of the world’s best value-for-money decarbonisation opportunities. At the same time, this transformation will save millions of hardworking motorcycle riders six hundred dollars each a year, driving clean economic prosperity.”

BYD’s cutting-edge lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells have a long lifespan, an excellent safety record and are affordable for everyday users, making them ideal for mass-market electrification. 

Sihai Zhang, BYD Company, said: “Ampersand’s electric motorbike technology and charging network, along with its excellent customer understanding, make the company stand out to BYD as the clear pioneer in the electrification of Africa’s transport system. 

“Electrifying the intensively used commercial motorcycles found across Africa is a logical first step to decarbonising a very large potential market of motorcycles across the Global South.” 

At the same time as decarbonising transport, electric two-wheelers clean up the air and save drivers on average 45% a year on fuel and maintenance, improving lives and livelihoods – driving entrepreneurship and social mobility.

Kagiso Khaole, Uber’s General Manager for sub-Saharan Africa, shared that after the successful launch in Kenya, the electric motorbike service will be rolled out in several other African countries. Uber plans to expand to Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Africa later this year.

The innovative service, named “Electric Boda” is a nod to the Swahili term for motorbike taxis. Within the first six months, Uber aims to have 3,000 electric bikes in its fleet, representing nearly a fifth of its total motorbike fleet in the country.

Uber’s electric motorbikes offer significant advantages to both drivers and users. Drivers can expect a remarkable 30-35% reduction in their operating costs, making it a financially beneficial opportunity for them. On the other hand, platform users will enjoy cost savings of 15-20% compared to regular Uber motorbike trips.

In addition to economic benefits, the introduction of electric motorbikes will also enhance the overall riding experience. “You will experience lower vibrations and less sound,” mentioned Khaole, highlighting the improved comfort and reduced noise pollution for both riders and the community.

With the launch of this eco-friendly service, Uber is taking a noteworthy step towards reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a greener future. By gradually replacing conventional motorbikes with electric ones, the company is making a positive impact on the environment and promoting sustainability.

The new development aligns with Kenya’s drive to be a leader in green transport, with over 90% of its power generated from renewable sources. Notably, the country has been establishing itself as a hub for sustainable practices and renewable energy.

However, the growth of the electric vehicle market in Africa has been hampered by the lack of sufficient charging infrastructure. To address this issue, local firms have been establishing battery-swapping stations in major cities like Nairobi, aiming to expedite the charging process for electric vehicles.

Kenya’s President William Ruto’s aspiration to increase the number of electric motorbikes on the road from 2,000 to more than 200,000 by the end of 2024 aligns with Uber’s commitment to a greener future. Motorbike transport, a prominent source of employment in Kenya, provides a lifeline for millions who are unable to secure formal employment.

Uber’s announcement was met with enthusiasm by Frans Hiemstra, the Director and Regional General Manager for Uber Middle East and Africa. Hiemstra emphasized that the launch of the Electric Boda service was a significant step towards sustainable practices and an integral part of Uber’s journey towards a zero-emissions platform.

The electric motorbikes themselves, boasting an 80-kilometer range, are managed by Greenwheels Africa, an e-mobility company focused on electrifying motorbikes. The arrangement allows Greenwheels to handle bike-related logistical matters, including maintenance and charging. Charging stations will be set up by Greenwheels across Kenya, with plans to increase the count from a few to ten by the end of the year.

Unlike traditional charging methods, riders won’t be tasked with charging the batteries themselves. Instead, depleted batteries will be exchanged for fully charged ones at Greenwheels Africa’s stations. Imran Manji, Uber’s Head of East Africa, clarified that riders would be charged for the batteries based on usage.

The launch of Electric Boda will enhance Kenya’s transportation landscape. As the nation embraces sustainable practices and works towards reducing its carbon footprint, Uber’s electric motorbike service sets a commendable example for the transportation industry’s shift towards eco-friendly alternatives.