First published 10 November, 2024
Electric motorbikes and scooters are seen as the future of e-mobility in Africa due to infrastructural challenges, government policies, and economic factors. Sales of motorbikes, known as bodaboda in East Africa, have surpassed those of private cars in sub-Saharan Africa. By 2030, motorcycle sales in the region are projected to exceed three million, with an electrification rate of 22%, higher than other vehicle types.
Over 200 million people in Africa use motorbikes for various purposes, with 100 million in East Africa relying on them as their primary mode of transport. These two-wheelers play a crucial role in public transportation systems and are essential for connecting remote areas to markets and healthcare facilities.
Africa’s move towards e-mobility is supported by the implementation of fiscal incentives and e-mobility targets in over half of 21 African countries. Countries like Kenya have developed national e-mobility policies to promote local battery manufacturing and recycling, leading to the emergence of several electric vehicle startups.
Next Wave continues after this ad.
Rwanda’s Ampersand and Spiro from Kenya have made significant strides in the e-motorbike market with thousands of units in operation. The lower operating costs of electric two-wheelers make them more financially viable for riders compared to fuel motorcycles, resulting in higher earnings.
Local production capacity and investment in charging infrastructure have reduced the cost of electric two-wheelers, making them more accessible to a wider population in Africa. This accessibility, coupled with lower maintenance costs, positions e-motorbikes as a preferred option over electric cars in the region.
For gig economy workers, companies like Uganda’s Zembo offer motorbike leasing models that further lower the barrier to EV ownership. Battery leasing and pay-as-you-go models implemented by EV startups have proven to be cost-effective for riders, enhancing their earning potential.
Next Wave continues after this ad.