Africa’s Electric Bike Boom: Why Chinese Imports Are Surging Across the Continent

Africa’s imports of electric motorcycles and three-wheelers from China rose 60 per cent in the first half of 2026 to USD 114.6 million, with Morocco, Egypt and Algeria recording the highest imports.

Morocco led the continent, importing 80,188 electric two-wheelers worth USD 21.7 million during the period, followed by Egypt and Algeria. In sub-Saharan Africa, South Africa recorded the highest imports, with 19,635 electric bikes valued at USD 6.9 million.

The increase comes as investment in electric vehicle companies is growing in parts of East and Central Africa. Companies are developing local assembly plants, battery-swapping networks and charging infrastructure for electric motorcycles used by commercial riders.

Peter Kossakowski, an independent electric two- and three-wheeler specialist, said Chinese imports in North Africa are largely electric scooters and mopeds used for commuting and short trips. In East and West Africa, motorcycles are more commonly used commercially.

Spiro, Africa’s largest EV bike firm, raised more than USD 348 million in investments. Other companies are investing in local assembly, battery-swapping and charging networks aimed at motorcycle taxi and delivery markets.

Tom Courtright, a non-resident fellow at the African Tech Futures Lab, said Chinese manufacturers supply many electric motorcycles used in East and West Africa, while local companies adapt them for commercial use and operate related energy infrastructure.

Battery swapping allows riders to replace depleted batteries instead of waiting for motorcycles to recharge. However, battery and swapping systems remain fragmented.

Much of the industry in East and West Africa still depends on imported components. Motors, controllers and battery cells are mostly imported, while local production is concentrated on simpler parts such as seats, footrests and metal frames.

Electric motorcycles accounted for 20 per cent of motorcycle sales in Uganda last year and roughly 15 per cent in Kenya, Courtright said. Widespread electrification could eventually reduce fuel imports by about USD 600 million in Uganda and USD 600-800 million in Kenya.