Moroccan startup GoSwap has secured major funding from Azur Innovation Fund to grow its electric scooter network across Africa.
Founded by Hamza Slimani, GoSwap runs stations where riders can swap a dead battery for a fully charged one in under 10 seconds. The company is aiming for over 20 million dirhams to expand from Casablanca to Marrakech and other big cities.
“Our goal is to make electric transport affordable for everyone by lowering the cost of buying and using vehicles,” Mr Slimani said. He added that traffic and rising costs are major problems in cities.
GoSwap scooters are sold without batteries, which makes them cheaper to buy. Riders pay only for the energy they use, costing 25 to 29.4 MAD per 100km. The system is especially useful for delivery riders and e-commerce companies, who can save up to 60% compared to petrol scooters.
Right now, 20 swapping stations are working in Casablanca at petrol stations and CashPlus outlets. GoSwap says each scooter using its system cuts carbon emissions by about 60%.
Adnane Filali from Azur Innovation Fund said the model works well for Africa’s growing delivery and commuter markets. “It helps both daily riders and the booming online delivery sector,” he said.
GoSwap’s growth comes as Morocco pushes for cleaner transport. The country wants 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The government offers full VAT and road tax exemptions for electric vehicles, lower import duties, and bonuses of up to 100,000 MAD for businesses buying EVs.
Morocco is also becoming a hub for EV production. A $5.6 billion battery factory in Kenitra is set to start in 2026, and local carmaker Neo Motors has unveiled Morocco’s first locally designed electric car. Companies like Tesla and Renault are also setting up operations in the country.
Scooters and motorcycles are the main way people get around in many African cities. Most are used for work, like taxis or deliveries. Charging electric vehicles is tricky due to unstable power, so battery-swapping stations like GoSwap’s make it easier to go electric.
