[Nairobi, Kenya] – Spiro, Africa's Largest EV Player, announces a significant expansion into Nairobi, marking a pivotal moment in its mission to enhance sustainable transportation across the continent.
This week, Spiro introduces Kenya's first Automated Battery Swap Station in Nairobi, followed by a subsequent launch in Mombasa later this month, in partnership with Petrocity, one of Kenya's leading fuel station operators.
This initiative builds on the solid foundation Spiro has established since its entry into the African market, complementing an existing network of manual swap stations with the latest in EV technology access. The introduction of these new automated stations in strategic Petrocity locations offers riders greater choice and reinforces Spiro’s dedication to innovation and environmental sustainability.
Network Enhancement and Technological Progress
With a robust presence across Africa, Spiro operates 600 swap stations and has facilitated over 7 million battery swaps for its community of 12,000 riders. The rollout of automated swap stations in Nairobi and Mombasa marks a significant step forward, offering a streamlined and efficient swapping experience that highlights Spiro’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric mobility.
The move follows similar launches last week in Benin and Togo, as Spiro continues to develop a Pan African connected network of smart energy distribution which will help accelerate the much needed transition from fossil fuels to electric vehicles.
"We're proud to launch Africa's first automated battery swapping station in Nairobi. It's our commitment to fast track the EV ecosystem in Kenya, bringing the world's best-in-class technology into the grasp of regular people. Technology transfer and localization of the EV ecosystem will create a multiplier effect on the local community and environment, and empower entrepreneurs to partner with Spiro."
Kaushik Burman, Spiro's CEO.
Advantages of Spiro's Battery Swapping Technology
Spiro’s battery swapping technology addresses key challenges in EV adoption, such as long charging times and range concerns. Automated swap stations enable rapid battery exchanges, boosting service efficiency and supporting the uninterrupted operation of both commercial and private riders. Riders can swap their deplete batteries for fully charged ones, in less than a minute and the recent implementation of a State of Charge energy model ensures that the level of charge in each battery is monitored in real-time, benefiting the rider by charging batteries effectively and reducing degradation.
State of Charge (SoC) Energy Model and Pan-African Smart Energy Ecosystem
A key feature of Spiro's expansion is the implementation of its State of Charge (SoC) energy model. This innovative approach ensures that the level of charge in each battery is monitored in real time, allowing riders to pay only for the energy they use. It also enables more effective charging strategies, reducing battery degradation. This model is integral to Spiro's vision for a Pan-African Smart Energy Ecosystem, which aims to create a cohesive network of energy solutions that support sustainable transportation across the continent.
Commando
The Spiro commando bikes, chosen for this transformative initiative, boast an impressive range of 70–80 kilometers per battery swap. By transitioning to electric bikes, it is anticipated that there will be a significant 30–40% reduction in operational expenses compared to traditional ICE bikes. Beyond the financial benefits, electric bikes offer the added advantages of being environmentally friendly and producing minimal noise pollution, contributing to the overall quality of life in Kenyan communities.
Ongoing Expansion and Technological Development
The launch of Spiro’s first automated swap stations in Kenya signifies the beginning of plans to deploy more sophisticated stations throughout Africa. These initiatives are part of Spiro’s strategy to present riders with an efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly alternative to conventional fuels, advancing its technological infrastructure.
"Our automated swap stations, paired with Spiro batteries, represent the pinnacle of safety and quality in the EV market," says Spiro CTO, Samir Mishra. "These stations are designed to offer our customers a seamless and secure experience, ensuring that every swap meets the highest standards of performance and reliability."
Spiro CTO, Samir Mishra.
About Spiro
Spiro is Africa's Largest EV Player, leading the way towards sustainable transportation with over 12,000 innovative electric bikes and a pioneering battery swapping technology. The technical innovation teams in Pune and Bangalore have been instrumental in developing the platforms that underpin a Pan-African smart energy ecosystem, proudly serving riders in Togo, Benin, Kenya, Rwanda, and planning expansions into Uganda and Nigeria.
Notes to Editors:
Spiro's introduction of automated swap stations in Kenya, in partnership with Petrocity, is a key component of its broader strategy to enhance electric mobility infrastructure across Africa. With a fleet of more than 12,000 innovative electric bikes and a growing network of swap stations, Spiro is setting new standards in electric vehicle innovation and accessibility, contributing to a sustainable and efficient Pan-African smart energy ecosystem.