“While you have government investing with policy, some of the infrastructure and intellectual property,” he said.
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Updated: Honda sets Nigeria’s sub-compact SUV market aglow with 2023 HR-V versatility
Updated: Honda sets Nigeria’s sub-compact SUV market aglow with 2023 HR-V versatility
Honda Automobile Western Africa Ltd has created some excitement in the Nigeria’s auto market, particularly the sub-compact SUV segment, with the introduction of the latest (third) generation HR-V.
The expectations are high that the segment is in for a stiff competition and the automaker has dubbed the latest entry as ‘The Standard’, expecting other players to copy the unique features in the 2023 High-rider Revolutionary Vehicle
Some units of the all-new Honda HR-V were made available to the motoring journalists in Lagos on Wednesday for a test drive and it was indeed a pleasant experience.
The coupe-inspired design, assembled at the Honda plant in Ota, Ogun State, is a beauty to behold with its stylish and sporty look.
Its new distinctive features personally experienced during the test drive including Electric Parking Brake and Brake Hold make driving the 2023 HR-V a fun especially. The Brake Hold is particularly found useful and engaged when driving through ‘stop and go’ traffic. Little wonder the vehicle is described as a combination of beauty and utility.
Before the test drive, Remi Adams, manager in charge of Sales Marketing and Logistics at Honda Automobile West Africa, while presenting detailed features of the new vehicle, said the latest HR-V is expected to follow the trail of success blazed by its predecessor.
According to him, the new-generation HR-V comes as a smart versatile SUV that represents another step in the Honda’s commitment to a greener world with less emission.
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This explains while it comes with a 1.5-litre engine technology delivering a blend of efficiency and responsive performance.
He said it was built with the concept of meeting the exact needs of modern consumers – to achieve a rare balance of premium SUV styling and exceptional spaciousness, with compact dimensions and easy entry and exit for passengers.
Exterior
According to Adams, the car’s design has a unisex appeal, for both male and female.
The front side is bold, stylish and aesthetically appealing, thus giving owners/users a lot of confidence.
The clean simplicity of design is realised through the car’s smooth surfaces, with exterior design features incorporated into the body shape.
Its headlights, unique body-coloured grille and distinctive lower mesh grille seamlessly are found to integrate with the forward-protruding nose shape and front quarter panels, giving it a more sculpted appearance and creating a sleek, bold expression.
The body sides present a contemporary, noiseless aesthetic, with a crisp horizontal shoulder line running from the rear as far as the front headlights, generating a sense of forward momentum.
The protruding front section and pulled back A-pillar combine to create a premium long bonnet, visually moving the cabin volume rearwards and further accentuating the sleek coupe-like proportions.
The combination of utility and aesthetics is evident in the simple, elegant tailgate design, which neatly integrates the tailgate door handle within the three-dimensional rear panel.
Aerodynamic improvements are achieved without the need for unnecessary design features that often compromise styling.
Interior
The interior has been designed with a focus on space and light to elevate the sense of airiness in the cabin.
The automaker says the car comes with levels of comfort and practicality unrivalled in the sub-compact SUV segment.
For instance, contemporary fabrics and textured materials have been used to create a solid, premium feel, with the quality of soft-touch materials.
The automaker says the airy feeling is amplified by a unique ‘Air Diffusion System’ where L-shaped vents are positioned in the top corners of the dashboard.
It particularly notes the new driving position, which is 10mm higher than the previous model, adding that the windows are designed to admit as much light as possible, aided by the horizontally orientated, noiseless instrumental panel to the flat line of the bonnet.
The mirror attachment has moved lower down the door, improving visibility around the three-quarter area when turning, thereby preventing blind spot situations.
Seats
Honda’s next-generation body stabilising front seats feature mat-structure support, replacing the previous spring set-up, which helps prevent fatigue on long journeys and increases comfort in everyday use.
The interior controls are positioned close to the driver’s field of vision for additional comfort while driving.
It also comes with exceptionally versatile rear Magic Seat set-up that offers fold-flat or flip-up seat flexibility.
Easy loading access has not been compromised by the coupe-inspired roofline. The clever packaging and Magic Seats, a lower tailgate edge, tailgate aperture, low, flat cargo floor all work in unison to provide this.
The new HR-V offers greater leg room and shoulder space, for an enhanced feeling of spaciousness and comfort. In addition to the 35mm increase in rear leg room, there is a two-degree recline compared to the previous generation HR-V.
Engine
The vehicle comes with a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine with a CVT transmission that helps to drive with peak power output of 119hp/6600rpm and a torque of 145Nm/4300rpm.
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Best in-class fuel economy is guaranteed with the vehicle’s Econ button that allows the owner to have a fuel usage of as little as 18.4Km/L, depending on driving condition and terrain.
Connectivity
The new HR-V provides seamless in-car connectivity allowing owners to connect to their everyday lives with ease.
It says the intuitive 8” LCD touchscreen interface is designed to minimise driver distraction, with a simplified and fully customisable menu layer enabling easy access to convenience features and controls.
Also, the HMI operation time is greatly improved compared to previous model, making it quick and easy to switch between apps and providing fast response to inputs and commands.
The interface, which is navigated using familiar smartphone-style controls, also enables smartphone mirroring via Apple CarPlay (through Bluetooth, WiFi or cable) and Android Auto (cable). Over-the-air software updates allows upgrades to the latest features and apps.
Safety
Its innovative safety features include the On/Off headlights that automatically come on when the car gets into a dark environment; go off when it is bright; changes the low beam headlights to high beam headlights when necessary.
It also has a Hill Descent Control, available for the first time in some markets on the HR-V. This operates from a minimum speed of just 3km/h.
“This technology enables greater and smoother control on low-grip surfaces and steep descents to increase driving confidence in a wider range of conditions,” says Honda.
After-sales support/warranty
The new generation HR-V is supported by a five-year/100,000 warranty. This is addition to five-year free service including labour and parts within the period of the warranty.
The automaker says the same warranty and after-sale support will be offered for other Honda vehicles from HAWA and THP Limited (The Honda Place).
Adams also disclosed that a survey recently conducted among the HR-V customers gave competitive price, fuel economy and status enhancement as top reasons for their sticking to the vehicle.
Updated: Honda sets Nigeria’s sub-compact SUV market aglow with 2023 HR-V versatility
Auto
CNG conversion centres now 170, FG targets 200 Dec 31
CNG conversion centres now 170, FG targets 200 Dec 31
The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) on Wednesday announced that the CNG conversion centres in the country are now 170.
It was upbeat that the 170 CNG conversion centres in Nigeria would increase to 200 at the end of December 2024.
The centres hit 170 with the commissioning of Portland Gas Conversion centres in Kado, Abuja.
Speaking with reporters, the PCNGI Chief Executive, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, said the P-CNGI which has doubled its target for 2024, is hopeful of hitting 500 conversion centres next year.
His words: “Before the end of this year, I promise in the next two weeks, we will get to 200. We are already looking for and certifying at least an additional 35 to 40 on our record.
“I believe we will get to 40 at the end of this year. And that is double our target. You remember this time last year, I told you our target was 100 and now 200.
“Next year, we have set a target of 500 for us and I believe we will blow.”
He recalled that from the seven conversion centres of 2023, there are now 170 centres in Nigeria.
According to him, all the conversion centres are owned by private-sector investors.
“We went from seven conventional centres, that with these now, I easily would say we are around 170.
“So today, from seven to 170, there is not a single one of those that were built by the Federal Government of Nigeria,” he said.
He urged Portland Gas Limited to increase its working hours from 24 to the present 24 hours.
Meanwhile, the Portland Gas Limited, Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Folajimi Mohammed said the workshop which opens 12 hours daily, can convert a car within one hour.
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He said it is a full state-of-the-art centre, comprising the mechanical, electrical, calibration, and of course which cannot be done without gas.
He said: “So what we do here is a Turkey solution, where from the conversion part of it, you can make sure that when you leave here within an hour, thereabouts, you are able to make sure that you have a fully converted CNG car.
“And when I mean fully converted CNG car, I mean, it is still a hybrid. You can have the option to switch from petrol to gas where you want to.”
According to him, the tanks that are presently installed in the vehicles are durable for 20 years.
He said since the infrastructure is limited in the country, it is advisable to convert the vehicles in a manner they can use other fuels in addition to CNG.
Mohammed said, “We know the gas infrastructure is just about to improve. “Well, for now, what we have, the limited availability of the infrastructure, by making sure that you don’t do 100% conversion. I can always switch to petrol in the event of any emergencies.”
He said being methane, the gas is very safe as it is lighter than air.
Besides, Oluwagbemi said a free interstate transportation will be provided in the Federal Capital Territory between during the Yuletide.
According to him, six buses will be added to the fleet.
He said, “You know in Abuja today we have 16 buses running Gwagwalada to Keffi and Nyanya as well as in Nigeria that project is already ongoing and it will be expanded to interstate this week.
“We are going to put additional six buses to run interstate here in Abuja and neighbouring cities. We are just providing free transportation programme during the yuletide period.”
Speaking, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) Executive Vice Chairman, Khalil Suleiman Halilu recalled that the CNG journey started a long time ago.
He added that the CNG of Portland is a first of its kind in terms of partnership and private sector.
He said in the partnership, the government provides the policy, infrastructure, and intellectual property.
Auto
Coscharis, Toyota, Globe, Weststar, CFAO, others that win big at NAJA Auto Awards
Coscharis, Toyota, Globe, Weststar, CFAO, others that win big at NAJA Auto Awards
Globe Motors, Coscharis Motors, Toyota Nigeria, CFAO, Weststar Associates and Lanre Shittu (LSM) are among big winners at the 2024 NAJA (Nigerian Automotive Journalists Association) Auto Awards.
The prestigious event, which held on Wednesday December 11 at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos recognized various categories within the industry, ranging from vehicle innovation to service excellence.
As earlier announced Mikano Motors’ Changan CS55 beat Toyota Corolla and Kia Rio to win the coveted 2024 car-of-the-year prize.
Globe Motors emerged as the Most Resilient Company of the Year, while Coscharis Motors bagged the Multi-Luxury Brand of the Year along with the luxury SUV of the year with Range Rover Autobiography. Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL) and MD/CEO of Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM) were honoured as Auto Company of the Decade and Auto Personality of the Year respectively.
Also, CFAO won the Outstanding After-Sale Service, Product Launches of the Year with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Suzuki Vitara, and the Most Enterprising Auto Company, while Chief Chidi Anyaegbu MFR (Founder, Chisco Motors) was recognized as the Transport icon of the Year; Mrs. Karima Okunola of Mikano Motors bagged the Auto Marketing Manager of the Year.
The companies were lauded for their commitment to providing quality vehicles and top-notch aftersales services, which have contributed to their solid reputation in the Nigerian auto market over the years.
Other notable winners included Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, which was celebrated for its pioneering role in local vehicle production; Nord took home CNG-powered mini bus brand, and A9 launch recognition.
Weststar’s Mercedes-Benz was declared luxury brand of the year and the S-Class won luxury car of the year.
Carloha with its handling of Chery was adjudged the most innovative company of the year, just as the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro launch received a recognition.
While Dangote Sinotruk won the heavy duty truck manufacturer of the year, Lanre Shittu’s JAC was again awarded the heavy duty truck of the year. Taiwo Shittu, MD of the LSM emerged Auto Personality of the Year. His later father and founder of the company received a posthumous award.
RT Briscoe bagged the workshop of the year award; Dana Motors’ Kia Sonet won the best compact SUV prize, and the mini bus assembler of the year went to Jet System.
In his speech, Chairman of NAJA, Mike Ochonma, said, “This year’s NAJA Auto Awards highlights not just the achievements of the big names in the industry, but also the rising stars who are shaping the future of Nigeria’s automotive landscape.”
Auto
Nigeria’s auto industry in limbo over policy delay – LCCI sectoral head
Nigeria’s auto industry in limbo over policy delay – LCCI sectoral head
Nigeria’s automotive industry is in limbo due to prolonged delay in enacting the required law to give investors the right direction.
Head of the Auto Sectoral Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Kunle Jaiyesinmi, stated this, noting that the industry was being allowed to stagnate, making it difficult to galvanise the overall development of the Nigerian economy
Jaiyesinmi who is Deputy Managing Director of CFAO Motors, spoke in Lagos on the sidelines of the 2024 Nigeria Auto Industry Awards organised by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA).
He said, “For now, we are in limbo. We don’t know what is happening to the (auto industry) policy; whether it’s with the Executive or it has gone to the National Assembly. We don’t have information on the stage that the policy is. I think NADDC is coming up with a stakeholders’ meeting maybe they would give us a very detailed information on the policy.”
In his assessment of the performance of the business this year, he lamented that the macroeconomic challenges including the high exchange rates and inflation were adversely affecting vehicle salesmmm
He said, “2024 has provided a topsy-turvy ride looking at the state of the economy. The purchasing power has been so much eroded (due to) the depreciation of the naira (the exchange rate).
“Prices have risen to a level that most private consumers cannot really afford it (new car). You notice that the major corporates are really suffering. You can imagine how much they lost in terms of exchange rate.
“So that has really impacted the procurement of new vehicles… We have more of automobile maintenance service rather than new sales.
“If you look at the market figure, it has so much reduced compared to what we had been having when the exchange rate was around N450, N480. So it’s not been a very good year for automobile business.
Jaiyesinmi also spoke on the high interest, which is over 33%; as well the recently announced government-back N20 billion auto finance.
He said, “Automobile loan is a no-go area for consumers. It’s a bit tough now. Reliance is on government now and it’s not everybody that can do government business.
“We are just looking at 2025 to be a better year going by the appreciation of the naira in recent times. We are just praying that it can be sustained. If we are able to get that into the new year maybe vehicle prices would reduce and based on the government providing very good enabling environment for businesses to thrive.”
Speaking on the N20bn auto finance scheme by the credit corporation (CreditCorp), he said, “The N20bn scheme is even belated because when the Auto Policy started about 10 years ago, the 35 per cent tariff being charged on fully built vehicles, the understanding we had then was that part of it would go to the auto financing and the other part would go to automobile assemblers’ facility.
“In 10 years, nothing happened and we know how much has been collected by the Federal Government from that levy.
“So N20bn is a paltry amount and the scheme is coming up a bit late. Looking at the local assembling, how many assemblers are we really having in Nigeria? Those of us that started eight, nine years ago, almost all of us have really closed shop.”
He however expressed optimism that the new Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, would turn things around.
“I believe she should be able to drive this policy. She should try as much as possible to run away from the era of deceit. She should face reality and I believe as a realist, her tenure would portend a good tiding for the automobile business,” he said.
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