Spiro, a leading Pan-African electric vehicle company, distributed over 150 e-motorbikes to motorists across Kigali, simultaneously extending automated swap stations to Muhanga and Kayonza districts.

The event, held at Spiro’s main showroom located at the Kigali Special Economic Zone on July 27, marked the continuity of satisfying their clients by revolutionising the e-vehicle landscape, aiming for zero emissions, cost-cutting, smooth and seamless riding experience, impressive battery performance, and energy efficient across the continent in particular Rwanda.

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Since its inception in 2023, the company has so far deployed around 500 electric vehicles (EVs) across the country, bringing the total number to 1,000 bikes on the road, showcasing Spiro’s cutting-edge electric bikes and raising awareness about the benefits of electric mobility and its role in combating climate change.

These two-wheelers use batteries as power sources to run with 250W to 750W power output. They are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs that are typically removable and recharged using standard electrical outlets. Their capacity determines their range – typically 300 to 900 watt-hours on one charge.

The range of an e-bike depends on multiple factors, including battery capacity, motor power, level of pedal assistance used, terrain, rider weight, and riding conditions. On a single charge, an e-bike typically travels 20 to 80 miles (32 to 128 kilometres). However, using higher levels of pedal assistance or traversing hilly terrain could significantly shorten this timeframe.

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Kaushik Burman, Spiro’s CEO, affirmed that this celebration drive through Rwanda is a symbol to the growing community of sustainable transportation advocates.

"We are proud to bring together 150 riders who share our vision for a cleaner, greener future.”

He noted: "Rwanda, known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’, poses unique challenges for transportation due to its terrain. Spiro’s electric bikes, equipped with mid-drive motors, provide better performance on hills.

"By placing the motor in the middle of the bike, the weight is evenly distributed, enhancing stability and making it easier to climb steep inclines. This design allows riders to tackle hilly terrains with greater ease and efficiency,” he explained.

Recently, the company launched operations in Muhanga District, Southern Province. The operations of the office, the smart station, and the deployment of bikes were inaugurated by the CEO and Spiro Rwanda&039;s team. The launch was attended by cooperative members, including the president of the motorists in the district.

"We have deployed around 25 bikes in this area, with plans to increase the number of bikes on the road soon due to promising leads. This launch marks the beginning of our expansion into new regions, bringing the benefits of electric mobility to more communities across Rwanda,” he said.

Arun Bhandari, Head of Spiro Rwanda, added: "This drive is not only a celebration of our achievements, but also a strong statement of our commitment to sustainable mobility in Africa. We are excited to see the positive impact our electric bikes are making in Rwanda and beyond.”

Motorists’ perspectives

Theophile Dukuzimana, a taxi-moto operator, said that Spiro’s motors generate huge profits due to their battery capacity and easy access to services at swapping stations where drivers can exchange depleted batteries for recharged ones.

"Getting a recharged battery is easy and cost-effective. When you get a recharged battery, you make a larger profit compared to other motors. The motor has strong energy, especially on hilly terrain, and never loses it. That’s why I chose it,” he said.

Thomas Sindayigaya, who has been riding for over five years with fuel-consuming motors, shared similar sentiments. After noticing the impressive nature of Spiro’s motors, he completely switched.

"Commuters prefer these motors because they are evenly balanced and provide a seamless riding experience,” he explained.

Sindayigaya revealed that when he used a fuel-consuming motor, he would spend over Rwf7,000 from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., plus additional fuel costs. However, with the battery-operated motor, he only spends Rwf6,000 a day. He has been able to save money on lubricating oil, a must-have thing on a weekly basis, making it more cost-effective.

Looking ahead, Spiro is planning to expand to Huye, Bishenyi, Rwamagana, Nyamata, and Mayange before the end of the year. This strategic growth will further the mission to provide sustainable transportation solutions throughout the country, reinforcing commitment to a cleaner, greener future for all.