Ampersand Energy has announced a new partnership that brings the Wylex electric motorcycle onto its battery network across East Africa. The collaboration positions Ampersand as the first company in Africa to open its battery swapping infrastructure to third-party electric motorcycle manufacturers.
Ampersand operates one of the fastest and most widely used battery swap networks in the region says the move will accelerate access to electric mobility by allowing more vehicle brands to plug into its system.
Josh Whale, the CEO of Ampersand, said the partnership represents a major milestone for the continent’s electric transport sector. “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 is a manufacturer with more than two decades of engineering experience and is launching its motorcycle in East Africa through the partnership. Eileen, the CEO of Wylex Mobility, said the company chose Ampersand due to its strong customer focus and proven swap network reliability. “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.”
The Wylex motorcycle is designed for African commercial use cases. It is equipped with an 8000 W motor, an 88 cm steel reinforced seat and a total carrying capacity of up to 200 kg. After passing Ampersand’s quality testing, the motorcycle will join the company’s Alpha fleet, which collectively covers one million kilometres a day.
Whale noted that riders have been asking for more vehicle choices while still benefiting from Ampersand’s batteries and swap stations. Opening the network to vetted manufacturers helps meet that demand while supporting companies entering the fast growing African market.
Ampersand Energy currently performs more than 20,000 battery swaps every day across Kenya and Rwanda. The company has powered over 400 million kilometres of travel, reinforcing the commercial viability of battery swapping as a practical model for two wheel transport in the region.
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Also Read: Ampersand Opens a New Electric Motorcycle Manufacturing Facility in Nairobi