Dodai Manufacturing Plc, a key player in Ethiopia’s electric mobility space, has launched a new collaboration with the Addis Ababa Transportation Bureau following the conclusion of its previous agreement with Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH).
This new alliance is centered around promoting sustainable urban transportation in the capital through a pilot project involving 40 electric motorcycles and an innovative battery swapping infrastructure. The initiative was officially introduced during a ceremony at Dodai’s facility in Haile Garment.
While the donated electric motorcycles are provided without batteries, they are fully integrated with Dodai’s battery swapping system. This system enables riders to quickly exchange used batteries for charged ones at designated stations, significantly reducing downtime and eliminating the challenges associated with long charging periods.
Goals and objectives
Dodai CEO Yuma Sasaki stated at the launch that the project underscores the company’s dedication to transforming city transport, encouraging environmental sustainability, and creating job opportunities for the youth. If the pilot proves effective and gains approval from city authorities, Dodai plans to begin commercial sales within the next three to four months.
This renewed focus on Addis Ababa follows the expiration of Dodai’s MoU with EIH on March 22, 2025. While that earlier agreement aimed to develop a countrywide battery swapping framework, it was discontinued as EIH shifted its attention to a broader venture capital strategy supporting green transportation solutions. Dodai, originally founded in Japan, cited its decision to pursue different international strategic options as part of its global growth plan.
Despite ending its formal arrangement with EIH, Dodai remains committed to Ethiopia’s electric vehicle future. Its battery swapping model is designed to resolve common barriers in EV adoption — particularly long charging durations and battery lifespan concerns — making e-motorcycles more accessible and viable for everyday use.
The Addis Ababa Transportation Bureau and other city stakeholders have welcomed the pilot as a valuable step toward cleaner transportation, smarter urban infrastructure, and economic empowerment. The data and user feedback collected during the program will help guide the city’s broader electric mobility policy going forward.