10 African companies driving forward e-mobility on the continent
Accelerating sustainable mobility in Sub-Saharan Africa
Hello everyone,
it will hopefully only be a matter of time for Sub-Saharan Africa to transition from being a “dumping ground” for old vehicles to a leader in the production and adoption of electric vehicles.
The region, responsible for about 10% of global emissions from mobility, faces increasing environmental risks with an increasing number of vehicles. However, embracing electric vehicles early on - in combination with the region’s renewable energy resources - can mitigate these impacts.
With growing momentum - especially in East Africa - we want to shine a spotlight today on 10 companies driving forward the e-mobility revolution on the African continent.
Introduction: E-Mobility in Sub-Saharan Africa
Increasing road transport poses environmental challenges
In sub-Saharan Africa, transportation mainly happens by road - especially with motorcycles and buses, as personal car ownership is low.
However, with a growing urbanization and rising incomes, this is set to change leading to more vehicles hitting the road, and increasing emissions.
This effect could be mitigated by an early adoption of electric vehicles.
However, the transition to electric vehicles in the region faces several challenges including affordability, inadequate infrastructure, and low consumer awareness.
Enabling the shift to e-mobility
To effectively transition to electric mobility, four critical enablers have been identified:
Expansion of electricity access and development of charging infrastructure.
Promotion of local production of electric vehicles.
Implementation of supportive regulations and incentives.
Provision of financing options to lower entry barriers.
Growth in electric motorcycles
Electric motorcycles are becoming more and more popular thanks to their affordability and commercial viability.
The region, especially East Africa, is witnessing a surge in e-mobility startups focusing on local assembly and distribution of e-motorcycles and e-buses, underscoring a robust growth in EV sales.
To learn more, check out one of our former deep-dives on E-Mobility in Sub-Saharan Africa.
10 players driving forward the e-mobility production and adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa
1. Spiro (Benin, Togo, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya)
Spiro manufactures electric two-wheelers, partnering with Horwin to boost electric mobility manufacturing across Africa.
They focus on local assembly plants for bikes and batteries, promoting local jobs and sustainable transport solutions.
2. Ampersand (Rwanda, Kenya)
Established in 2016, Ampersand assembles and finances electric motorcycles and operates a battery-swap network in Kigali allowing drivers to exchange batteries at various charging stations around the city.
With recent funding rounds boosting their capacity, Ampersand aims to significantly expand their fleet and swapping stations, pursuing an ambitious target to serve 1,000,000 vehicles by 2030.
3. Roam (Kenya)
Formerly known as Opibus, Roam is based in Kenya and focuses on creating electric buses and motorcycles designed for the African market. Their products are tailored for affordability and durability in rough terrain.
A recent $24 million funding boost will scale up their production and innovation in electric vehicle technology.
4. BasiGo (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania)
Launched in 2021 in Kenya, BasiGo provides electric buses, enhancing public transport with cleaner, cost-effective alternatives. The company has already made considerable progress, with plans to deploy 1,000 electric buses across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania by the end of 2025.
Their Pay-As-You-Drive model makes these buses more accessible by mitigating high upfront costs. This model includes covering the leasing of the bus battery, charging, and maintenance costs for a per-kilometer fee.
5. Metro Africa Xpress (Nigeria, Ghana)
Founded in 2015, MAX started as a logistics startup and has evolved into a comprehensive provider of transportation solutions, including electric vehicles (EVs).
In 2021, MAX raised $31 million in a Series B funding round, which has facilitated its expansion into new markets like Ghana and plans for further expansion into other African countries.
MAX's approach includes a vehicle subscription service aimed at making electric vehicles more affordable and accessible.
6. eWAKA (Kenya, Rwanda)
Based in Kenya, eWAKA provides sustainable mobility solutions in Africa, including electric scooters and bicycles. eWAKA focuses on personal and shared mobility to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
The company's approach includes the integration of sophisticated IT capabilities to enhance the efficiency and safety of their vehicles through features like real-time tracking, geofencing, and performance metric monitoring.
7. SolarTaxi (Ghana)
Established by Jorge Appiah in 2018, SolarTaxi aims to lead the e-mobility landscape in West Africa by providing a range of electric vehicles, from motorcycles to cars.
One of the most notable initiatives by SolarTaxi is the development of its ride-hailing platform, which is exclusively powered by electric vehicles.
As SolarTaxi continues to grow, it not only aims to expand its fleet and service offerings but also to innovate in the area of EV infrastructure, such as setting up solar charging stations.
8. eBee (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda)
Launched in late 2021, eBee Africa focuses on economical electric bicycles, providing cost-effective and sustainable urban transport. Their e-bikes are designed to be 2-3 times cheaper to operate than e-motorbikes and conventional motorbikes, with the added benefit of zero fuel costs.
They not only sell and rent e-bicycles but also manage a fleet for last-mile delivery services. eBee Africa’s operations are supported by technological innovations such as integrated smart Battery Management Systems (BMS) and GPS for efficient fleet management and easy charging
9. Bodawerk (Uganda)
Bodawerk is actively advancing electric mobility in Uganda with a strong focus on converting traditional petrol-powered vehicles into electric versions.
Bodawerk's innovation extends to creating a flexible energy storage solution that integrates with various applications like electric outboard boat motors and home power systems.
This approach is particularly impactful as it leverages recycled materials, such as laptop batteries, to create affordable, sustainable products that address transportation needs.
10. Zembo (Uganda)
Zembo provides electric motorcycles to boda boda riders under a lease-to-own model, coupled with a network of solar-powered battery stations to promote sustainable transport and economic opportunities.
This network allows drivers to swap depleted batteries for fully charged ones, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency on the roads.
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Thanks for reading,
Carolin
Disclaimer: All information provided is not intended to serve as investment advice. Any mention of industries or countries should not be taken as an endorsement.