Home / Business and Economy / East Africa Powers Up: EV Motorbike Boom Ignites
East Africa Powers Up: EV Motorbike Boom Ignites
5 Mar
Summary
- Zeno secured $25 million in Series A funding for EV motorbike production.
- The company offers electric motorbikes with 50% lower operating costs.
- Zeno plans to develop battery docks for home and business power.
The transition to electric vehicles is gaining significant momentum in East Africa, particularly within the electric motorbike sector, where multiple startups are actively competing. Zeno, a prominent company in this space, has successfully raised $25 million in Series A funding. This capital infusion will support the expansion of its app-controlled battery-swap network and boost the production of its Emara motorcycles.
This significant funding round, comprising $20.5 million in equity and $4.5 million in debt, was led by Congruent Ventures, with key participation from Active Impact and Lowercarbon Ventures. Zeno's Emara motorbikes are designed to offer riders substantially lower operating costs, estimated at 50% less than internal combustion engine bikes. The company reports a substantial backlog of over 25,000 customers eager to acquire an Emara.
The Emara model boasts a range of approximately 100 kilometers on a single charge and can carry up to 250 kilograms. For customers who choose not to purchase the battery outright, Zeno provides flexible subscription or pay-per-use plans for battery access. Looking ahead, Zeno is prototyping a battery dock intended for home and business use, which could also power lights and appliances, thereby potentially enhancing its role within East Africa's energy landscape.
