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Future of Nigerian auto industry bright, says NADDC DG Osanipin after visiting Innoson assembly plant in Nnewi

Published

6 months ago

November 21, 2023

Future of Nigerian auto industry bright, says NADDC DG Osanipin after visiting Innoson assembly plant in Nnewi

Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, recently visited Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM), Nnewi, and was received by the Chairman of company, Innocent Chukwuma.

Innoson thus became the first automaker the new DG visited since his appointment in October. During the tour which took him to the various sections of the existing factory, as well as the site of a new plant under construction, Osanipin gave his impression and commented on other issues in the industry. Excerpts:

What are your thoughts having seen the Innoson factories in Nnewi?

I have visited the Innoson factory where sedans, SUVs, buses and other vehicles, are being manufactured here in Nnewi. I have also come here to see another massive factory that is under construction in another part of the town. As you can see, this new plant under construction occupies a land space of about 20, 000 square metres. That is one. Yet another one of the same size is being constructed next to it. I have come to inspect and see the huge investments, the huge capital being invested Innoson, and know how we can come in and partner with them to know how to move the sector forward. And this is because there is a lot of potential in the industry. From what I have seen today, I am impressed. And let me say that I am positively surprised, because I never thought we had this kind of investment here. I never knew we had this kind of expertise existing here at Innoson, and I never knew that a lot has been going on here in the industry. I have been hearing of Innoson and I have been seeing a lot of Innoson vehicles on the road, but now I think I have a better understanding of what IVM is all about.

Having visited and seen what is going on at Innoson, what should the nation expect from you in terms of impact?

The impact from this visit will be more partnership. Now that we know the capability of Innoson and know their capacity and growth plan, we are in a better position to look forward to more partnership. From what we have seen, by February or March, this new factory under construction would have been completed and commissioned. That means that long buses and trucks can be produced here. So, we are going to have at Innoson two separate factories that can produce different ranges of products. And again today, I saw a CNG-powered long bus that can go more than 1000 kilometres on a fully-filled up cylinder. These are eye-openers for us. These are things that we did not know before now that have been happening here at Innoson. So, we want to expose all these to Nigerians. We need to make these things known to everybody in Nigeria, and bring them to the knowledge of the government and make them known to the fleet operators. Let me tell you that we did a study on the cost of fuel per kilometre: While PMS (Premium Motor Spirit, also known as petrol or gasoline) is N135 to N137 per kilometre if you use a bus, it will cost between N37 to N39 if it is a CNG vehicle. This is a message we want to pass to the average fleet operators, and tell them: ‘Come and try this. Come and use these CNG buses manufactured by Innoson.’ So, we are going to talk to the fleet operators and see how we can bring them together. We are going to talk to every other stakeholder and see how all of us can work together to grow the industry.

How do you intend to help the auto plants in Nigeria like Innoson source foreign exchange?

We all know the Federal Government’s policy concerning foreign exchange today. It is about encouraging the export of more locally made products. It is part of the discussion I have been having with the Innoson chairman. We can produce more and export to earn foreign exchange. Again, it needs financing. I cannot come here now and promise this or that. But what I can say is that whatever we can do in terms of support, we will do it; even if it means talking to other financial institutions that finance green energy, we can bring them together.

With companies like Innoson partnering with NADDC, will you say the future of the automotive industry is getting brighter?

The future of the industry is bright. We have not done anything yet. There are a lot of opportunities in the industry. We only need people with courage and people that love the country. If Innoson doesn’t love his country and doesn’t’ have the courage, he won’t be making all these investments. If you don’t love your country, you won’t be doing all that. If we have people like Innoson, then we need to support as a country; support our own, and support made-in-Nigeria vehicles and made-in-Nigeria goods. For me, it is part of what I stand for. I stand for made-in-Nigeria vehicles, made in Nigeria goods. I asked what is the percentage of local content in the production of that bus we use in our airports, and I was told it is between 60 and 70 percent. Gradually, we hope to get up to 80 percent, and from there, we know we can achieve more. From what we have seen today at Innoson, the future of the automotive industry is very bright with the support of everyone, all of us. You don’t say you cannot support. In every little way that you can, try as much as possible to support. Talk more about made-in-Nigeria vehicles. By the time all of us support it, the industry will grow.

Innoson started manufacturing CNG-powered vehicles two years ago and is so far the only automaker doing so in Nigeria, but IVM is not among those partnering with the Federal Government to produce the buses to be rolled out following fuel subsidy removal. Is there anything NADDC can do about it?

Let me say one thing. We are not involved in the procurement process, but having said that, whatever assistance we can render by putting forward the manufacturers we have in our list, we will do it. We have the automotive manufacturers which Innoson is part of. So, we are going to push forward our members; that is, those companies that we licensed. We are going to talk to every agency and we are going to talk to the government. We are going to put their names and products forward too. Many people don’t know some of these things, like the CNG. So, we are going to take it out and let people see it, and from there, I am sure in the next round, we will be able to push for patronage for all our members, including IVM.

You took over as the DG at a time the auto industry is at a critical state. What would be your priority in the next few months?

First, what I need to do in the next few months is to put us forward. I mean to put us out there. Let Nigerians know our capability in the auto industry. A lot of things happening in the auto industry are not being told to the public. So first of all, we need to put our better face out there, so that people will know what we have there. Secondly, I know and I talk to some people and the question they ask is: ‘What about after-sale service?’ Innoson knows and I discussed it with him. I am happy that he is working along that line. We are going to encourage every member of the industry to pay more attention to after-sale support. Apart from that, we are going to encourage more local components. And I am happy Innoson is already doing that. What he is doing is what we want to extend to every other member of industry. Let’s improve more on local content.

Is giving legal backing to auto policy a priority? The Jonathan administration introduced it, but did not sign it into law. Buhari was in office for eight years, but didn’t sign it either. Will it be one of our priorities?

I don’t want to put it among what we are going to achieve in three, four, five months. Anything that involves law, you may not be able to put a timeline to it. However, we will continue to push. By next week (this week), we will be having a meeting with all the auto assemblers and manufacturers in Lagos. We are going to discuss the NAIDP (Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan). As I mentioned before, we want it to become law because it is when it has become law that it will encourage more people to invest in the sector.

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150 OEMs, others set for Lagos motor fair, Africa autoparts expo

Published

2 days ago

May 15, 2024

Trends Admin

150 OEMs, others set for Lagos motor fair, Africa autoparts expo

Arrangements have been concluded for the hosting of the 18th edition of the Lagos Motor Fair and 11th Africa Autoparts Expo in Lagos.

BKG Exhibitions Limited, organisers of the annual event, stated this, adding that it would be a bumper package as 50 Original Engine Manufacturers (OEMs) from different parts of the world had confirmed their participation at the fair.

Chairman of the organising committee for the show, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, said at a press briefing in Lagos that the event is scheduled to hold on June 4-7, 2024 at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island.

Agwu, who is also BKG managing director, declared, “Over 150 confirmed Original Equipment Manufacturers from all over the world are already preparing to be at the show.

“From the financial sector, auto financing and acquisition facilities and schemes shall be on display at the various stands of the firms from the sector.

“Those interested in enjoying the synergy existing between the automobile industry and the Insurance sector will get the best and latest from reputable Insurance Companies at the fair arena.

“Some of the automobile dealers will showcase their own in-house finance/ acquisition schemes.”

He said almost all the major vehicle manufacturers and dealers in Nigeria would be participating at the fair.

Notable banks and insurance companies, major oil companies; manufacturers and dealers in auto spare parts and accessories have booked to participate in the event, he added.

There will also a conference/workshop session featuring germaine industry issues and key stakeholders.

Agwu said, “The aim of this segment is to inform, educate and contribute to policy decisions and implementation in the sector.”

“The fair will be a landmark and a benchmark in auto show business in the entire West African subregion as the all-inclusive event has been packaged to ensure that all stakeholders have a rewarding experience.

“Each of the days that the fair will last is loaded with activities and events that will make this edition remarkably different and we intend to improve and add on this in subsequent editions,” he said.

Visitors can also update their knowledge about Fleet Management from experts in the field that would be on the ground at the fair.

He also said, “We have carefully put in place a lot of crowd-pulling activities all geared toward driving much traffic into the fair. “These include but are not limited to performances by popular artists, cultural and fashion displays, models/automobile parades and a roadshow.”

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Nigeria gets new Mercedes-Benz GLS, offering extraordinary driving pleasure

Published

3 days ago

May 14, 2024

Trends Admin

Nigeria gets new Mercedes-Benz GLS, offering extraordinary driving pleasure

Weststar Associates Limited has announced the introduction to Nigeria new Mercedes-Benz GLS Facelift, viewed as a symbol of grandeur and innovation.
Weststar, authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria, says the new model is coming with features specially crafted to elevate driving experience to new heights.
According to a statement by the firm, the Mercedes-Benz GLS Facelift represents a fusion of power and opulence, a symbol of luxury and innovation.
This update is said to propel the GLS to new heights, reaffirming its status as a commanding and sophisticated choice in the luxury SUV category in Nigeria.
It also comes with a bold exterior, advanced features and electrified powertrains.
Part of the statement read, “The GLS Facelift blends elegance with power, solidifying its place as the pinnacle of luxury SUVs.
“The updated GLS makes an unforgettable entrance with a revamped front fascia.
“At its core is an imposing, larger gloss grille featuring four horizontal bars, adding a sense of authority to its presence.
“Gloss black surrounds adorn the lower air vents. A striking new LED DRL pattern in the LED headlights gives the GLS a sharper and more aggressive aesthetic.”

Design
Giving more details about the design, the firm says the vehicle comes with new alloy wheel options, and the rear boasts distinctive LED taillights with a 3-pot LED pattern.
Even though it retains the hallmark design of the previous version, the new GLS Facelift introduces an array of features to enhance the cabin experience.
The highlight is the new 3-spoke steering wheel, equipped with capacitive steering-mounted controls, which promises heightened control for drivers.

Infotainment
Its infotainment system and instrument cluster are said to be powered by the latest MBUX operating software, providing additional display modes and an immersive technological experience.
Occupants of the new GLS Facelift are in for maximum luxury Luxury with a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos®, a 360-degree parking camera for effortless maneuvering, adaptive air suspension, adaptive LED lighting for superior visibility, and a powered tailgate for added convenience.
Weststar says the new GLS Facelift integrates a 48V mild hybrid system into all of its powertrains, enhancing performance and efficiency.
This innovative system provides an addition of up to 16kW of power and 250Nm of torque for short bursts. The standard GLS Facelift lineup offers an array of engine choices, including two petrol options.

Engine performance
The GLS 450 is powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine, generating 280 [381] kW [hp] and 500 Nm of torque, offering a balance of power and efficiency.
Stepping up, the GLS 580 features a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine with 380 [517] kW [hp] and 730 Nm of torque, providing rapid acceleration.
For enthusiasts with a penchant for sportier luxury, the GLS 63 AMG model is an embodiment of power and sophistication.
It features Nappa leather-upholstered seats in distinctive color schemes, offering a captivating environment.
The MBUX infotainment system incorporates AMG-specific menu layouts, adding a sporty edge to the interior.
The GLS 63 AMG model is packed with an electric panoramic sunroof, heated and vented front seats, adaptive headlights, AMG’s performance exhaust system, a premium sound system and the 360-degree parking pilot.
This comprehensive package caters to those who desire both power and luxury.

Interior
The Mercedes-Benz GLS still comes standard as a seven-seater. However, two new leather colours are available, Catalana beige and Bahia brown. Additionally, the range of interior trim finishes has been updated, with glossy brown lime wood now standard.
The trim element MANUFAKTUR glossy black flowing lines piano lacquer, which was previously only available for the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC, is now also available for the entire GLS family from Mercedes-Benz.All GLS engines come paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox and the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system as standard.
For those seeking an extra dimension of adventure, Mercedes-Benz offers an optional ‘off-road engineering package,’ which enhances the GLS’s capabilities with underbody protection panels and a 30mm increase in ride height.
The firm says new vehicle is available nationwide in its authorised Mercedes-Benz showrooms comprising Barbedos Cars Limited, M-B Automobile Services Limited, Skymit Motors Limited, Sunny Motors Limited, and Tetralog Nigeria Limited.

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Coscharis Motors hits W’Africa Auto Show starting today with special discount, fabulous gifts, others

Published

3 days ago

May 14, 2024

Trends Admin

Coscharis Motors hits W’Africa Auto Show starting today with special discount, fabulous gifts, others

Coscharis Motors Plc is participating hugely at the 2024 West Africa Automotive Show (WAAS) holding in Lagos from May 14 to 16, 2024.

The prominent automotive company and trusted representative of major international auto brands in Nigeria, announced in a statement that exciting time awaits visitors to its stand at the Landmark Event Centre, venue of the fair in Lagos.

It promised special discount, freebies, on-the-sport autocare, original parts and experts advice.

It stated, “As one of the premier dealerships in Nigeria when it comes to auto parts and auto components, Coscharis Motors Plc is poised to showcase an impressive array of automotive products from renowned Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), including Abro, MotorCraft and Omnicraft.

“From essential spare parts to top-quality lubricants, the exhibited products cater to the diverse needs of automobile enthusiasts and professionals, facilitating seamless repairs and maintenance for all makes and models of vehicles.

Abiona Babarinde, General Manager Marketing and Corporate Communications at Coscharis Group said, “We are really delighted to participate in the West Africa Automotive Show 2024 and showcase our commitment to delivering excellence in the automotive sector.

“Through our participation, we aim not to only showcase our robust product portfolio but also to connect with customers and prospects alike fostering lasting relationships built on trust and reliability in delivering value for their money over the years.

“The beauty of our participation at this year’s event is that you stand to get the original parts across various brands of any vehicle together with our certified technicians on ground to give you first hand professional after-sale guide on how best to fix the Parts; thereby delivering a one – stop shop at our stand.”

Head, Auto Care/Consumer Products Division, Coscharis Motors Plc, Dr. Obuzor Uzordinma, was also quoted as saying, “All is now set for us as a team to delight anyone that visits our stand at the exhibition.

“Our combined strong team from the Auto Care, Auto Component and After-sale teams are ready to deliver value for money at this event.

“We are poised to deliver on-the-spot offerings when it comes to original parts for all brands of vehicles as the official representative in Nigeria of various Original Equipment Manufacturers.

“To complement the parts on display will be our Home Care Consumer Goods from the iconic Abro brand portfolio on display as the exclusive representative in Nigeria.

“I hereby encourage all automobile customers, enthusiasts and families to take advantage of this opportunity to experience automotive innovation at its finest as they visit Coscharis Motors Plc at this year’s West Africa Automotive Show and unlock a world of possibilities in automotive excellence.”

The firm promised visitors to the Coscharis Motors stand an unparalleled experience, with irresistible discounts and enticing freebies.

“This exclusive opportunity allows customers to access original automotive products at unbeatable prices, enhancing both their driving experience and vehicle longevity.

“Moreover, the West Africa Automotive Show serves as a platform for attendees to engage directly with Coscharis Motors representatives, who will be on hand to address enquiries and provide insights into the comprehensive range of products and services offered by the organisa

tion,” it stated.