A battery swap startup turns petrol-powered motorcycles into EVs

The new power packs also provide nighttime lighting for villages

Spotted: Many Asian cities are known for the high numbers of motorbikes on their roads. In Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia between 83 and 87 per cent of households own motorcycles. Despite being smaller than cars, the sheer numbers of these vehicles on the road contribute to ongoing air pollution problems in many urban areas. Seeking to change that, startup Oyika has created a battery swapping service that turns petrol-powered motorbikes into electric vehicles (EVs). 

The company supplies charging stations that work for e-bikes, cars, and tuk-tuks, helping to keep accessibility high and installation resources low. The service works across brands, with owners of almost any type of motorcycle able to make the change to an electric system. As an added function, the batteries provide an additional lighting resource for use at night. 

To help make the transition to electric power as easy as possible, Oyika bundles services for a monthly fee. Comparing its packages to those of mobile phone service providers, the company’s plan include a range of battery sizes and charging volumes. Users pay-per-use or sign up for weekly prepaid options or monthly postpaid subscriptions. The variety of options available are designed to appeal to working individuals as well as businesses small and large.   

Recent funding from the Southeast Asia Clean Energy Facility (SEACEF) via Singapore-based Clime Capital investment firm is helping Oyika focus on expanding its market reach in Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Further development of the technology is ongoing, and the company plans to introduce its services in additional countries in the future.  

In addition to personal use, EVs are being used as a means to decarbonise many last mile deliveries. Springwise has spotted innovations including self-driving delivery robots and solar-powered tuk-tuks.