Top 4 Electric Two-Wheeler Vehicles For Eco-friendly Travel in Africa
In many African cities today, two-wheelers are used for business dealings and commercial travel, more so than in most parts of the world. According to recent sales patterns in Africa, the continent’s two-wheeler industry might reach 10 million units in the next 15 years. Being that the two-wheeler industry is a major driver of the continent’s economy, moving to electricity-powered engines has become increasingly important.
As more entities look to reduce carbon emissions, a few innovators are leading the charge towards having a more electric African transportation network. Business owners and private individuals should be more informed as to what the e-bike market currently offers them.
To that end, we thought It was worth looking at the advancements that have been and are being made therein.
These indigenous creators/manufacturers have been able to develop industry-standard e-bikes that can match the performance of combustion engines. These are the most noteworthy e-bikes by African creators.
Bodawerk E-boda is an electric motorcycle that is produced by converting conventional petrol-fuelled motorcycles into battery-powered vehicles. Users can choose to have their existing vehicles converted or purchase a new E-boda from Bodawerk.
The manufacturer, based in Kampala, Uganda uses upcycled old lithium-ion batteries to replace the petrol-driven power train on Bajaj Boxer 100s
The vehicle uses an electric power train with recycled lithium-ion batteries. The 48 V DC, 6 kWh battery takes approximately 2 hours to charge which can be done at standard power outlets. It has a 2.2 kWh nominal capacity and the range is currently 70 km with one rider but with the new software updates, it could be around 80–90 km with one rider and >50 km with a passenger. The motor is currently rated at 2000 W, but Bodawerk plans to move to a 3000 W motor.
Ampersand battery swapping system allows users to access batteries anywhere in the network. Swaps are done within minutes just like getting a tank of fuel.
Ampersand swap managing networks optimize battery distribution and lifespan by learning from live data analytics of battery locations, state of charge, and our charging station network. Each battery delivers around 60–90 km of range.
E-Moto Features
- LED headlight
- Ampersand BLDC
- High power motor
- Front and rear disc brakes
- Automatic gearing
- Electric regenerative
- Braking for energy recovery
- Storage compartment
3 Zembo
Zembo (Zero Emission Boda Vehicle) is an electric motorbike designed to take the role of Uganda’s boda boda taxis. The vehicle includes removable batteries that may be swapped in 2 minutes at designated stations. The automobiles are accessible to consumers via a leasing program that allows them to own the vehicle after two years. The car has a range of 50–80 kilometres on a single battery charge.
4 MAX E M3
The MAXe series M3 has been developed and manufactured to operate in any African environment.
The M3 is the third generation production of MAX E-bikes. The high-performance vehicle is powered by a clean energy cycle and energy-saving aerodynamics.
M3 Features
- Swappable battery
- Energy-saving aerodynamics
- Centre-mounted electric motor for better clearance__The newest innovation in the two-wheeler industry. The more natural placement for a drive (rather than a hub drive), considers balance.
- Reinforced front and rear suspension
- Steel carrier for a delivery box
- Extended passenger seat
- High-beam LED headlamp
- Tank Storage Box with Integrated USB Charger
Side by Side Comparisons
The electric two-wheeler space being what it is, businesses, as well as individuals, have a healthy amount of options to choose from, and the future goal of significantly reduced emissions in this space is certainly achievable. However, among the options available to users, the MAX E M3 separates itself as the highest performer, providing the best value and inherent efficiency.
With the African population expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, It is becoming increasingly vital to switch to electric engines. Additional electric vehicle innovation is welcome and should be explored by entities across the continent. This is part of the reason why MAX has also begun the development and production of electric tricycles, also known as tuk-tuks, to be used in rural and semi-urban communities across Africa.
