Electric motorcycle riders in Kenya demand more flexible battery networks

Electric motorcycles, also known as electric mobility bikes or e-bikes, are gaining ground throughout Africa. E-bike users in Kenya are urging companies and regulators to support battery-swap networks. They say proprietary battery systems tied to single brands are creating service gaps, while remote lockouts and limited access to charging stations are disrupting their livelihoods. The firm Ampersand has moved to open its network to other e-bike makers, but broader sharing across firms will take time. Hundreds of Kenyan riders in Nairobi and Mombasa recently took to the streets, chanting and waving placards demanding more battery swap stations and open access across networks.