Auto
Tesla moves for cheaper EVs over fierce competition from Chinese brands
Globally acclaimed electric vehicle leader Tesla has revealed some details about its next models and platform for producing cheaper products.
This is coming as the firm faces fierce competition from Volkswagen, Renault, MG and various other Chinese manufacturers that have confirmed plans to launch cheap and affordable EVs.
In a presentation termed Masterplan 3, Tesla CEO Elon Musk and other managers of the brand gave updates on a wide array of developments for the EV firm, ranging from advances in electric motor technology to new car construction processes that would speed up production.
Musk spoke in Texas before Tesla stakeholders, fans and car owners.
The automaker managers confirmed Tesla would cut assembly costs by half in future generations of cars, Reuters reports.
But Chief Executive Elon Musk did not unveil when it would debut a much-awaited affordable electric vehicle.
Tesla estimates that its new platform will reduce construction cost per vehicle by around $1000 (£830), which should translate into a tangibly lower price point for the consumer.
Autocar also reports that fundamentally, Tesla will look to minimise the amount of work needed at each stage of the process. For example, the seats will be mounted directly to the underfloor battery pack, with the entire unit then raised up into a bodyshell that has been painted in sections to avoid the need for door removal and reinstallation.
The new process is essentially centred on “only doing things that are necessary”.
READ ALSO:
- Poll: Islamic group thanks North for Tinubu’s victory
- Governor, 5 others shot dead in latest attack in Philippine
- APC dominates National Assembly with 57 senators, 162 reps members
Musk outlined his vision for a cleaner global economy in the post-ICE age, saying, “There is a clear path to a fully sustainable Earth, with abundance,” adding that this could be achieved without “austerity” and predicting that “an electrified economy will require less mining than the current economy”.
The all-out switch to electric road vehicles would cut fossil fuel usage by 21%, Tesla said.
Furthermore, Musk said, “All cars will go fully electric and autonomous. Driving a non-autonomous gasoline car is going to be an allegory for riding a horse and using a flip phone.”
According to Autocar, before now, details of the next Tesla car have been kept largely under wraps, with engineering boss Lars Moravy only confirming that “it would not be a Model Y” that benefits from the outlined production advances, as was depicted in an illustration that showed the innovations.
Tesla design boss Franz von Holzhausen said other details of the firm’s next car would come “at a later date”. It’s likely to be the first Tesla produced at a new factory in Monterrey, Mexico.
Moravy also said the Model 3 “landed us in production hell” with various delays and obstacles throughout the construction process hampering the crucial saloon’s roll-out.
But now new methods of vehicle production – first explored during development of the angular, unpainted Cybertruck – are touted as allowing a 40% reduction in factory footprint, cost savings of up to 50% and a drastic reduction in risk of delays at each stage of the production line.
Tesla’s chief financial officer, Zach Kirkhorn, and others underscored their dedication to cutting production costs.
Kirkhorn estimated Tesla must invest six times more than it has to date to hit its long-term target of increasing output to 20 million vehicles annually by 2030, a 10-fold increase from current capacity. The bill could be $175bn, he said.
![]()
Auto
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
4-Day Festival Kicks Off June 2, No Admission Fees
If you have ever wanted to get behind the wheel of a Land Cruiser, grill a Toyota engineer, or win prizes while learning how your engine actually works, tomorrow is your day.
Toyota Nigeria Limited will throw open the gates for its annual Toyota Motor Show on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. And for four days, Lekki becomes the city’s biggest car park, debate stage, and hangout spot rolled into one. The show runs through Saturday, June 6, with a break on Friday, 5th June, according to the organisers, TNL.
Forget the usual “stand-and-stare” motor shows. TNL says it is going full experience:
Day 1: Tuesday, June 2 – See It, Drive It, Hear It
Doors open for open vehicle viewing. But the headline is _PodCARst_ going live – Toyota’s new podcast recorded on-site. First guest? Celebrity guest Soma, in conversation with execs. Think cars, culture, and no script.
Day 2: Wednesday, June 3 – Youth Takeover
This is for students and young professionals. Expect debate competitions, quiz battles, and hands-on workshops. Kate Henshaw, screen legend, will be on ground to meet fans and judge the action.
READ ALSO:
- Oyo Boils as Teachers Strike, Protesters Demand Freedom for Abducted Pupils
- ‘No Evidence’: Atiku Camp Fires Back at Babachir Lawal Over ADC Rigging Claims
- Police Warn Nigerians Against Reprisal Over Fresh South Africa Xenophobic Attacks
Day 3: Thursday, June 4 – Influencer Tours
Social media star Mama Deola leads guided vehicle tours. She will walk the arena, break down why the Hilux still owns Nigerian roads, and why the Corolla and other Toyota models make sense for fuel prices today. Public access continues all day.
Grand Finale: Saturday, June 6 – The Bump Off
The event will close with another _PodCARst_ recording popular social media influencer, Ride With Mee, then turn up the energy for the “Toyota Bump Off” – a mini-rave hosted by media personality Dotun. DJ, outdoor games, prizes, and one last round of test drives.
All Week Long, All Visitors Get:
1. Free vehicle diagnostics – TNL technicians will scan your car, no charges.
2. Test drives – From Camry to RAV4 to Hilux. Book a slot, feel the ride.
3. Open exhibitions – Touch, sit, and compare Toyota’s latest models and mobility solutions.
Why it matters: This isn’t just a car show. It’s Toyota Nigeria doubling down on connection. No sales pitch banners. Just real conversations, real cars, and real value for owners and future owners. After two years of record crowds, this 3rd edition is bigger, louder, and more interactive.
Admission is free. Bring your questions, bring your car keys, and bring your appetite for prizes.
Venue: The Podium. I24 Tunde Kuboye Road. Lekki. Lagos
Dates: Tuesday June 2 – Saturday June 6, 2026. No Show on Friday June 5.
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
![]()
Auto
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria has unveiled the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4, bringing the latest generation of the globally acclaimed SUV to the Nigerian market in a move that signals a new era for local vehicle buyers.
For the first time, Nigerian customers will have access to the same-generation RAV4 available in leading international markets, eliminating the years-long delay that has traditionally separated local buyers from global launches.
The new SUV is backed by a three-year manufacturer’s warranty, Toyota-certified after-sales support and nationwide access to genuine spare parts, with customer deliveries already underway.
Speaking at the unveiling, Managing Director of Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria, Boye Ajayi, said the company was raising the benchmark for vehicle ownership in the country.
“The 2026 RAV4 is here. Nigerian customers are no longer waiting years behind global markets or settling for older specifications. They are receiving the same vehicle available internationally, at the same time, with full manufacturer support,” Ajayi said.
Available in three variants — Active (2.0L 2WD), Comfort (2.0L 4WD) and Limited (2.0L 4WD) — the SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre DOHC petrol engine producing 172 horsepower and features Sport, Normal and Eco driving modes.
Designed to balance comfort, performance and practicality, the RAV4 offers a 481-litre cargo space, 201mm ground clearance and a 55-litre fuel tank suited for both city commuting and long-distance travel.
Standard features across the range include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, dual-zone climate control, LED headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, SmartKey keyless entry, push-button start and a rear-view camera.
Toyota also equipped the SUV with an extensive safety package, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), hill-start assist and multiple airbags.
READ ALSO:
- Oyo Abduction: Sowore Issues Tinubu Ultimatum, Threatens to Occupy Aso Rock
- US Offers $3.5m to Monitor Religious Violence in Nigeria
- Oyo School Attack: Student Reveals How She Fled as Teacher Abandoned Pupils
While the entry-level Active variant targets urban motorists seeking reliability and efficiency, the Comfort model adds all-wheel-drive capability, heated front seats, roof rails and additional convenience features for customers who frequently travel outside city limits.
The flagship Limited variant comes with a larger 12.8-inch infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats and seat heating, offering a more luxurious driving experience.
Ajayi described the new RAV4 as more than a routine upgrade, noting that the improvements are both visible and practical.
“This is not a minor refresh. The upgrades are evident in the technology, interior refinement, driving experience and overall convenience offered to customers,” he said.
To strengthen ownership confidence, Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria said the vehicle is supported by a robust after-sales ecosystem comprising trained technicians, genuine parts inventory and service centres in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. The company plans to expand its authorised service network to 75 locations nationwide by March 2027.
The launch has already generated strong market interest, with several customers placing confirmed orders ahead of the official unveiling.
According to Ajayi, the early demand reflects a growing shift among Nigerian buyers towards brand-new vehicles backed by manufacturer warranties and structured after-sales support, rather than used imports with uncertain histories.
Managing Director of CFAO Mobility, Denis Martin, said Nigeria’s inclusion in the global launch schedule demonstrates the progress made by Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria in building world-class sales and service infrastructure.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is now available at Toyota-by-CFAO showrooms in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, with financing options offered through partner institutions. A public launch event featuring test drives and on-site vehicle orders is scheduled for June 11 at the company’s Victoria Island showroom in Lagos.
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
![]()
Auto
Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours
Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours
Carloha Nigeria, the authorised dealer of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, is strengthening its position in the country’s automotive industry after clinching two prestigious global awards as it unveils plans to introduce another electric vehicle (EV) into the market.
iCAUR (iCAR) is a global youth-oriented electric vehicle brand under the Chery Group, which was developed in partnership with SmartMi Tech. The brand is focused on stylish designs and smart mobility and it is currently expanding across international markets.
Carloha Nigeria received the New Star Award and Brand Leap Contribution Award at the 2026 Chery Global Summit and Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in China. This is in recognition of its rapid market growth, brand development efforts and customer engagement initiatives.
The international recognition comes as Carloha intensifies its push into Nigeria’s growing EV space, buoyed by the positive reception of the iCAUR brand among motorists, technology enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.
Managing Director, Sola Adigun, said the awards validate the company’s commitment to delivering world-class automotive solutions, while the growing acceptance of iCAUR reflects increasing consumer interest in innovative and sustainable mobility options.
“The Nigerian automotive market is evolving, and consumers are becoming increasingly receptive to innovation, sustainability and smart mobility solutions.
“The success of iCAUR has encouraged us to continue investing in the future of electric mobility in Nigeria,” he said.
Adigun disclosed that plans for the launch of a new EV are at an advanced stage, describing the move as part of a broader strategy to expand consumer choice and support Nigeria’s transition to cleaner transportation.
He added, “Winning these awards on the global stage is a strong endorsement of the work our team has done in building the Chery brand in Nigeria.
“It also demonstrates that Nigerian automotive businesses can compete successfully with the best across the world.”
According to him, Nigerian customers are increasingly demanding vehicles that combine intelligent safety technologies, premium comfort, fuel efficiency and modern design, noting that these qualities were prominently showcased by Chery at the Beijing exhibition.
“Beyond selling vehicles, our goal is to provide mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of Nigerian families and businesses while aligning with global trends in sustainability, innovation and customer experience,” Adigun said.
At Auto China 2026, Chery also showcased its latest safety and intelligent mobility technologies, including the all-new TIGGO V and its AiMOGA robotics innovations, under its new global brand philosophy, “For Family.”
General Manager, Felix Mahan, said the awards underscore Carloha Nigeria’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, adding that the company’s CarlohaCare 6-6-7 package continues to offer customers industry-leading aftersales support through a six-year warranty, six years of free service and a seven-day repair promise.
“This recognition reflects growing international confidence in both the Nigerian market and our ability to deliver world-class customer experience. We remain committed to making vehicle ownership easier, more affordable and more rewarding for our customers,” Mahan said.
With fresh global recognition and an expanded EV strategy, Carloha is positioning itself as one of the key players driving the future of sustainable mobility in Nigeria.

![]()
-
metro11 hours ago[UPDATED] JUST IN: Gunmen Abduct Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons in Ibadan (VIDEO)
-
metro8 hours agoVIDEO: Suspected Bandit in Full Army Camouflage Arrested in Osogbo
-
metro2 days agoBandit Leader Seeks Exchange Deal for Release of Retired General Rabe Abubakar
-
metro17 hours agoFayose Links Wike to Oyo School Kidnapping Crisis, Faces Rebuttal from Aide
-
metro2 days agoPower Outage Hits Five States, Niger Republic as TCN Begins Transmission Line Repairs
-
Business17 hours agoPetrol Prices Fall Nationwide as Dangote Refinery Cuts Ex-Depot Rate
-
metro1 day agoFalse Bandit Attack Alert Triggers School Closures in Six Osun LGAs
-
News3 days agoNLC Rejects N100,000 Minimum Wage, Demands N1m Monthly
