Ampersand operates a battery swapping network for electric motorcycles, enabling drivers to quickly exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones, thus eliminating downtime associated with traditional refueling. This system reduces operational costs by 50% compared to petrol motorcycles, allowing drivers to increase their daily income by 45% while contributing to lower carbon emissions.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Motorcycle taxi drivers in Africa face high fuel and maintenance costs with traditional petrol bikes, limiting their income and contributing to carbon emissions. Refueling downtime further reduces their earning potential.
Solution
Ampersand provides an electric motorcycle and battery-swapping network that reduces operational costs and increases driver income. Drivers exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones at swap stations, eliminating refueling downtime. The electric motorcycles cost the same as petrol motorcycles to buy and finance but cost half as much to power, increasing take-home pay. The company's technology captures live battery data every 5 seconds, resulting in greater efficiency.
Target Audience
The primary customers are motorcycle taxi drivers in Africa, particularly those in their late 20s to 30s who work long hours daily.
Features
- Battery swapping network with strategically located swap stations
- Electric motorcycles designed for the African market
- Real-time battery data monitoring for efficient energy management
- Driver financing options available