Kenyan automaker Mobius Motors announced that it will begin assembling electric motorcycles, partnering with battery swapping company Stima and India’s One Electric Motorcycles.
The move is part of a wider effort to promote electric mobility in Africa. Mobius says the partnership will accelerate the adoption of electric motorcycles in Kenya, creating jobs and boosting local manufacturing.
“Mobius Motors is excited to venture into the electric mobility space, with the first project being the assembly of an electric motorcycle,” the company said via Twitter.
Mobius said the partnership aligns with the company’s vision of providing affordable, efficient transportation across Africa.
“As part of a wider e-mobility plan for Africa, Mobius Motors has partnered with battery swapping technology specialist Stima and India’s leading electric motorcycle manufacturer One Electric,” Mobius tweeted. “Through this partnership, Mobius Motors will play a huge role in accelerating the deployment of electric motorcycles in Kenya.”
Mobius Motors was resgistered in Kenya in 2011 and is known for its durable Vehicle for Africa, or Mobius II, which is designed for Africa’s rough roads. The vehicle runs on gasoline but the new partnership aims to electrify Mobius’ offerings.
Electric motorcycles are gaining popularity in Africa due to low maintenance costs and environmental benefits. But the vehicles are still expensive for many consumers. The Mobius partnership aims to develop affordable electric models suited for the local market.