Africa Electric Two-Wheeler Market Assessment, By Vehicle Type [Motorcycle, Scooter/Mopeds], By Battery Type [Lead Acid, Lithium-ion, NiMH], By Battery Voltage [Upto 24V, 25V-60V, 60V and Above], By Application [Commercial, Personal], By Distribution Chan

Africa Electric Two-Wheeler Market Assessment, By Vehicle Type [Motorcycle, Scooter/Mopeds], By Battery Type [Lead Acid, Lithium-ion, NiMH], By Battery Voltage [Upto 24V, 25V-60V, 60V and Above], By Application [Commercial, Personal], By Distribution Channel [Online, Offline], By Country, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F

Africa electric two-wheeler market is projected to witness a strong CAGR of 24.78% during the forecast period 2024-2031F growing from USD 441.69 million in 2023 to USD 2612.14 million in 2031. The market has experienced significant growth in recent years and is expected to maintain a strong pace of expansion in the forecast years.

Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs) are increasingly being replaced with electric vehicles (EVs) due to higher fuel prices and rising pollution from vehicles. Electric motorcycles and e-scooters are gaining popularity throughout the region as they are portable, simple to use, and help achieve the objective of zero carbon emissions. Additionally, Egypt and Morocco are popular travel destinations for tourists from abroad. The demand is being driven by tourists who choose to rent e-scooters for local transportation and adventure. African tourism revived to its pre-covid trajectory and is anticipated to impact the sales of sustainable mobility due to government’s focus on sustainability and efficiency.

International promotions have positively impacted the adoption of electric two-wheelers. The major electric two-wheeler manufacturers across the globe, especially Indian and Chinese companies with affordable alternatives are entering the African market. These companies are investing in the region to expand their distribution and manufacturing facilities. The crucial role of these companies is to accelerate the sales of electric two-wheelers and build infrastructure and employment opportunities for the natives.

For instance, in August 2023, Indian company One Electric Motorcycles began to produce their flagship electric motorcycle, KRIDN in Africa. The company joint ventured with a local well-established vehicle manufacturing entity and has provided all the necessary parts, technology, and knowledge for assembling motorcycles. Also, One Electric Motorcycles plans to set up a battery production plant in Africa.

Urban Mobility and International Collaborations to Influence the Demand for Electric Motorcycles

Few African countries have a higher urbanization rate than other developing nations. The rapid migration of the rural population into urban areas is putting pressure on the transport infrastructure and energy requirements. Since most public transport works on fuel, there is a gasoline shortage with increased fuel prices. Using ICE two-wheelers contributes to issues including fuel scarcity, high fuel costs, and rising pollution. Africa, therefore, requires alternate transportation that decreases reliance on gasoline. Hence, the use of electric two-wheelers to lower emissions and harmful pollutants in the air, is becoming increasingly popular. The local companies collaborate with international EV giants to develop technologies for enhanced electric motorcycles with higher efficiency.

For instance, in October 2023, Kofa, Ghana’s leading battery network solutions provider, teamed up with China’s top electric vehicle brand, TAILG Group. The partnership launched a new electric motorcycle, Jidi. Jidi is equipped with Kofa’s cutting-edge battery swap technology, making it the first of its kind in the country. The company’s mission is to build an inclusive, cost-effective, and customer-focused electricity network that is powered by portable battery technology and renewable energy sources. The company’s Kofa swap-and-go system is a fully distributed battery and swap station network that allows users to access a fully charged battery in a matter of seconds.

Expanding Tourism and Rapid Urbanization to Attract Electric Two-wheelers in Africa

Rising tourism in African cities, such as Cape Town, is leading to the rapid adoption of electric two-wheelers as tourists look for cost-effective and comfortable transportation options. Electric scooter renting company, Lime introduced a mobile app to serve tourists that positively impacted their business growth and raised the demand for electric two-wheelers. Per capita income, job creation, infrastructure development, and abundant natural resources are the main drivers of economic development in Africa.

Urbanization in Africa is higher, than in other emerging economies, with higher potential for international brands. Rapid population growth is putting strain on existing transport and infrastructure. Most vehicles used for transport are fuel-driven, resulting in a high oil demand. The issues of fuel shortage, fuel prices, and pollution are caused by ICEs. Africa needs alternative modes of transport that reduce fuel dependency.

For instance, in August 2023, Spiro, an African electric scooter and motorcycle company, announced that it received new financing of USD 63 million, allowing it to expand its operations to Kenya and Uganda. Spiro has 10,000 vehicles running on the roads of three African countries, Benin, Togo, and Rwanda, and plans to add another 15,700 battery-powered vehicles to its fleet.

Government Efforts and Policies to Shape Market’s Trajectory

The government's initiatives for EV adoption have resulted in increasing research and development programs in the region. The government focuses on adopting advanced charging stations to enrich the electric two-wheeler experience. The aim is to eliminate combustion engine-driven motorbikes through government warnings and compliances eventually. Governments are implementing policies and schemes to promote e-mobility. Furthermore, the adoption of electric mobility to reduce vehicle pollution drives the growth of the market. In 2023, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, and South Africa held significant share of Africa electric two-wheeler market with a market share of 20.28%, 6.92%, 17.74%, and 14.24%, respectively.

For instance, in September 2023, Kenya’s government announced the plans to launch a nationwide electric motorbike fleet. Electric mobility is one of the country’s top priorities to tackle pollution, health issues, and rising fuel costs. President William Ruto and Spiro, an African startup, announced the initiative ahead of next week’s Africa Climate Summit that will be held in Nairobi.

Lithium-ion Batteries to Dominate the Market Share

Lithium-ion battery segment dominated the market with the market share in 2023, and is expected to maintain its dominance in the forecast period. Liquid sealed batteries are highly reliable, portable, require low maintenance, and are cost-effective. Leak-proof construction requires no special precautions for electric scooter handling. Manufacturers adopt sealed batteries in inclined positions. The energy density of a lithium-ion battery is higher than that of a conventional lead-acid battery. As a result, the range of an electric motorcycle or scooter can be extended on a single charge, allowing the rider to travel for extended distances. The lighter weight of the battery improves the handling and performance of two-wheelers. This enhances maneuverability and agility, without losing the power.

For instance, in October 2023, BODAWERK rebranded to GOGO while launching a new electric motorcycle and partnered with Watu to fund expansion in Uganda. By 2024, GOGO plans to have 20,000 drivers using 3 GWh per month. It plans to have East Africa's biggest lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack factory open in 2024.

Future Market Scenario (2024–2031F)

The new companies are entering Africa two-wheeler market with advanced battery systems and efficient technology, likely to expand the market size during the forecast period.

Increased fuel tariffs, prices, and depleting fossil fuel reserves are projected to garner market growth.

Technologies enabling fast-charging and lightweight features are anticipated to enhance the outlook of electric two-wheelers market.

International partnerships and collaborations will extend the electric two-wheeler fleet, expected to fuel the market growth.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The competitive landscape of Africa electric two-wheeler industry holds a mixture of native and international players. International players focus on setting up their manufacturing space along with the partnerships and government tenders. Furthermore, the competitors focus on bringing new battery technology in the market that deliver efficiency, power, and higher range of scooters and motorcycles. Key player strategy involves strengthening supply chain, distribution channel, and new swappable batteries.

For instance, in July 2023, Roam launched its first Roam Hub, a multi-purpose electric motorcycle charging station in Nairobi, Kenya. The Roam Hub serves as an ecosystem solution for drivers, providing public access to battery charging and rental services as they do their daily operations. The stations are outfitted with spare parts and staffed by trained technicians for maintenance and repair work as needed.

In January 2024, Ampersand secured USD 19.5 million in funding. A significant USD 7.5 million of the total funding was secured as a debt. This debt was managed by Africa’s go green fund (AGG) and will be used to support Ampersand’s three main goals, increasing electric motorcycle battery production, expanding the current battery swap station (BST) infrastructure, and accelerating R&D.