BYD, a Chinese EV company, and Ampersand, an African EV battery company based in Kigali, Rwanda, have signed an agreement to work together on electric motorbikes in Africa.
The agreement aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels for commercial motorbikes in Africa. Ampersand will buy batteries from BYD to build 40,000 electric motorbikes by the end of 2026. This is part of a larger goal to electrify Africa’s 30 million commercial motorbikes.
Ampersand’s existing charging network, the largest in Rwanda and Kenya, will be expanded to support the new electric motorbikes. This will meet the growing demand for commercial motorbikes in African cities. It’s also seen as a way to support economic growth on the continent.
“This partnership marks a major milestone for Ampersand as we continue to lead the charge in providing sustainable, cost effective, mass-market EV solutions.” – Josh Whale, CEO of Ampersand.
Ampersand’s CEO said the partnership is a big step forward in providing affordable and sustainable electric vehicles for everyday people. He also mentioned environmental and economic benefits, like cleaner air and reduced fuel costs for motorbike riders.
BYD highlighted Ampersand’s expertise and experience as a reason for the partnership. It believes electrifying commercial motorbikes is a good first step towards a larger goal of reducing reliance on fossil fuels for transportation in developing countries.
