Petrocity, one of the leading fuel station operators in Kenya, has partnered with Spiro, the largest electric vehicle (EV) company in Africa, to offer a new service for its customers: battery swapping.
This service will allow EV users to exchange their depleted batteries for fully charged ones at selected Petrocity locations throughout Kenya, in less than a minute.
This collaboration is part of Petrocity’s strategy to diversify its portfolio and meet the growing demand for sustainable and affordable mobility solutions in the country. Petrocity’s network of over 16 fuel stations in Kenya, and 50 more in Uganda, will provide a convenient and accessible platform for Spiro’s innovative automatic smart battery swap stations, which are set to launch by the end of February.
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A leader in electric mobility in Africa
Spiro is the leading EV company in Africa, with a vision to create a Pan-African smart energy ecosystem, providing a more eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to conventional transportation. Spiro offers a range of EV products, including motorcycles, three-wheelers, and cars, catering to different segments of the market. Spiro also provides financing, insurance, and maintenance services to its customers, making EVs more accessible and attractive.
Spiro is committed to delivering high-quality and safe products, using its proprietary State of Charge (SoC) technology to monitor and manage the performance and lifespan of its batteries. The SoC system, operated by Spiro’s dedicated tech team in Pune, ensures that the batteries are optimally charged and maintained, reducing the risks and costs associated with battery degradation and damage.
Samir Misra, Head of R&D/Engineering at Spiro, said: “Our automatic swap stations, paired with Spiro batteries, represent the pinnacle of safety and quality in the EV market. These stations are designed to offer our customers a seamless and secure experience, ensuring that every swap delivers not just a fully charged battery, but one that meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. At Spiro, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of technology to provide solutions that are not only innovative but also trustworthy and efficient. We are setting a new benchmark for electric mobility across Africa.”
A game-changer in user experience
Spiro is innovative not only in EV technology but also in user experience. The company is preparing to launch its smart app, which will significantly enhance the rider experience with features like GPS mapping and comprehensive functionality, seamlessly integrating with Spiro’s Pan-African smart energy ecosystem. The app will allow users to locate the nearest swap station, check the availability and status of batteries, and pay for the service with ease.
The app will also enable users to access other benefits, such as loyalty programs, discounts, and rewards, as well as connect with other EV users and communities. The app is a testament to Spiro’s commitment to not only advancing EV technology but also ensuring the safety, convenience, and satisfaction of its users.
A strategic partnership approach
Spiro’s partnership approach is intrinsically linked to its tech stack and vision for a Pan-African smart energy ecosystem. This approach is designed to foster collaborations that provide access to asset finance, swap station franchises, fleet delivery, and more, enabling a comprehensive network of services that support the growth and accessibility of EVs across Africa.
By working with respected partners like Petrocity, Spiro is able to leverage its extensive network and reputation, as well as tap into its existing customer base and infrastructure. Petrocity, on the other hand, benefits from diversifying its portfolio and offering a new service that meets the growing demand for sustainable and affordable mobility.
The partnership between Spiro and Petrocity is a win-win situation for both parties, as well as for the environment and society. It is a clear example of how collaboration and innovation can drive positive change and create value for all stakeholders.