Ampersand’s new Nairobi factory to triple electric motorcycle production
Ampersand’s move targets the surging demand for sustainable transportation solutions in Kenya and beyond.
Nairobi just got a major boost in its electric vehicle scene. Ampersand, a leading provider of electric motorcycles in Kenya, has opened a new manufacturing facility that will triple its production capacity. This expansion is a step forward in the company's mission to provide sustainable and affordable transportation solutions across East Africa.
Josh Whale, CEO of Ampersand, highlighted the significance of the new facility, stating, “Our Nairobi factory marks a pivotal advancement in both scale and impact. It embodies our dedication to delivering eco-friendly, cost-effective EV options that benefit riders and the environment alike. With this increased capacity, we are better positioned to drive the electrification of Africa’s commercial motorcycle sector and expand our successful business model.”
The new factory, spanning 21,000 square meters, is over three times larger than the previous site and will employ more than 100 staff members. It is designed to assemble 60 electric motorcycles daily, translating to 1,440 units per month. This expansion will enable Ampersand to cater to the growing market for electric motorcycles in Kenya, where the company already operates over 1,100 e-motos.
This expansion of production capacity will directly contribute to reducing carbon emissions and increasing rider income. Ampersand estimates that each electric motorcycle can reduce carbon emissions by at least 2 metric tons of CO2 equivalent annually while boosting rider income by an average of 45%. This is particularly significant for Kenyan riders who often support nearly four dependents.
By 2033, the company, which recently raised $21.5 million, plans to deploy 5 million electric motorcycles across East Africa.
To achieve this, Ampersand has partnered with BYD to secure 40,000 advanced batteries by the end of 2026. These lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells are renowned for their longevity, safety, and affordability, making them ideal for widespread electrification efforts.
This expansion comes at a time when the East African EV market is heating up. Companies like BasiGo (electric buses), M-KOPA/Bolt (e-bike leasing), and Zeno (swappable battery technology) are also making strides, creating a dynamic and competitive landscape that's accelerating the shift towards electric mobility.
