Converted and Shared Light Electric Vehicles in Ghana: A Technical and Economic Analysis Based on Converted ICE Motorbikes and e-mopeds

Abstract

This paper sets out to examine the economic and technical viability of LEVs in Ghana as a business model. It further examines the profitability of converted motorbikes which are adapted from ICE motorbikes. The business model is built on technical requirements of the ICE conversion in Ghana. The authors used a case study approach to analyze an exemplary business model based on 40 e-mopeds and 20 stand-alone solar charging stations deployed on the campus of KNUST until December 2021. A further analysis was also done on the process of converting an ICE motorbike to create a minimum viable product which runs on electricity. The business model examines the profitability of such converted motorbikes taking into account production and assembly costs whiles also considering fixed costs. The results of the analysis prove that a single e-moped deployed in the model was profitable after 6.3 years and a converted motorbike was profitable compared to a conventional motorbike between 22500 km to 32500 km of use depending on the purchase scenario. The discussion and results provide a good basis for further research and give support to sustainable business models and manufacturing of LEVs.