The electric vehicle (EV) shift in the U.S. may be facing challenges, but East Africa is witnessing a dynamic rise in the electric motorbike sector, with numerous startups entering the market. Among them, Zeno has recently secured $25 million in a Series A funding round aimed at expanding its app-based battery-swap network and increasing production of its Emara motorbikes.
Approximately $20.5 million of the new funding is equity capital, led by Congruent Ventures and backed by Active Impact and Lowercarbon Capital. The remaining $4.5 million comes from a debt facility provided by Camber Road and Trifecta Capital. Notably, Zeno had previously raised $9.5 million during its seed funding round, with investments from Lowercarbon Ventures and Toyota Ventures.
Since its launch 18 months ago, Zeno has manufactured over 800 Emara motorbikes and established more than 150 charging stations across four urban areas in Kenya and Uganda. The company aims to attract riders by offering operational costs that are 50% lower than those of conventional internal combustion bikes, with a current backlog of over 25,000 orders from retail and fleet customers.
The Emara electric motorbike boasts a range of 100 kilometres (60 miles) on a full charge, with the ability to carry up to 250 kilograms (550 pounds). Priced at approximately $1,300 without a battery and $2,000 with one, the Emara offers peak power of 8 kilowatts—equivalent to a 150 cc combustion engine—ensuring that it can tackle steep inclines easily, making it especially appealing for bodaboda operators who transport passengers and goods.
Zeno also allows customers to purchase the bike without a battery, offering subscription plans or pay-per-use options for charging. Riders can recharge their motorbikes at home or at Zeno’s battery-swapping stations. Furthermore, Zeno is enhancing the ownership experience with a variety of customisation options, similar to offerings from companies like Slate Auto in the U.S.
In addition to motorbikes, Zeno is developing a battery dock that can be used by homes and businesses to power lights and appliances. This device is currently in the prototyping phase, with a trial underway involving several customers. If successful, it could establish Zeno as a key player in the electrical infrastructure of East Africa, where many power grids are underdeveloped. Their modular, portable battery solutions could fill a critical need, especially as other companies work on wider mini- and microgrid initiatives.
Co-founder Michael Spencer drew inspiration for Zeno from his experience at Tesla, emphasising that the potential for EVs and renewable energy is even greater in emerging markets with fewer barriers.
Overall, Zeno is positioned well to thrive in the growing electric vehicle landscape of East Africa, exemplifying the region’s innovative approach to sustainable transport and energy solutions.
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