Ampersand Energy has announced a major partnership that will see the Wylex electric motorcycle run on Ampersand’s batteries and use its existing battery swap network across East Africa.
This marks a significant milestone for Ampersand, Africa’s first electric transport company, and for Wylex Mobility, a leading electric motorcycle manufacturer.
The partnership makes Ampersand Energy the first and only electric transport company in Africa to open its batteries and swap network to third-party vehicle manufacturers.
“This is a landmark moment for Africa’s electric transport sector,” said Josh Whale, Ampersand CEO. “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 CEO Eileen Huang said the Wylex motorcycle was designed specifically for the demands of African commerce.
She noted that with 27 years of engineering experience, Wylex focuses on delivering strong, long-lasting performance.
“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,” she said.
The Wylex bike features an 8000 W motor, an 88 cm steel-reinforced seat, and a carrying capacity of up to 200 kg.
After passing Ampersand’s strict testing and quality control standards, it will serve as a natural fit for the East African market and complement Ampersand’s existing Alpha fleet.
The Alpha Mk1 motorcycles currently cover more than one million kilometres per day, the equivalent of crossing Africa 100 times daily.
Whale added that riders have been asking for more vehicle options that still meet Ampersand’s demanding quality standards.
He said the new partnership answers that need by providing a wider range of vehicles using the region’s fastest and most reliable battery swap network.
He also noted that the collaboration gives global manufacturers direct access to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets without having to invest in building energy infrastructure themselves.
Ampersand Energy currently delivers more than 20,000 battery swaps per day across Rwanda and Kenya.
Using some of the most advanced battery technology on the continent, the company has powered more than 400 million kilometres of electric travel.
The results demonstrate that battery swapping is a safe, practical, and efficient solution for commercial motorcycle transport in East Africa.
The new partnership is expected to accelerate innovation in the region’s electric mobility sector and attract more international manufacturers to connect to Ampersand’s open battery swap network.
