Ampersand's green alliance: E-motorbikes to track wild animals

Ampersand, the commercial e-motorbike company based in Rwanda, has recently made headlines with their groundbreaking partnership with Rwanda's Akagera National Park. The Co-founder and President of Ampersand, Alp Tilev, sat down with CNBC Africa to discuss the innovative collaboration that is set to revolutionize conservation efforts in the region. The partnership aims to introduce a new generation of electric motorbikes that will not only reduce the park's operating costs but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable environment. The new electric bikes developed by Ampersand have been specifically designed to withstand the rugged conditions of Akagera National Park, making them ideal for anti-poaching and wildlife tracking activities. This initiative marks a significant step towards reducing the park's carbon footprint and enhancing its conservation efforts. Tilev highlighted the importance of this partnership in promoting a low-carbon economy and emphasized the positive impact it will have on the ecosystem within the park. The introduction of electric vehicles in Akagera National Park signifies a shift towards sustainable practices in wildlife conservation, setting a new standard for environmental responsibility in the region. Ampersand's commitment to research and development in Africa has set them apart in the industry. With a focus on manufacturing battery packs locally in Kigali, Rwanda, Ampersand has demonstrated its dedication to creating cost-effective and reliable electric vehicles that can compete with traditional petrol motorcycles. Tilev emphasized the significance of engineering and manufacturing electric vehicles on the continent, highlighting the importance of building a sustainable and robust EV ecosystem in East Africa. The conversation also delved into the challenges and opportunities associated with investing in manufacturing EV components in Africa. While the majority of lithium-ion battery cells are sourced from China, Ampersand has managed to establish a local supply chain for battery pack assembly, ensuring that their products meet the demanding conditions of the African continent. Tilev expressed optimism about the future of electric vehicles in Africa, noting the growing interest from both the public and private sectors in promoting sustainability. The Rwandan government's initiatives to incentivize EV production and supply have paved the way for other countries in the region to follow suit. Tilev emphasized the importance of government support in creating a conducive environment for EV manufacturing and adoption across Africa. As the electric vehicle market in East Africa continues to expand, Tilev acknowledged the increasing competition in the industry. However, he viewed this competition as a positive sign of a thriving market that is ripe for innovation and growth. Ampersand's focus on local manufacturing and engineering sets them apart from competitors, positioning them as a leader in sustainable mobility solutions in the region. In conclusion, Tilev discussed the cost-effectiveness of electric motorbikes and the downward trend in EV prices globally. With Ampersand already offering competitive pricing for their electric bikes, the future looks promising for the widespread adoption of electric two-wheelers in Africa. The company's recent partnership with Bolt in Nairobi further highlights the momentum towards electric ride-hailing services, signaling a bright future for sustainable transportation in the region. Ampersand's green alliance with Akagera National Park heralds a new era of eco-friendly conservation practices and sustainable mobility solutions in Africa. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and local manufacturing, Ampersand is paving the way for a greener and cleaner future for the continent.