Spiro, a leading Pan-African electric vehicle company, has rolled out affordable electric bikes in Kirehe District, one of the 25 districts where motorists have already embraced eco-friendly transport, earning income more cost-effectively compared to their diesel-powered counterparts. The company, which distributes locally assembled EVs motorcycles, visited the district’s car park on August 12, where they met with over 500 motorists to raise awareness about the need to champion green ambitions. There, four motorists — all women — unveiled the latest of Spiro’s Ekon Series available for purchase to those interested in continuing their entrepreneurial journeys, saving more on maintenance, and improving their families’ livelihoods. ALSO READ: Spiro reassures customers as motorcycle delivery rolls out in batches “We have rolled out a nationwide campaign that aims to help fellow Rwandans and riders to own their e-bikes in the most affordable and convenient way possible. Our current promotion runs until 31st August 2025, but I can assure you that there are more promotions that are yet to come.,” noted Shanton Ngabire, Head of Commercial, Spiro Rwanda. The company has so far distributed over 6,000 e-motorbikes to motorists across the country simultaneously extending automated swap stations to the respective places and mechanical services. This will continue to revolutionise the e-vehicle landscape, aiming for zero emissions, cost-cutting, smooth and seamless riding experience, impressive battery performance, and energy efficiency, according to the distributors. Speaking on women joining on board he said that “in whatever we do, we’re considering the quality of empowering women. Before, it seemed a male-dominant field but has proven otherwise that women can do the same job as men are doing. When it comes to driving, it's so seamless. To them it's more like how do they become more entrepreneurs, save for their families and we've seen a couple of riders who, to some point, are better than men, he explained. “We've put up different schemes to support women pay in installments as well and help them get bikes at affordable prices,” he said. “We have quite a bunch and enough stock. We have many already on the road. We're looking to distribute 25,000 by the end of the year. With the help of Rwandans, we're going to make this a better thing,” he added. These two-wheelers use batteries as power sources to run with 250W to 750W power output. They are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs that are typically removable and recharged using standard electrical outlets. Their capacity determines their range – typically 300 to 900 watt-hours on one charge and a top speed of 83 km/hour. The range of an e-bike depends on multiple factors, including battery capacity, motor power, level of pedal assistance used, terrain, rider weight, and riding conditions. On a single charge, an e-bike travels 20 to 80 miles (32 to 128 kilometres) and can be rechargeable to full in less than an hour. ALSO READ: Spiro reaches 1 million battery swaps with its electric two-wheelers in Africa Divine Benimana, a mother of one, has been driving Spiro motorcycle for three years now, and taxi motorcycling is her passion. Before, her family and friends did not understand her choice, but knowing the benefits, she paid no attention to what was being said. Over time, she has mastered the basics of the road. “I no longer fear being on the road. Before, it was difficult. I bought the bike and paid for it in installments, which was manageable for me. I’m almost done paying, and it has helped me a lot. I encourage my fellow women to reconsider their ambitions. It is possible if we made it, they can too,” she said. “I can save up to Rwf10,000 per day after covering all expenses. On top of that, I contribute daily to social contribution groups, and that’s where my savings go. My family and I are doing well,” she added. Bruno Rangira, Mayor of Kirehe District, told motorists that Spiro is advancing the country’s green agenda to combat climate change while noting that the district will ultimately adopt and fully embrace the initiative. “We commend Spiro for this effort. We do not have many petrol stations, yet we have a large number of diesel-powered motorcycles. Many people buy and store petrol in their homes. For these, if we have more charging stations, it will not only promote e-mobility but also be more cost-effective in terms of maintenance,” he said.
