As Africa embraces sustainable transportation, a new wave of innovative startups is leading the charge in the electric vehicle (EV) revolution.
From sleek electric cars to practical e-motorcycles, these companies are not just providing greener alternatives – they’re reshaping the continent’s mobility landscape.
Let’s explore 8 of the most promising EV startups in Africa and see how you can get your hands on their cutting-edge electric vehicles.
1. Opibus (now ROAM) – Kenya
Founded in 2017, Opibus (rebranded as ROAM in 2022) is a Swedish-Kenyan electric vehicle manufacturer.
They started by converting safari and utility vehicles to electric and have since expanded into developing their own electric motorcycles and buses.
ROAM aims to create reliable, cost-effective electric vehicles specifically designed for the African market.
Vehicles: Electric motorcycles, buses, and off-road vehicles
Key Achievements
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Pioneered local electric vehicle assembly: Opibus was at the forefront of manufacturing electric vehicles within Kenya, boosting the local automotive industry.
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Developed customized electric vehicles: The company tailored electric vehicles to suit Kenya’s specific needs, such as public transport, last-mile delivery, and commercial applications.
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Promoted sustainable transportation: By introducing electric vehicles, Opibus contributed to reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.
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Forged strategic partnerships: Collaborated with government, private sector, and international partners to advance electric mobility in Kenya.
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Expanded market reach: Successfully introduced electric vehicles to the Kenyan market and demonstrated potential for growth.
How to acquire:
– Visit their website for product information
– Contact their sales team for quotes and availability
– They offer both consumer purchases and fleet solutions for businesses
2. Ampersand – Rwanda
Ampersand, founded in 2016, is Africa’s first electric motorcycle company.
Based in Kigali, Rwanda, they’re pioneering an innovative approach to electrifying Africa’s ubiquitous motorcycle taxis.
Ampersand doesn’t just sell electric motorcycles; they’ve developed a comprehensive ecosystem that includes battery swap stations and financing options.
Vehicles: Electric motorcycles and battery swap stations
Key Achievements
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Pioneered electric motorcycle (e-moto) production: Ampersand was a trailblazer in manufacturing electric motorcycles in Rwanda.
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Developing a battery swapping network: The company has established a robust infrastructure for battery swap stations to support its e-moto fleet.
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Enhanced rider livelihoods: Ampersand’s electric motorcycles offer cost savings and increased earning potential for riders compared to traditional petrol motorcycles.
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Reduced carbon emissions: By replacing petrol motorcycles with electric ones, Ampersand significantly contributed to improving air quality.
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Expanded electric mobility ecosystem: The company played a crucial role in developing the electric mobility ecosystem in Rwanda and the region.
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Attracting significant investment: Ampersand has secured substantial funding to support its growth and expansion plans.
How to acquire:
– Currently focused on motorcycle taxi drivers in Rwanda
– Visit their website (www.ampersand.solar) for more information
– They offer a pay-as-you-go model, making e-motorcycles more accessible
3. Agilitee – South Africa
Agilitee, launched in 2018, is a South African green tech company aiming to become Africa’s first fully-fledged electric vehicle manufacturer.
They have a diverse product range, from electric scooters to cars, and are rapidly expanding their operations across the continent.
Agilitee’s mission is to make electric vehicles accessible and affordable for African consumers.
Vehicles: Electric cars, scooters, and motorcycles
Key Achievements
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Pioneered electric vehicle manufacturing: Agilitee has positioned itself as a leader in electric vehicle production in South Africa.
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Rapid market expansion: The company has achieved significant growth, expanding its operations to multiple provinces within a short period.
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Focused on affordability: Agilitee has prioritized offering electric vehicles at competitive prices to increase accessibility.
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Introduced battery swapping technology: The company has implemented battery swapping stations to enhance convenience and efficiency for users.
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Driving electric mobility adoption: Agilitee has played a crucial role in promoting electric vehicles as a viable transportation option in South Africa.
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Expanded market reach: The company has demonstrated strong growth potential by entering new markets beyond South Africa.
How to acquire:
– Visit their website (www.agilitee.co.za) to view their product range
– Contact their sales team for pricing and availability
– They offer both direct sales and leasing options
4. Zembo – Uganda
Zembo, established in 2018, is a French-Ugandan startup focusing on electric motorcycles and solar charging infrastructure.
Their innovative approach combines electric mobility with renewable energy, aiming to create a sustainable transportation ecosystem in Uganda and beyond.
Vehicles: Electric motorcycles and solar charging stations
Key Achievements
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Pioneered electric motorcycle (e-moto) sharing: Zembo introduced a novel e-moto sharing model with a focus on battery swapping.
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Developing a robust battery swapping network: The company has established a widespread network of battery swap stations across Uganda.
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Enhanced rider affordability: Zembo’s pay-as-you-go model made electric motorcycles accessible to a broader range of riders.
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Reduced carbon emissions: By replacing petrol motorcycles with electric ones, Zembo contributed significantly to improving air quality.
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Expanded electric mobility ecosystem: The company played a pivotal role in developing Uganda’s electric mobility infrastructure.
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Demonstrated scalability: Zembo’s successful operations in Uganda showcase the potential for expansion into other African markets.
How to acquire:
– Visit their website (www.zem.bo) for more information
– Currently focused on motorcycle taxi drivers in Uganda
– Offers pay-as-you-go plans to make e-motorcycles accessible
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5. Kiira Motors Corporation – Uganda
Kiira Motors Corporation is a state-owned enterprise established in 2014 by the Ugandan government.
Born out of a student project at Makerere University, Kiira Motors aims to establish Uganda as a vehicle manufacturing hub, with a focus on electric and hybrid vehicles.
Vehicles: Electric buses and passenger vehicles
Key Achievements
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Pioneered electric vehicle development in Africa: Kiira Motors Corporation was the first to design and build electric vehicles in Africa.
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Developed innovative electric vehicles: The company has created groundbreaking models such as the Kiira EVS hybrid and the Kayoola Solar Bus.
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Built with local automotive capacity, Kiira Motors has contributed to developing Uganda’s automotive industry and skills.
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Focused on sustainable mobility: The company’s electric vehicles prioritize environmental friendliness and energy efficiency.
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Showcased African engineering talent: Kiira Motors has demonstrated the capabilities of African engineers on the global stage.
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Attracted international attention: The company has gained recognition for its achievements in electric vehicle technology.
How to acquire:
– Visit their website (www.kiiramotors.com) for product information
– Contact their sales team for pricing and availability
– Focuses on both consumer and public transportation solutions.
6. Solar E-Cycles – Kenya
Solar E-Cycles is a Kenyan-Canadian startup founded in 2015 by Roger Christen.
The company develops solar-powered electric bicycles and tricycles, targeting both urban and rural markets with a focus on sustainable, affordable transportation solutions.
Vehicles: Solar-powered electric bicycles and tricycles
Key Achievements:
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Pioneered solar-powered electric vehicles: Solar E-Cycles has been a leader in developing and producing solar-powered electric vehicles, particularly tricycles, in Kenya.
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Focused on rural electrification and mobility: The company has addressed the challenges of rural areas by providing sustainable transportation and electricity solutions.
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Developed affordable and accessible products: Solar E-Cycles has prioritized making its products affordable and accessible to low-income populations.
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Promoted sustainable development: By offering clean energy solutions, the company has contributed to environmental protection and improved livelihoods.
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Created employment opportunities: Solar E-Cycles has likely generated jobs through its operations and supply chain.
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Gaining international recognition: The company’s innovative approach has garnered attention on the global stage.
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How to acquire:
– Visit their website (www.solar-e-cycles.com) for product information
– Contact them directly for pricing and availability
– They offer both individual and fleet solutions
7. Mellowcabs – South Africa
Mellowcabs, founded in 2012 by Neil du Preez, is a South African startup that designs and manufactures electric micro-taxis.
Their unique three-wheeler design aims to revolutionize urban transportation, offering a sustainable solution for short trips in cities.
Vehicles: Electric micro-taxis (three-wheelers)
Key Achievements
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Pioneered electric micro-mobility: Mellowcabs introduced a unique concept of electric minicabs for short-distance urban transport.
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Leveraged technology for efficient operations: The company developed a mobile app for booking and payment, enhancing user experience.
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Combine solar power with electric propulsion: Mellowcabs incorporate solar panels to supplement battery power, increasing sustainability.
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Focused on urban mobility solutions: The company addressed the challenges of short-distance travel in urban areas with a practical solution.
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Created employment opportunities: Mellowcabs likely contributed to job creation for drivers and related services.
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Promoted sustainable transportation: By offering electric vehicles, Mellowcabs reduced carbon emissions and air pollution.
How to acquire:
– Visit their website (www.mellowcabs.com) for more information
– Contact them for pilot projects or fleet acquisitions
– Currently focused on partnerships with cities and transportation companies
8. Metro African Express (MAX) – Nigeria
Metro African Express (MAX), founded in 2015 by Adetayo Bamiduro and Chinedu Azodoh, is a technology company that started as a last-mile delivery service.
In recent years, they’ve pivoted to focusing on electric mobility solutions, particularly electric motorcycles. MAX aims to revolutionize Africa’s transportation sector by providing affordable, clean energy-powered vehicles.
EV Focus: Electric motorcycles, innovative financing, and robust charging for urban mobility and emissions reduction in Africa.
Key Achievements
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Pioneering ride-hailing: Introduced a unique ride-hailing model with driver partnerships.
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Rapid expansion: Grew operations significantly across Nigeria.
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Driver empowerment: Provided financial support and opportunities to drivers.
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Technology-driven: Developed a strong tech platform for operations.
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Strategic alliances: Partnered with key industry players.
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Social impact: Contributed to urban mobility and job creation.
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Market leader: Became a dominant player in the Nigerian market.
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Pan-African vision: Showcased ambitions for regional expansion.
How to acquire:
– Visit their website (https://www.max.ng/) for more information
– Contact them directly for conversion services
– They can convert your existing vehicle or source a vehicle for conversion
As we can see from these innovative startups, the EV revolution in Africa is taking many forms:
1. Motorcycles and three-wheelers: Many companies are focusing on electrifying two and three-wheelers, which are crucial for urban transportation and last-mile delivery in many African cities.
2. Conversion services: Several startups are making EVs more accessible by converting existing vehicles, addressing the challenge of high upfront costs for new EVs.
3. Charging infrastructure: Companies are not just selling vehicles but also developing the necessary charging infrastructure, often powered by renewable energy.
4. Pay-as-you-go models: To make EVs more affordable, many startups are offering innovative financing solutions, including pay-as-you-go plans similar to those used in the solar industry.
5. Local manufacturing: Some companies are setting up local assembly and manufacturing facilities, which could significantly reduce costs and create jobs.
