Launch Design, Hybrid Motors Unveil Massive EV Assembly Plants for Lagos, Abuja - Newstrends
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Launch Design, Hybrid Motors Unveil Massive EV Assembly Plants for Lagos, Abuja

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Launch Design, Hybrid Motors Unveil Massive EV Assembly Plants for Lagos, Abuja

 

Nigeria’s ambition to become a major player in Africa’s electric vehicle industry has received a major boost following a landmark partnership between Chinese automotive engineering firm Launch Design Shanghai and Hybrid Motors Nigeria.

The two companies have signed a strategic agreement to establish electric vehicle manufacturing and assembly plants in Lagos and Abuja, a move expected to deepen local automobile production, accelerate technology transfer and strengthen Nigeria’s transition to cleaner transportation.

The partnership centres on the development of “Acely,” Hybrid Motors Nigeria’s indigenous vehicle brand tailored specifically for Nigerian roads, climate conditions and consumer needs.

Signed in Shanghai on May 8, 2026, the agreement is being positioned as one of the most significant collaborations yet in Nigeria’s emerging EV sector, combining Chinese engineering expertise with local manufacturing ambitions.

Under the arrangement, the companies plan to build two production facilities with a projected combined annual output of 70,000 vehicles at full capacity.

The Lagos plant, located along the Lekki-Epe corridor, will serve as the primary production and assembly hub with a planned capacity of 50,000 units yearly. Its proximity to the Lekki Deep Sea Port is expected to support exports to West African markets including Ghana, Benin, Togo and Côte d’Ivoire.

The Abuja facility, to be situated within the Free Zone Business Area of Centenary Economic City, will function as a secondary manufacturing and technology centre with an annual production target of 20,000 units.

The location is expected to enhance access to Northern Nigeria and neighbouring Sahel markets while benefiting from free-zone incentives and strategic trade routes.

Executives of both companies described the alliance as a transformative step capable of reshaping Nigeria’s automotive landscape.

Chief Executive Officer of Hybrid Motors Nigeria, Mr. Jubril Arogundade, said the partnership represents a major leap toward building a globally competitive automobile industry rooted in local innovation.

“This partnership is more than a business agreement; it is a commitment to building Nigeria’s automotive future,” he said.

“With Acely, we are proving that world-class vehicles can be conceived, designed and assembled right here in Nigeria by Nigerians for Nigerians.”

Chief Executive Officer of Launch Design Shanghai, Mr. Wang Xun, said the collaboration combines advanced automotive engineering with strong local market understanding.

“Together, we are not just building vehicles; we are building an industry,” he said.

Launch Design Shanghai is expected to provide engineering support spanning vehicle architecture, manufacturing process development, design optimisation and quality assurance systems.

The companies said the project would also focus on local workforce training, supply chain development and gradual localisation of vehicle components as production expands.

According to both firms, Acely vehicles will feature market-specific designs, energy-efficient systems and increasing integration of electric and hybrid propulsion technologies suited for Nigerian driving conditions.

Industry observers say the partnership aligns with Nigeria’s National Automotive Industry Development Plan and could help reduce dependence on imported vehicles while creating new jobs and boosting industrial diversification.

The companies added that the dual-facility strategy would improve operational efficiency, reduce logistics costs and position Nigeria as a growing hub within Africa’s automotive value chain.

Describing the agreement as a defining moment for the country’s auto industry, Arogundade said the Lagos and Abuja plants would lay the foundation for “a new era of mobility” driven by local manufacturing and sustainable transportation solutions.

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ABC Transport Unveils Archive Centre to Showcase Decades of Innovation, Excellence

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At the inauguration of the ABC Group Historic & Archive Centre in Owerri which coincided with the birthday of the founder, Mr. Frank Nneji, OON (extreme right). Others are (from left):Rev Fr Emma Ehioma; Hon Princewill Ugochukwu Amuchie, member representing Aboh Mbaise in the Imo state house of Assembly; and the Group MD (of ABC Group), Mr. Jude Nneji.

ABC Transport Unveils Archive Centre to Showcase Decades of Innovation, Excellence

In a remarkable celebration of legacy, innovation and corporate heritage, ABC Transport Plc officially unveiled its Historic and Archive Centre on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the company’s corporate headquarters in Owerri, Imo State.

The unveiling, which coincided with the birthday celebration of the company’s founder, Frank Nneji, marked another significant milestone in the 33-year journey of one of Nigeria’s most innovative and diversified transport and logistics companies.

Founded on February 13, 1993, ABC Transport Plc has evolved from a visionary transport company into a nationally recognised brand known for pioneering modern transport solutions, operational excellence and customer-focused innovation across Nigeria and West Africa.

The newly commissioned Historic and Archive Centre was established to document, preserve and showcase the company’s rich history and transformational journey over the decades.

The facility houses an extensive collection of historical artefacts, awards, photographs, archival documents, video recordings and memorabilia from some of the company’s defining moments.

Among the notable exhibits are memorabilia from the commissioning of the first ABC coach, the launch of Nigeria’s first ultra-modern transport terminal, the expansion into regional operations through Coach West Africa, and several landmark achievements that helped redefine road transportation and logistics services in Nigeria.

Over the course of its 33-year history, ABC Transport Plc has recorded several groundbreaking milestones, including:

1993 – Launch of the company’s first Owerri-Lagos route

1996 – Introduction of ABC Cargo Express services

1998 – Launch of Sleeper Coach Services

1999 – Partnership with NIPOST for mail transportation services

2000 – Establishment of the Driver Training Academy and commencement of e-ticketing services

2001 – Commissioning of the first ultra-modern transport terminal in West Africa, located in Abuja

2003 – Celebration of the company’s 10th anniversary and commissioning of Terminal 3 in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos

2004 – Launch of Coach West Africa, pioneering regional transport routes across West Africa

2006 – Listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and collaboration with state governments on municipal transport projects

2007 – Launch of the Shuttle Service and opening of the Port Harcourt Mega Terminal

2008 – Establishment of ABC Haulage and commencement of Sprinter Services

2012 – Launch of the Undergraduate Scholarship Award Scheme

2014 – Rollout of the first trucks from the company’s assembly-line subsidiary

2023 – Corporate rebranding, incorporation of ABC Cargo Express, and celebration of the company’s 30th anniversary

2026 – Celebration of 33 years of operations and unveiling of the Historic and Archive Centre

Designed as both a heritage and educational facility, the centre provides a serene and intellectually engaging environment where students, researchers, transport enthusiasts, business leaders and members of the public can learn about the evolution of the transport industry through the lens of ABC Transport’s journey. The facility also reflects the company’s commitment to institutional memory, leadership, innovation and nation-building.

The event was intimate yet deeply symbolic, bringing together alumni staff, pioneer employees, current management and staff, strategic partners, family members and longtime associates of the organisation who played significant roles in its early development and sustained growth.

 

Guests at the occasion shared memories and reflections on the company’s humble beginnings, transformational milestones and enduring impact on Nigeria’s transportation sector. The celebration also featured a special birthday cake-cutting ceremony in honour of the founder, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for the company’s success story.

 

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, the Group Managing Director/CEO of ABC Transport Plc, Jude Nneji, described the Historic and Archive Centre as a strategic investment in preserving institutional heritage and inspiring future generations.

“This Historic and Archive Centre is more than a collection of memories; it is a living testament to resilience, innovation, vision and the pioneering spirit that built ABC Transport over the last 33 years.

“As we continue to evolve as a modern transport and logistics company, it is important that we preserve the stories, sacrifices, milestones and achievements that shaped our journey.

“We want young people, students, professionals and future entrepreneurs to walk into this centre and understand that great institutions are built through vision, consistency, courage and service. This centre ensures that the legacy of our founder and the collective efforts of everyone who contributed to this journey will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.

The unveiling of the Historic and Archive Centre represents yet another bold step in ABC Transport Plc’s continued commitment to excellence, innovation and legacy preservation as the company positions itself for the future while honouring its storied past.

As ABC Transport celebrates 33 years of transformational impact, the company remains steadfast in its mission to deliver safe, reliable and innovative transport and logistics solutions while continuing to shape the future of mobility and logistics in Nigeria and beyond.

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Meet Jetour G700: The 904HP Luxury beast shaking SUV world

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Meet Jetour G700: The 904HP Luxury beast shaking SUV world

The battle for dominance in the premium SUV market just got fiercer as the Jetour G700 arrives with an outrageous 904-horsepower hybrid powertrain, futuristic luxury features and off-road capabilities designed to embarrass conventional rivals.

Far from being another luxury SUV, the G700 positions itself as a rolling statement of excess, power and cutting-edge engineering — a machine equally comfortable cruising through city boulevards or charging across unforgiving terrain.

At nearly 5.2 metres long, the G700 announces itself with unapologetic aggression.

Its boxy silhouette, towering stance, oversized grille and sharp matrix LED headlamps give it the presence of a military-grade explorer wrapped in executive styling.

But the real drama begins beneath the bodywork.

Powering the SUV is Jetour’s Kunpeng Super Hybrid CDM-O system, which combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with dual electric motors to unleash a staggering 904 horsepower and 1,135Nm of torque.

Those numbers translate into astonishing performance for a vehicle of its size. The G700 rockets from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds — territory usually reserved for elite supercars rather than heavyweight SUVs.

Despite its brutal acceleration, the G700 is engineered for endurance. It boasts a driving range of up to 1,400 kilometres, allowing long-distance adventures with fewer charging or refuelling stops.

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Jetour also ensures the vehicle is far more than a straight-line performer.

Its adaptive suspension system, triple differential locks and 970mm wading depth equip it for serious off-road punishment, from rocky trails to flood-prone roads. Adding to its arsenal is the eye-catching “Tank Turn” technology, enabling the SUV to rotate sharply in tight spaces like a military vehicle.

Inside, the G700 swaps rugged toughness for first-class indulgence.

A massive 35.4-inch 3K panoramic display dominates the cabin, creating a futuristic cockpit atmosphere, while premium Nappa leather massage seats deliver limousine-level comfort for occupants.

The luxury experience is amplified by an 18-speaker Lexicon sound system with Dolby Atmos, transforming the interior into a private concert hall on wheels.

Jetour pushes the innovation even further with a suite of unusual features aimed at adventure-focused buyers.

Certain editions come with rear turboprop assistance capable of generating additional thrust for escaping deep mud, while an onboard refrigerator drawer can cool drinks to -6°C or keep meals warm at 50°C.

An integrated oxygen supply system also supports driving at high altitudes, reinforcing the SUV’s long-distance expedition credentials.

Industry observers say the G700 signals Jetour’s intention to aggressively challenge established luxury SUV brands by combining electrified performance, premium comfort and hardcore off-road ability in one package.

The G700 is available in Nigeria through accredited dealerships including Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era AutoVehicle Services Ltd, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre and Tab Autos Ltd, R.T. Briscoe and Mandilas Motors.

 

Meet Jetour G700: The 904HP Luxury beast shaking SUV world

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CFAO Mobility Targets Growth, Innovation at 2026 Open Day in Lagos

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CFAO Mobility Targets Growth, Innovation at 2026 Open Day in Lagos

…As Company Gives Out Brand-New BYD Seagull to Lucky Guest

 

The Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Nigeria, Mr Denis Martin, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to growth, innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction amid evolving market conditions.

He made this known during the 2026 CFAO Mobility Open Day held at Harbour Point Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Open Day, which was attended by auto enthusiasts and industry stakeholders, featured the various brands distributed by CFAO Mobility in Nigeria, comprising Toyota, BYD, Mitsubishi Motors, Suzuki, Yamaha, Fuso, JCB, Howo, King Long, Toyota Material Handling, TechKing Tyres, Winpart, and Auto Fast.

CFAO Mobility also used the event to give away a brand-new BYD Seagull during its VIP evening cocktail for key customers.

Speaking at the event, Martin noted that the Open Day, now in its second edition, reflects the company’s steady progress and continuous improvement.

“We held the first edition a year ago, and now we’re hosting the second. It’s clear we’ve made significant improvements, which is very encouraging,” he said.

He acknowledged the volatility in the global economic and mobility landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptability.

According to him, CFAO Mobility’s diverse portfolio of 14 brands positions the company to respond effectively to shifting market trends, regulatory changes, and evolving customer preferences in Nigeria.

Despite ongoing challenges, he expressed optimism about the sector’s prospects. “There is a lot of volatility, but there are also opportunities to grow and innovate,” he stated.

Highlighting why customers should choose CFAO Mobility, Martin stressed the company’s strong customer-centric philosophy, explaining that every decision and service offering is designed to deliver value, with particular emphasis on after-sales support.

“It’s not only about selling a car. What is important is keeping it running throughout its lifespan,” he said.

The managing director also pointed out that the company’s extensive portfolio is known for reliability and high performance.

Backed by a presence in 38 African countries and ownership by Toyota Tsusho Corporation, CFAO Mobility boasts one of the continent’s largest distribution networks.

Looking ahead, Martin disclosed plans to introduce new models across its brand lineup.

Beyond expansion, he emphasized the importance of sustainability, highlighting efforts to introduce fuel-efficient engine technologies and reduce carbon emissions. He noted that Japanese brands continue to lead in low-consumption engines.

He added that CFAO Mobility is investing in solar energy solutions across its facilities and has expanded into cleaner alternatives such as electric vehicles and compressed natural gas (CNG) options for trucks and buses.

Mr. Martin also underscored the importance of an enabling environment, including considerations around duty to support the adoption of hybrid vehicles, noting that hybrids remain among the most effective technologies for reducing carbon emissions globally.

He concluded by reiterating CFAO Mobility’s mission to deliver safer and greener mobility solutions while maintaining sustainable growth in Nigeria’s dynamic automotive sector.

With over 120 years of presence in Nigeria, CFAO remains a key player across the mobility and healthcare sectors.

Managing Director, Toyota by CFAO, Mr. Boye Ajayi (right), in a discussion with a participant at the 2026 CFAO Mobility Open Day held in Lagos Thursday, April 30, 2026.

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