A powerful collaboration between Ampersand, a leading African electric transport company, and BYD, the global giant in electric vehicles, is set to shift Africa’s commercial motorbike transport sector.

This landmark partnership aims to tackle environmental concerns and improve the livelihoods of motorbike taxi drivers through large-scale electrification.

Shifting Gears Towards a Sustainable Future

The core objective of this partnership is to decarbonise Africa’s motorbike transport system. Ampersand will leverage BYD’s expertise in lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery cells to manufacture a staggering 40,000 electric motorcycles by the end of 2026.

This ambitious target represents just the initial phase of a long-term vision to electrify a significant portion of Africa’s motorbike fleet, currently dominated by gasoline-powered vehicles.

Economic and Environmental Benefits for All

“This transition to electric motorbike technology presents a unique opportunity to achieve cost-effective decarbonisation,” stated Josh Whale, CEO of Ampersand Energy.

“By adopting electric motorbikes, not only will we be cleaning the air, but we’ll also empower drivers by significantly reducing their fuel and maintenance expenses, an estimated saving of $600 per year.”

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BYD’s LFP batteries are ideally suited for this large-scale electrification effort. Renowned for their durability, safety, and affordability, these batteries offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution.

This switch to electric power is projected to deliver an average annual saving of 45% on fuel and maintenance costs for drivers, translating to a significant boost in their daily income while contributing to a cleaner environment for everyone.

Ampersand: A Trailblazer in Electric Mobility

BYD recognises Ampersand’s pioneering role in electrifying Africa’s transportation sector. Sihai Zhang from BYD highlighted Ampersand’s expertise in electric motorbike technology, their extensive charging network infrastructure, and their deep understanding of the customer base.

“Electrifying Africa’s heavily used commercial motorbikes is a logical first step,” Zhang remarked, “paving the way for a broader shift towards sustainable transportation across the Global South.”

Ampersand is no stranger to success. They currently boast a fleet of 3,000 zero-emission electric motorcycles, the largest in Rwanda and Kenya. This partnership with BYD will empower Ampersand to accelerate the growth of their electric fleet and further expand their charging infrastructure.

Ampersand: Powering Progress, One Ride at a Time

A closer look at Ampersand’s impact reveals a powerful story. Their efforts have already resulted in avoiding nearly 8,000 tonnes of emissions, with their electric motorbikes having surpassed 105 million kilometres driven.

More importantly, Ampersand’s model has demonstrably improved the lives of drivers. Their riders typically work long hours, covering vast distances each day.

The transition to electric motorbikes has translated to a remarkable 45% increase in daily income, with drivers saving an average of 40% annually on fuel costs.

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The income generated by these drivers often supports an average of 4.4 people, highlighting the far-reaching positive impact of Ampersand’s mission. Ampersand bikes boast a 72-km range and hit speeds of 80 kph, with a starting cash price of Ksh 185,000 and a Ksh 185 charge per battery.

A Brighter, Cleaner Future for Africa

Ampersand’s unwavering commitment to electric mobility, coupled with BYD’s cutting-edge battery technology, presents a powerful formula for transforming Africa’s transportation landscape.

This collaboration promises cleaner air, a more sustainable future, and a significant boost to the livelihoods of countless motorbike taxi drivers across the continent.