African company Ampersand could be changing the game for motorcycle taxi drivers.

African company Ampersand could be changing the game for motorcycle taxi drivers.

The short version:

• Ampersand, a startup company in Rwanda, is making electric motorcycles for motorcycle taxis and delivery services. 
• According to the company, a rider on an Ampersand motorcycle can make up to $4.40 a day, as opposed to $1.60 a day on an ICE motorcycle. 
• The increase in income is due to saving money on fuel, less rider fatigue, and a lower starting price. 

If Ampersand can develop a product that is more affordable, is a better tool to generate revenue, and is better for the environment, then hats off to it. I’m a little concerned that there was no discussion about range, charging times, or performance. Of course, performance isn’t the first thing a buyer might be thinking about when starting a delivery or taxi business, but range and charging times could be a deal-breaker.