Spiro, a prominent player in Africa's electric vehicle sector, has announced its acquisition of the UK-based engineering firm Coexlion for an undisclosed amount. This strategic purchase is set to significantly enhance Spiro's in-house design and development capabilities. The company also plans to establish its first African research and development center in Nairobi, Kenya, marking a pivotal step toward localizing e-mobility technology.
Strengthening In-House Capabilities
The acquisition integrates Coexlion's team of 28 seasoned engineers, who have contributed to over 25 global motorcycle programs. Their expertise in chassis development, battery systems, and vehicle integration will fortify Spiro's existing technology platform. This new talent complements Spiro's R&D center in Pune and its team of over 150 engineers.
Currently, Spiro assembles its electric motorcycles from kits imported primarily from China, with some parts sourced from India. This deal is designed to reduce that reliance by embedding critical engineering knowledge directly within its African operations. The move aims to accelerate product development cycles and improve the localization of vehicle architecture.
A Strategic Hub for African Innovation
A key outcome of the acquisition is the planned establishment of a new research and development center in Nairobi. This facility represents a significant investment in Kenya's burgeoning EV ecosystem, which has seen limited local R&D despite growing adoption. It will serve as Spiro's primary innovation hub on the continent.
Locating the R&D center in its largest market provides Spiro with direct access to invaluable real-world data and rider feedback. This proximity allows for rapid product iteration based on African road conditions and user patterns. Such localized insight is difficult to replicate from engineering bases in other parts of the world.
Driving a Continental E-Mobility Vision
This acquisition is a cornerstone of Spiro's long-term strategy to build a comprehensive African mobility platform, as stated by founder Gagan Gupta. The company's ambition extends beyond assembly to owning the entire product lifecycle, from initial design to final manufacturing. This ensures vehicles are affordable and perfectly adapted to the African operating environment.
With over 100,000 electric motorcycles on the road and more than 2,500 battery-swapping stations, Spiro has a dominant presence across six African nations. This extensive network provides a robust foundation for integrating advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities. The initiative also aligns with the industrialization goals of its backers, including Afreximbank.
Coexlion founder Thomas Llewellyn noted that joining Spiro offers a unique opportunity to apply his team's expertise at a much greater scale. He expressed enthusiasm for supporting Spiro's mission to advance electric mobility across the continent. The collaboration is focused on delivering locally relevant engineering and manufacturing solutions for a high-potential market.
The acquisition of Coexlion by Spiro signals a major shift in Africa's e-mobility landscape, moving from technology importation to local innovation. By establishing a dedicated R&D center in Kenya, Spiro is not only enhancing its product offerings but also investing in a self-sufficient ecosystem. This strategic move solidifies its position as a leader poised to shape the future of sustainable transport in Africa.