Spiro Expands Electric Mobility Across Africa

Spiro, an African electric vehicle company based in Nairobi, Kenya, is making bold moves to change how transportation works across the continent. Formerly known as MAuto, the company focuses on electric motorbikes and battery swapping technology. With the rise in demand for cleaner, more affordable transport solutions, Spiro is stepping in to provide an alternative to fuel-powered motorcycles, which are widely used for personal and commercial transport in Africa.

As of 2025, Spiro has deployed 18,000 electric bikes across six African countries, including Nigeria, where the need for sustainable transport is growing rapidly. The company’s business model is designed to be both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. One of its key innovations is the battery swapping system. Instead of waiting for a battery to charge, Spiro riders can quickly exchange a used battery for a fully charged one at swap stations. This process reduces downtime and helps riders stay on the road longer, which is especially useful for delivery drivers and commercial transport operators.

Spiro has already completed over 11 million battery swaps, proving that the system works and is being used frequently. This milestone shows that electric mobility is not just a concept in Africa, it is already being practiced on a large scale. The company believes that this technology can help reduce the continent’s dependence on imported fuel and lower harmful carbon emissions in busy cities.

To support its growing operations, Spiro has announced plans to build two new assembly plants. One will be located in Kenya, where the company is headquartered, and the other in Ogun State, Nigeria. These plants will allow Spiro to assemble bikes locally, reducing production costs and creating jobs in both countries. Local production also means faster delivery of bikes to customers and better maintenance services, making the overall business more efficient and accessible.

Spiro’s long-term vision is ambitious. By 2030, the company aims to have 2 million electric bikes in use across Africa. If this goal is achieved, it would make Spiro one of the largest electric vehicle companies on the continent. The move aligns with broader global goals to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner cities, especially as climate change continues to affect weather patterns and public health in many African countries.

Investors and governments are beginning to take notice of the potential benefits of electric mobility. By offering a product that is both environmentally sustainable and financially practical, Spiro is creating new opportunities for African entrepreneurs, delivery workers, and commuters. The company is also positioning itself as a leader in Africa’s green economy, which is expected to grow rapidly over the next decade.

Spiro’s journey is a strong example of how innovation and business can work together to solve real problems. By building a network of electric bikes and battery stations, and investing in local manufacturing, Spiro is not only expanding its business but also contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future for Africa.