Nord subsidiary, Tavet, rolls out EV utility van, sedan, luxury car

In a bold step toward clean mobility, Nigerian automaker Nord Automobiles Limited has launched Tavet Motion, a new electric vehicle (EV) subsidiary, alongside the unveiling of three locally assembled models—Luto, Garent, and Vant—at a high-profile ceremony in Lagos.

Held Thursday evening at the Oriental Hotel on Victoria Island, the launch attracted top government officials, military chiefs and industry leaders, in what experts described as a watershed moment for Nigeria’s automotive industry and a decisive push toward sustainable transportation.

Nord’s Chief Executive Officer, Oluwatobi Ajayi, described Tavet as “the future of mobility,” saying the company was determined to make Africa an active participant—not a spectator—in the global EV revolution.

“Welcome to the future of mobility,” Ajayi declared. “Tavet is about innovation, sustainability, and progress. Nord gave birth to Tavet—and together, we’ll ensure Africa isn’t left behind in the electric revolution.”

The three models—Luto, a compact urban sedan; Garent, a luxury EV; and Vant, a logistics van—are all assembled in Nigeria and designed for African roads.

Ajayi said Tavet’s vision went beyond vehicle sales. “We’re not just selling cars,” he said. “We’re building an entire EV ecosystem—from charging stations to battery health programmes and renewable energy integration.”

Vant

According to the MD, the Vant model, with a range of 305 kilometres per charge, is positioned as a game-changer for logistics operators seeking a cheaper, cleaner alternative to diesel-powered vans.

It comes with a payload of up to 1440 kilograms, and a massive cargo volume of 2.8m length. It attains a 20% to 80% charging in just 45 minutes.

Luto

The Luto a smart, pragmatic EV that can deliver up to 200 kilometres per charge, comes with driver/passenger air bags, reversing camera, ABS, Hill Start Assist among others.

Its size makes gives it the advantage of being able to be parked even in tight corners and is perfect for city life.

Garent
The Garent, being the flagship of the lineup, is a luxury sedan with advanced systems such as Adoptive Cruise Control, Lane-keeping Assist, Automatic emergency braking and optional scissor doors among others.

With a coupe-inspired lift back design, the Garent delivers up to 1200 kilometres per charge and 15.6 inch centre display and a 8.8 inch instrument cluster etc.

With entry-level prices starting around ₦16 million and premium variants up to ₦32 million, Tavet aims to make electric mobility accessible to both individuals and businesses.

Industry watchers say the launch could redefine Nigeria’s auto sector, long hampered by fuel price instability and dependence on imports.

By assembling locally and exploring Nigeria’s emerging lithium reserves, Tavet is expected to create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, research, and renewable energy support services.

Ajayi also hinted at partnerships with renewable energy firms to deploy solar-powered fast chargers nationwide, aligning with Nigeria’s clean energy transition goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

“Tavet is proof that technology, when localized, can transform lives,” Ajayi said. “Nord is proudly Nigerian—and Tavet will redefine what it means to build world-class vehicles in Africa.”

Analysts project Tavet could capture up to 15 per cent of Nigeria’s emerging EV market within two years, positioning the country as West Africa’s leading hub for electric mobility.

Auto industry biggest night returns as NAJA holds 2025 Int’l Awards Dec 16 in Lagos

The Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) has announced that the 2025 edition of its International Auto Awards—Nigeria’s most prestigious celebration of excellence and innovation in the motoring industry—will take place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, starting at 6:00 pm.

This annual event brings together top government officials, industry leaders, and media professionals to honour outstanding achievements that have shaped Nigeria’s automotive landscape.

According to Frank Kintum, Chairman of the Planning Committee, preparations are in top gear to ensure the 2025 edition sustains NAJA’s reputation as the most credible and unifying platform for recognizing excellence in the nation’s auto industry.

“The NAJA Awards have become the gold standard for honouring brands, organizations, and individuals who demonstrate innovation, integrity, and excellence in advancing Nigeria’s automotive ecosystem.

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“This year’s edition will spotlight progress in local manufacturing, green mobility, and industry policy development amongothers,” Kintum said.

Also speaking, Theodore Opara, Chairman of NAJA, highlighted the strategic importance of the awards to national development.

“As the automotive sector evolves, NAJA remains committed to supporting initiatives that align with the Federal Government’s vision for sustainable industrial growth.

“We are particularly delighted to have the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) as a central partner this year, given its pivotal role in policy formulation and innovation,” Opara stated.

Distinguished guests expected at the event include the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh; Director-General of NADDC, Chief Joseph Osanipin; Chairmen of the National Assembly Committees on Industry; the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria; and the Director of the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM), among other top government officials and industry leaders.

Through strategic collaboration with partners and stakeholders, NAJA continues to champion excellence, transparency, and growth in Nigeria’s automotive sector.

Auto industry biggest night returns as NAJA holds 2025 Int’l Awards Dec 16 in Lagos

Suzuki by CFAO Launches Fuel-Efficient Dzire, Celebrates Adventure with Jimny Tour at Lagos Grand Open Day

Suzuki by CFAO Mobility hosted a vibrant three-day celebration in Lagos last weekend to reaffirm its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer engagement.

The event kicked off on Thursday, October 30, 2025, with a Grand Open Day at the Suzuki showroom in Victoria Island, giving guests the chance to explore the brand’s model lineup through test drives, financing consultations, and interactive sessions.

Friday featured the official launch of the all-new Suzuki Dzire sedan, a compact, fuel-efficient car designed to combine style, performance, and affordability.

The highlight of the day was also the flag-off of the Suzuki Jimny Tour Drive, which took participants across major Lagos routes to experience the iconic off-roader’s versatility on Nigerian terrains.

According to Mrs. Aissatou Diouf, General Manager of Suzuki by CFAO Mobility, the new Dzire embodies the brand’s philosophy of blending design and efficiency for the modern Nigerian driver.

“The new Dzire reflects Suzuki’s vision of creating cars that combine elegance, performance, and fuel economy while meeting the realities of Nigerian roads,” she said.

The Jimny Tour Drive showcased the rugged capability and reliability of the Suzuki Jimny, with participants navigating both city roads and challenging tracks across Lagos.

“The Jimny represents freedom and adventure,” said Hakeem Sanusi, Marketing Manager of Suzuki by CFAO Mobility. “Through this tour, we are giving Nigerians a first-hand experience of a vehicle that blends fun with functionality.”

CFAO Mobility reaffirmed its long-term commitment to deepening access to affordable and durable vehicles in Nigeria. The company continues to invest in aftersales support, technical training, and mobility solutions that enhance safety and reliability for drivers nationwide.

Suzuki by CFAO Mobility is one of Nigeria’s leading automotive brands, offering a diverse range of vehicles known for their quality, durability, and fuel efficiency. Through customer-focused innovation and robust aftersales service, the company has continued to make modern mobility more accessible to Nigerian families and businesses.