NAIROBI, Kenya, Dec 10— Ampersand Energy has opened its battery-swap network to third-party electric motorcycle manufacturers, becoming the first company in Africa to do so.
The move follows a new partnership allowing Wylex Mobility’s electric motorcycle to run on Ampersand batteries across its East African network.
“This is a landmark moment for Africa’s electric transport sector,” said Josh Whale, Ampersand CEO.
“We’ve created a top-tier energy infrastructure that any vehicle partner meeting our quality standards can join. Ampersand is the first and only company in Africa to offer an open battery swap network. This development will dramatically accelerate electric transportation in East Africa.”
Wylex Mobility’s entry into the region will ride on Ampersand’s existing infrastructure, expanding options for commercial riders and fleet operators.
The Wylex motorcycle, built for heavy-duty commercial use, carries an 8,000W motor, a steel-reinforced seat, and a 200-kilogram load capacity.
“With 27 years of engineering, Wylex delivers stronger, longer-lasting performance for riders,” said Eileen Huang, CEO of Wylex Mobility.
“We’re particularly excited to launch it with Ampersand. Their strong customer focus and reliable swap network made them the ideal partner for our entry into the region.”
Ampersand says the Wylex passed its internal testing and will complement its Alpha fleet, which already covers close to a million kilometres daily in Rwanda and Kenya.
The partnerss say the move opens the door for more global manufacturers to plug into East Africa’s fast-growing electric mobility market without building their own charging ecosystem.
Ampersand currently delivers over 20,000 battery swaps daily and has powered more than 400 million kilometres of electric motorcycle travel in the region.
