Africa’s leading electric motorcycle manufacturer, Spiro, has unveiled the EKON M1 V3, a new e-bike designed to meet the demands of Rwanda’s varied terrain and the needs of local riders.

The motorcycle was unveiled on August 14, 2026, at Spiro's stand during the ongoing International Trade Fair in Gikondo, Kigali.

The launch brought together Spiro staff, customers and partners, as well as visitors attending the trade fair.

According to Spiro, the EKON M1 V3 was developed with Rwanda’s mountainous landscape in mind. The country, known as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” has varying terrain and road conditions, including steep slopes and uneven or challenging surfaces.

The company said the motorcycle was designed to handle these conditions and has been given the nickname “The Motorcycle of a Thousand Hills.”

Spiro Rwanda Managing Director Amit Chawla said the new model was developed after considering the daily challenges faced by motorcycle taxi riders.

“This motorcycle is different from the ones we have previously brought to the market. When we looked at what our riders face every day, from navigating hills and different types of terrain to the need for a motorcycle that is affordable and easy to maintain, the Ekon M1 V3 is the answer,” Chawla said.

Some motorcycle taxi riders who were among the first to test the EKON M1 V3 said its design sets it apart from other Spiro motorcycles previously introduced in Rwanda.

Mfashwenimana Amiel said the motorcycle’s higher ground clearance makes it better suited to uneven and difficult terrain.

“With other motorcycles, when you reach an uphill area or a bad road, the motorcycle can sometimes hit the ground. But the EKON M1 V3 is high enough that even when you ride on uneven roads, it does not hit the ground. That makes it the best for our roads,” he said.

Spiro says the EKON M1 V3 can help users save up to 35 percent compared with using a petrol-powered motorcycle in the same category.

The company also says replacement parts for the model can cost up to 40 percent less, potentially reducing maintenance and operating costs for users.

The launch comes as Spiro continues to expand Rwanda’s electric mobility infrastructure.

Over the past three years, the company says it has invested in developing and expanding electric transport infrastructure across the country, including battery-charging stations in different locations.

Spiro has also launched seven large “mega stations” as part of efforts to strengthen the infrastructure supporting electric motorcycles in Rwanda.

The company plans to continue promoting the EKON M1 V3 across the country, giving motorcycle riders and other potential customers an opportunity to learn more about the model and its features.