Inside Spiro’s mission to cut Africa’s fuel dependence with 300 million km of clean rides

For thousands of African commuters, Spiro is leading the way to a cleaner, more affordable future. With over 22,000 electric bikes on the roads of Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Tanzania, the company is rapidly changing how people move across the continent.

Since its launch, Spiro riders have covered more than 300 million kilometres without a single drop of fuel. This has prevented over 21,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, a major step towards reducing air pollution in some of Africa’s most congested cities.

“We are not just offering electric bikes; we are building an ecosystem for sustainable mobility,” said Kaushik Burman, Spiro’s CEO. “Our battery-swapping technology and charging infrastructure make clean transport convenient and accessible.”

Expanding Across Nigeria

In 2024, Spiro launched in Ogun State, Nigeria, marking another major expansion. Supported by Governor Dapo Abiodunthe company is rolling out its battery-swapping stations and charging points across Abeokuta, Lagos, Abuja, and Oyo State.

The initiative is expected to create jobs while cutting fuel dependence. In a country where petrol prices have surged due to subsidy removals, electric alternatives are becoming more attractive to both commercial and personal riders.

With a 7% annual rise in greenhouse gas emissions, Nigeria’s transition to electric mobility is crucial. Experts believe widespread EV adoption could significantly improve urban air quality reduce reliance on imported fuel, and align with global climate goals.

Recycling Batteries for a Greener Future

To ensure sustainability, Spiro has partnered with ACE Green Recycling, a US-based firm specializing in lithium-ion battery recycling. The agreement will see ACE establish recycling centres across Africa to manage end-of-life batteries.

“Every battery we deploy will have a responsible end-of-life solution,” Burman said. “This is a big step forward for clean energy on the continent.”

ACE’s CEO, Nishchay Chadha, added: “With our innovative LithiumFirst™ technology, we aim to create a circular economy for batteries, reducing waste and promoting responsible consumption.”

Spiro’s Global Recognition

Spiro’s rapid expansion has earned global attention. In 2024, Time magazine** named it one of the 100 most influential businesses** shaping the future.

Governments are taking notice too. In 2023, Uganda announced plans to replace 140,000 petrol-powered motorcycle taxis with electric alternatives; many of which will be supplied by Spiro.

Davido’s Electric Bike Partnership

The company is also catching the eye of high-profile figures. In January 2025, Nigerian music star Davido partnered with Spiro to launch a personal line of electric bikes.

“This is about more than just bikes; it’s about empowering riders across Africa,” Davido said in a statement. “Spiro is creating real change, and I’m proud to be part of this movement.”

With backing from both the private and public sectors, Spiro’s influence in Africa’s electric vehicle industry is only set to grow. As the continent shifts towards sustainable transportation, the company’s vision of a cleaner, more efficient mobility system is becoming a reality.

Read more on Can South Africa lead Africa’s EV race? New tax laws could decide