Jetour shakes Compact SUV segment with loaded X50

Jetour Nigeria says its aim at introducing the current X50 model is to disrupt the compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment in the nation’s automobile market. And that it s currently doing.

The Jetour X50 stands out as a feature-rich compact SUV, designed to deliver a high level of safety, technology and comfort for everyday driving.

Built with a strong focus on occupant protection, the vehicle is equipped with multiple airbags for the driver and passengers, ensuring all-round safety while on the road.

Supporting these passive safety features are advanced electronic systems that enhance stability and control. Vehicle Stability Control helps the SUV remain balanced in challenging conditions, while the Electronic Parking Brake and Auto Hold system improve ease of use in traffic and during parking.

Driver confidence is further boosted by the availability of a 360-degree surrounding camera and parking sensors, which provide improved visibility in tight spaces.

To address common on-road safety concerns, the X50 incorporates a range of intelligent driver-assistance features. Blind Spot Detection reduces the risk of unseen vehicles, while Lane Change Assist and Rear Traffic Alert offer added protection during lane changes and reversing.

Additional security features such as automatic door locking, an alarm system and power windows contribute to peace of mind.

Inside the cabin, comfort and convenience take centre stage. Smart entry with a push-start button simplifies vehicle access, while selectable drive modes—Eco, Normal and Sport—allow drivers to adapt performance to different driving conditions.

Cruise control adds extra comfort on longer journeys.The infotainment system features a 10.5-inch display with Bluetooth connectivity, voice command, phone mirroring, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity on the move.

A wireless charger keeps devices powered without cables. Premium interior appointments include leather seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, automatic air conditioning with rear vents, an electric sunroof option and a six-speaker audio system.

Power comes from a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a dual-clutch transmission, offering a balance of responsive performance and fuel efficiency.

With its aerodynamic design and practical five-seat layout, the Jetour X50 combines modern features with everyday usability, backed by reliable after-sales support and technical assistance.

Its accredited dealers spread across Nigeria are Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era AutoVehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Tab Autos Limited, R. T. Briscoe Motors and Mandilas Autos.

BBA Motors unveils Zeekr 9X in Lagos, delivers first unit to D’banj

Nigeria’s luxury automobile market witnessed a major shift on Friday as BBA Motors ushered in a new era of electric mobility with the unveiling of the Zeekr 9X in Lagos — the first time the premium electric SUV is appearing anywhere in Africa.

The high-profile launch, held at the company’s newly opened intelligent flagship showroom, signalled the arrival of a new generation of high-end electric vehicles in Nigeria’s fast-evolving automobile landscape.

Adding glamour to the event, the first Zeekr 9X delivered in Nigeria was handed over to Nigerian music icon D’banj, symbolising the formal entry of the luxury electric SUV into the country’s growing premium mobility segment.

The unveiling attracted a diverse audience of business leaders, financial and leasing executives, ride-hailing partners and notable guests, including development economist Oyebanji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka.

BBA Motors said the launch not only introduces cutting-edge electric mobility to Nigeria but also positions the country as a strategic gateway for advanced new-energy vehicles in West Africa while strengthening automotive trade ties between Africa and Asia.

Speaking at the event, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BBA Motors, Rebecca Jia, described the showroom opening and Zeekr 9X debut as a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy in Nigeria.

“In the Nigerian market, our core mission is to bring world-class Chinese automotive products and thoughtful localized services to local users,” Jia said.

“The debut and first delivery of the Zeekr 9X is a key move for us to enter the high-end new-energy vehicle segment and expand our product offerings.”

She added that the company plans to offer Nigerians a wide range of mobility solutions — from everyday commuter vehicles to luxury models — while supporting fleet procurement, leasing and maintenance services for corporate organisations and ride-hailing platforms.

The Zeekr marque is a premium electric vehicle brand under Geely Holding Group and has gained global recognition for its advanced battery technology and intelligent driving systems.

At the Lagos unveiling, product specialists said the Zeekr 9X had been specially optimised for African conditions, including Nigeria’s rugged road terrain and high-temperature climate.

The all-electric SUV features a high-capacity ternary lithium battery capable of delivering up to 560 kilometres of pure electric driving range and a combined range of about 1,250 kilometres. With ultra-fast charging technology, the battery can charge from 30 to 80 per cent in about 28 minutes.

Engineers also equipped the vehicle with a dual-motor intelligent all-wheel-drive system producing 310 kW of power and 680 Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from zero to 100 kilometres per hour in just over four seconds.

To handle Nigeria’s varied road conditions, the SUV comes with reinforced chassis architecture and a ground clearance of 185 millimetres, allowing it to navigate both urban roads and rougher terrain.

Inside, the Zeekr 9X offers a luxury cabin fitted with Nappa leather aviation-grade seats, panoramic digital displays, and a multi-screen intelligent cockpit powered by an AI-driven voice interaction system.

The vehicle also features advanced driver assistance technology, including adaptive cruise control, lane centring, automatic parking assist, blind-spot monitoring and 360-degree panoramic imaging.

At the highlight of the ceremony, Jia handed the keys of the first Zeekr 9X delivered in Nigeria to D’banj, who said the vehicle’s technology and the company’s localized support services influenced his decision.

Industry observers say the launch could signal the early expansion of premium electric vehicles in Nigeria, where interest in sustainable mobility solutions is gradually rising alongside the growth of the country’s high-end automotive segment.

BBA Motors, which focuses on the import and distribution of China-manufactured vehicles, said it plans to expand its service network nationwide while introducing more electric and hybrid models tailored to African markets.

The company added that the Lagos showroom will serve as a hub for sales, after-sales service, fleet solutions and ride-hailing partnerships as it seeks to position itself as a leading gateway for new-energy vehicles in Nigeria.

Ex-CIG Motors GM Jubril of Lagos floats Hybrid Motors Nigeria

A former General Manager of CIG Motors, Jubril Arogundade, popularly known as “Jubril of Lagos,” has unveiled a new automotive venture, Hybrid Motors Nigeria, with a bold ambition to reshape access to hybrid, compressed natural gas (CNG), and electric vehicles across the country.

Arogundade announced the launch on his birthday, Saturday, February 28, describing the company as a response to Nigeria’s growing appetite for cleaner and more flexible mobility options. He said Hybrid Motors Nigeria aims to build “a unicorn brand in the automobile industry” within five years by bridging gaps in vehicle availability, service capacity, and supporting infrastructure.

According to him, the company’s strategy will rest on seven core pillars: local assembly of hybrid and electric vehicles; nationwide distribution of petrol, hybrid and EV models; establishment of aftersales service and training centres; spare parts supply and distribution; deployment of EV charging systems and stations with what he described as “energy intelligence”; auto asset financing; and vehicle leasing services.

He disclosed that the company’s physical rollout would be phased, with an official showroom scheduled to open in June, while plans are underway to commence factory operations next year. Although he alluded to strategic partnerships that would accelerate market entry and industry transformation, he did not name the partners.

The launch comes at a time when hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles are attracting increasing interest in Nigeria, driven by rising fuel costs, demand for lower operating expenses, and a broader shift towards cleaner transportation. Fleet operators and private motorists alike are exploring options that offer fuel flexibility and more predictable maintenance.

Hybrid Motors Nigeria said its model goes beyond vehicle sales, combining product supply with service readiness through technical training, parts availability, and charging infrastructure to prevent post-purchase support gaps that often slow adoption.

Further details on the company’s initial vehicle lineup, partnership framework, and rollout timeline are expected ahead of the showroom inauguration.

Arogundade’s announcement follows his recent exit from CIG Motors.

While the company’s Chairman, Diana Chen, had announced the termination of his appointment after an investigation reportedly indicated alleged financial misappropriation and abuse of office, Arogundade has maintained that he voluntarily resigned on December 2, 2025, in line with his contractual and internal corporate obligations.