Ampersand, an African electric vehicle (EV) energy tech company, has announced the opening of a new, larger manufacturing facility in Nairobi. This strategic expansion is aimed at significantly increasing the company’s production capacity to meet the rising demand for electric motorcycles in Kenya and across East Africa. With over 1,100 electric motorcycles (e-motos) already in operation in the country, the move comes as a direct response to the growing popularity of sustainable transportation options in the region.
New Facility to Triple Production Capacity
The newly established factory spans 21,000 square meters, making it more than three times the size of Ampersand’s previous 6,500-square-meter site. This larger space will allow Ampersand to assemble up to 60 electric motorcycles per day, equating to 1,440 units per month. The company’s expansion plan also includes the deployment of over 100 staff members who will work to further enhance the manufacturing process and maintain Ampersand’s robust battery swap network.
This network plays a critical role in serving Kenya’s millions of commercial motorcycle riders, who are increasingly seeking efficient and affordable alternatives to petrol-powered motorcycles. By upgrading its manufacturing capabilities, Ampersand is positioning itself to lead the charge in the country’s transition to electric mobility.
Numbers That Matter: Ampersand’s Current Reach
Ampersand’s impact is already significant in both Kenya and Rwanda, where its fleet of heavy-duty commercial electric motorcycles covers a combined 4.5 million kilometers per week. These motorcycles, equipped with AI-optimized battery technology, are designed for high performance and durability, catering primarily to the taxi and delivery service sectors that rely heavily on motorcycles for transportation.
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With this new facility, Ampersand is poised to not only meet the current demand for electric motorcycles in Kenya but also expand its reach across East Africa, where more than 100 million people depend on petrol motorcycles for essential services. The company’s long-term goal is ambitious: it aims to deploy 5 million electric motorcycles by 2033.
CEO’s Vision: Scaling for Impact
Commenting on the expansion, Josh Whale, CEO of Ampersand, emphasized the importance of the new Nairobi factory as a major milestone for the company.
“Our new Nairobi factory is a significant step forward in both scale and impact. It reflects our commitment to providing sustainable, affordable EV solutions that benefit both riders and the environment. With this expanded capacity, we’re in a stronger position to support the electrification of Africa’s commercial motorcycle transport and to scale Ampersand’s proven business model,” said Whale.
Transforming Africa’s Motorcycle Industry
Ampersand’s expansion is set to play a critical role in Africa’s ongoing transition to electric transportation. The company’s focus on providing affordable EV solutions has the potential to reshape the commercial motorcycle sector, which remains one of the continent’s largest and most essential industries. The shift from petrol to electric motorcycles not only reduces emissions but also lowers operating costs for riders, making it an attractive option for those in the taxi and delivery services.
Ampersand’s manufacturing facility in Nairobi marks a new chapter in its efforts to drive the electrification of Africa’s motorcycle transport network. With the company’s trusted battery swap service, riders can conveniently swap depleted batteries for fully charged ones, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity.
Looking Ahead
As Ampersand scales its operations, it is well-positioned to address the needs of a growing market for sustainable mobility solutions in East Africa. The company’s combination of innovative technology, increased production capacity, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction will be key drivers in achieving its ambitious goals over the next decade. By 2033, Ampersand’s vision of deploying 5 million electric motorcycles could be transformative for both the environment and the economy in the region.
Ampersand’s expanded Nairobi facility is a clear indicator of the company’s long-term commitment to driving clean energy adoption and sustainable growth across Africa’s transportation sector..
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