Ampersand, the continent’s foremost electric vehicle (EV) energy technology company, has unveiled “Alpha” as the new identity of its flagship electric motorcycle. This is in a strategic move marking a new chapter in Africa’s electric mobility journey. The announcement signals a brand evolution that separates the e-motorcycle from the company’s core energy and battery swap infrastructure business.
The rebrand to Alpha has designed to give the motorcycle its own market identity, reflecting its success as the first commercial electric motorcycle in Africa and its market dominance, particularly in Rwanda. Ampersand currently powers over 5,700 e-motorcycles that travel approximately 950,000 kilometers daily. These operations represent a major step toward reducing carbon emissions and improving urban air quality across the continent.
“Alpha is not just a new name, it is a recognition of a product that has proven itself in the toughest urban and rural conditions,” said Alper Tilev, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer at Ampersand. “This change acknowledges our leadership in electric mobility and our ambition to scale its impact.”
Alpha motorcycles command 90 percent of the electric motorcycle market in Rwanda, outperforming global and local competitors alike. Independent studies show that Alpha delivers up to 40 percent more operational hours between maintenance cycles compared to competing models. Retention rates among riders exceed 98 percent, with many becoming brand advocates within their communities.
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Alongside the rebranding, Ampersand has also introduced more than 50 user-informed upgrades to its latest Alpha model. The updates include improved suspension systems, enhanced hill-climb support through a “hill park” feature, stronger wheels for off-road conditions, regenerative braking functionality, and an improved turning radius. The latest model also integrates ergonomic design changes for greater comfort and handling, reaffirming Ampersand’s focus on user-driven design.
Muhamed Ceesay, Senior Hardware Product Manager at Ampersand, emphasized that each feature was informed by feedback from thousands of riders across East Africa. “This generation of Alpha motorcycles represents years of refinement and lessons from real-world usage,” he said.
While Alpha continues to lead in electric mobility, Ampersand’s broader focus is now squarely on becoming Africa’s dominant EV energy platform. Its battery swap system—designed with AI and IoT capabilities—currently performs close to 18,000 swaps and recharges daily, making it the most advanced on the continent.
The energy platform includes predictive maintenance systems and real-time battery monitoring, with over 99 percent network uptime. Ampersand’s backend technology also optimizes battery use, reducing operational costs for riders and fleet operators.
Opening the energy ecosystem
Ampersand announced plans to open its energy infrastructure to other motorcycle manufacturers. Discussions are underway with several regional and international companies, as the firm positions itself as an enabler of Africa’s broader EV transition. This includes a landmark partnership with Chinese EV giant BYD.
“After years of promoting the case for electric motorcycles, we have now reached a tipping point,” said Josh Whale, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ampersand. “By integrating multiple brands into our battery network, we are building a system that benefits more riders, creates affordability, and accelerates clean mobility adoption at scale.”
Ampersand’s move toward an open ecosystem marks a notable shift in the EV landscape. It positions the company as both a technology provider and an infrastructure partner, potentially catalyzing a wider transformation in how two-wheel transport is powered across Africa.
With the Alpha brand at the forefront, Ampersand is aiming to solidify its dual identity—as a motorcycle innovator and as Africa’s leading EV energy infrastructure provider. The rebrand serves not only as a marketing decision but as a signal of strategic intent to lead Africa’s clean transportation future.
