Akagera National Park in Rwanda has purchased two electric motorcycles from the Ampersand company for use in wildlife tracking and park operations.
Electric motorcycles designed for off-road use allow park staff to monitor animals such as rhinos, elephants and lions with less noise and zero emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered motorcycles.
“E-motos improve our ability to track and protect species by reducing operating costs and minimizing disturbance,” said Luke Davey, Operations Manager at Akagera National Park.
Park officials said the quiet electric bikes allow staff to get closer to wildlife without scaring them. Motorcycles have speakers that can warn animals of approaching vehicles without loud engine noise.
For Ampersand, providing vehicles to Akagera will allow the company to test its electric motorcycle design and battery technology on the park's rugged terrain.
The partnership aims to support conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism. Gasoline vehicles can disturb the tranquility of the park due to noise and smoke.
“Using electric vehicles demonstrates our commitment to environmentally friendly tourism practices,” said Davey.
As part of Akagera's wildlife conservation mission, species such as black and white rhinos have been reintroduced in recent years. Monitoring rhino movements is a key part of protecting the endangered animal from poachers.
