Mumbai-based electric two-wheeler startup One Electric has recently taken a significant step in its expansion strategy by starting the production of its EV motorcycles in Kenya. This move is part of their broader plan to expand their presence throughout Africa.
A Strategic Joint Venture
To jumpstart the production of their Kridn motorcycles, One Electric has entered into a strategic joint venture with a vehicle manufacturing company in Kenya. Currently, they are sourcing key components, technological experience, and technical knowledge from India to support this endeavor.
Local Manufacturing for Swift Growth
One Electric has identified local manufacturing as a key strategy to expand its operations quickly in Africa. This approach also allows for localized after-sales service, which improves customer satisfaction. Moreover, as per reports, the startup is preparing to set up a second production facility in Kenya. This facility is scheduled to commence operations within a short span of two months.
Maintaining Stringent Quality Standards
Gaurav Uppal, the CEO of One Electric, emphasizes the company’s dedication to maintaining high product quality. The company’s engineers are actively involved in overseeing the training and production processes for their motorcycles in Kenya to uphold their stringent quality standards. It is worth noting that the startup is on schedule to complete its initial production batch within a remarkable two-week timeframe.
Expanding Manufacturing Footprint
One Electric plan is to expand its manufacturing presence in Africa and Asia, focusing on gradual localization based on the readiness of each local industry. The company will prioritize localizing specific components like handlebars, stands, and carriers in the initial stages. As the local ecosystem develops further, One Electric intends to broaden its localization efforts.
Battery Manufacturing Plans
In the future, One Electric has plans to set up an EV battery manufacturing facility in Africa by the end of this year. This decision supports the company’s goal of becoming self-reliant in important components.
Global Expansion Ambitions
In addition to Africa, One Electric also plans to expand its operations into other markets such as South America and Southeast Asia. The company has already begun conversations with potential local partners in these regions, demonstrating its aspiration to establish itself as a worldwide player in the electric vehicle industry.
One Electric’s Impressive Journey
One Electric, established in 2019, offers a diverse range of four vehicles under their Kridn lineup, specifically designed for urban commuting. The company has made significant progress by successfully selling vehicles in six different countries and forming strategic partnerships with Indian original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to produce electric bikes and source components.
Navigating a Competitive Landscape
One Electric faces tough competition in the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing industry. Established players like Ola Electric, Ather, TVS, Hero, and other contenders pose a challenge. Although ebikes are not as popular as e-scooters yet, several Indian manufacturers such as Ultraviolette, Yulu, and Kabira Mobility have entered the EV bike segment. Furthermore, Ola Electric plans to introduce four new electric bike models in 2024.
Conclusion
The start of electric motorcycle production by One Electric in Kenya marks a significant milestone in their expansion plans. The company is committed to gradually increasing local production, intends to establish a battery manufacturing plant, and aims to capture global markets. Their journey in the competitive electric vehicle industry reflects their determination to foster innovation and provide customers worldwide with top-notch electric motorcycles that prioritize sustainability and quality. If you are looking for a wheeler EV charging station or EV batteries, look no further than HI-Charge. The company provides two and four-wheeler EV chargers to different sectors in Mumbai and Gujarat.
