Ogun State and Spiro is set to complete 13 swap stations for electric bikes in 6 months. Kicking things off with 13 swapping stations for the pilot, which as you should know is expected to be completed within the next six months, the state in question plans to expand to more 250 stations.
Ogun State and Spiro to Complete 13 Swap Stations
The state recently conducted motorcycle test drives in Abeokuta, the state capital, assessing their performance on rough roads and in various areas to ensure durability and adaptability. Originally established in 2019 under the name “M Auto Electric,” the electric vehicle company aimed to accelerate access to renewable energy technology within the mobility industry.
Following a rebranding and launch into the African market in 2022 under the name Spiro, the company has expanded its operations to Benin, Togo, Rwanda, and Uganda. With the recent partnership, Spiro is also venturing into Nigeria, alongside established alliances in Kenya, such as Watu Credit, to offer motorcycle financing.
The Startup Boasts Deploying Up To 12,000 Bikes
The startup boasts of deploying up to 12,000 bikes, covering 186 million kilometers emission-free and preventing approximately 10,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Kaushik Burman, CEO of Spiro, hailed the partnership and launch in Ogun State as a bold initiative towards electrifying Nigeria. Spiro offers a unique service called “battery swapping,” allowing users to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones at designated stations.
Spiro Implementing of a State of Charge (SoC) Billing System
In early February, Spiro announced the implementation of a State of Charge (SoC) billing system, revolutionizing customer interactions with electric vehicles. This system accurately calculates the charge used, ensuring customers only pay for the energy consumed.
The State Government’s Collaboration with Other Agencies
The state government has collaborated with unions, commercial riders, and the Ministry of Transport on the battery-swapping project, aiming for a transition from internal combustion engines to sustainable energy, which could potentially reduce operating costs by 30-40%.
Spiro’s Entry into the Nigerian Market
Spiro’s entry into the Nigerian market coincides with the country’s escalating fuel prices following the removal of fuel subsidies in early 2023. Nigeria has become increasingly attractive to electric vehicle manufacturers and companies. In October 2023, a Nigerian EV company, Possible Electric Vehicle Solution (Possible EVS), announced plans to establish manufacturing plants for electric vehicles in the country. In November, BHN Transport and Logistics Limited launched its 45-ton electric trucks in Ogun State.
The Widespread Adoption of Electric Vehicles in Nigeria
However, industry experts remain cautious about the widespread adoption of electric vehicles in Nigeria due to various challenges, including inadequate power supply, a shortage of certified EV technicians, limited charging infrastructure, and insufficient service providers for different EV models.
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