Lanre Shittu assembles new pickup, plans vehicles to carry its nameplate   – Newstrends
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Lanre Shittu assembles new pickup, plans vehicles to carry its nameplate  

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Indigenous auto assembler, Lanre Shittu Motors, has revealed plans to build vehicles that will be known as Lanre Shittu expected to serve not just the needs of Nigerians but people and firms in other West African countries.

Group Executive Director of the company, Mr Taiwo Shittu, who disclosed this on Wednesday in an interview in Lagos, added that as a precursor to that, the auto company had commenced the assembling of a mid-size pickup truck called Huanghai LSM, in partnership with Dandong Huanghai Automobile Co Ltd, a Chinese automaker.

He said, “We intend to have a vehicle called LSM (Lanre Shittu Motors). We are starting from somewhere. We have partnered with Huanghai, a very good brand which is the second biggest pickup company in China. We are sharing technology and a lot of other things with them. In time, we shall transit to LSM.

“The idea is to build the Nigerian auto industry to the level of exporting our products to other African countries and beyond. That is our plan. We are growing; LSM will be 42 this year. The earlier we have our brand the better.”

Already, Shittu said the company’s assembly plant had started injecting local content into products coming from the auto assembler.

Indeed, he said about 30 per cent of components of vehicles assembled from Lanre Shittu Motors are currently sourced locally.

He said, “All the lubricants, the grease, liquid-based materials used in vehicles we assemble here are sourced locally. We also get the materials for the box body – the buckets on the trucks – our welders design and fabricate them together. In some cases, it is about 30% local content.”

He said the company was building a large assembly plant in Sagamu, Ogun State, which would be completed at the end of this year, as part of its expansion projects.

Shittu urged the Federal Government to urgently put in place policies that would “make (auto) component manufacturers to come and build factories in Nigeria.”

He added, “There is a big market for them here. But there is no policy yet to make them want to come. We can get the glass, tyres and batteries locally. No manufacturer will tell you to use its tyre or battery because they too source them from other makers of these products.

“If government places 100% duty on imported versions of these products when we start making them in Nigeria, nobody will buy imported ones when the locally-made are cheaper and of the same quality.”

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I dedicate my ‘Outstanding GM of the Year’ award to Suzuki team, says Diouf

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L-R: Aissatou Diouf, general manager, Suzuki By CFAO, receiving the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) "Outstanding GM Of The Year" Award from Mike Ochonma, chairman of NAJA, in Lagos.

I dedicate my ‘Outstanding GM of the Year’ award to Suzuki team, says Diouf

Echos of the last edition of the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association Awards held on December 14, 2023 at the prestigious Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, are still reverberating.

One of the personalities honoured with an award for her track record in turning around the fortune of an auto firm and growing the numbers of a Japanese brand in Nigeria, is Aissatou Diouf, general manager Suzuki by CFAO Nigeria Limited.

She was presented with an award as the ‘Outstanding GM Of The Year’.

Reacting to her recognition as the ‘Outstanding GM Of the Year 2023’ by NAJA, Aissatou Diouf said, “I am sincerely humbled, honoured, and exhilarated by the recognition as the ‘Outstanding GM Of The Year 2023’ by the Nigerian Automotive Journalists association.”

The excited Suzuki by CFAO GM declared that the accolade extended beyond personal triumph, resonating as a collective success for the entire Suzuki by CFAO team.

In her submission, the prestigious award serves as a powerful affirmation of the Suzuki dealership’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and, most importantly, the unwavering dedication to exceeding customer expectations.

She said, “This award fuels our passion for continuous improvement and reinforces our pledge to set new standards in the automotive industry”.

The firm noted in a statement that Aissatou Diouf’s motivation is deeply rooted in Suzuki by CFAO’s ethos.

Since inception, relentless pursuit of delivering top-notch vehicles, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and prioritizing customer satisfaction has been the cornerstone of the Suzuki brand’s success.

According to the company, the true catalyst is the collective spirit and synergy of Suzuki team members in terms of their commitment, passion, and tireless efforts, which set Suzuki by CFAO apart and propel them forward in a highly competitive industry.

Suzuki by CFAO’s success in the Nigerian market is a result of a comprehensive strategy.

The general manager noted that the franchisee had meticulously studied and adapted to local market dynamics, offering reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles tailored to the unique needs of Nigerian drivers.

It stated that the establishment of a robust dealership network ensures accessibility and exceptional service, while adaptation to the diverse preferences of the drivers has been pivotal, making every Suzuki journey synonymous with trust, reliability, and unparalleled satisfaction.

Meanwhile, Aissatou Diouf is spearheading the novel ‘Suzuki Empower Her’ project, now in its second edition.

‘Suzuki Empower Her’ is a transformative initiative dedicated to empowering and upskilling female technicians in the automotive industry, breaking gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.

The project aims not only to empower individuals but also to drive positive change within the industry by creating equal opportunities for women to excel and contribute.

The firm said the ‘Suzuki Empower Her’ project has ambitious long-term goals focused on breaking societal stereotypes, fostering gender equality, and contributing to a more inclusive automotive landscape.

By providing comprehensive training and creating opportunities for female technicians, SEH aims to be a catalyst for transformative change within the industry, promoting diversity, it stated.

Looking ahead to the future of Suzuki business in Nigeria, the award winner emphasized that the future is both promising and dynamic.

The company’s strategic focus involves expanding its footprint across the country, introducing innovative models that incorporate cutting-edge technology, revolutionary design, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

The firm said, “We are dedicated to enhancing customer experiences, exceeding expectations, and playing a leading role in shaping the future of mobility in Nigeria.”

Exciting plans are underway for 2024 that will culminate in the unveiling of new Suzuki models tailor-made to meet customers’ needs.

These vehicles will not only embody the latest technological advancements but also showcase innovative designs and a strong commitment to sustainability.

“Our goal is not just to introduce new models but to redefine the Suzuki by CFAO driving experience. We invite our customers to stay tuned for the exciting reveal of vehicles that will set new benchmarks in the automotive industry in 2024”.

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Jetour shines at Lagos Motor Show with exceptionally designed models

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Jetour shines at Lagos Motor Show with exceptionally designed models

 

Jetour Mobility Services stole the show with its models at the just concluded Lagos Motor Show held at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

This came after a similar performance at the last Abuja Motor Fair which took place the International Conference Centre.

The Lagos Motor Show offered the company the opportunity to showcase its superlative models cutting across the Dashing, X70 Plus Elegance, X90 Plus Cruise and the X70 Liberty.

Its pavilion constructed like a mini showroom, cozy and welcoming, stood out and obviously attracted almost all quality visitors to the fair.

It showcased the X90 Plus – Cruise – as the lead of the pack, offering fantastic and mouth-watering features that are hard to find in its class.

With the Jetour X90 Plus, what you find are affluent experience.

Compared to its peers, the Jetour X90 Plus offers enviable manoeuvrability and stability courtesy of its 1780mm height and exciting interior space based on its 4858mm length and 1925mm width.

Its sophisticated nature is emboldened by the hexagonal chrome-plated front grill, complemented by Tri-LED headlights. Connecting its double waistline is a new angular designed bumper, stealthy housing, front cameras and radar sensor.

The 5-Star safety-rated vehicle comes with 75% high-strength steel body cage, 360-degree panoramic camera with front and rear radar, as well as advanced safety features.

Its 1.6 litre four-cylinder Turbo engine is made to deliver 197 bhp of max power, just as its 7-speed DCT transmission powers the front wheels seamlessly. It also comes with a 2.0 litre Turbo engine that delivers 254 bhp of max power in addition to the 1.6 L engine.

Also displayed was the X70 Plus compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) that is pragmatic, stylish, comfortable and delivers power on demand.

It offers an intelligent air purification system, intuitive infotainment system, advanced wireless technology, 360-degree parking system and an electrical 6-directional control driver seat.

Other features include cruise control, lane departure warning system, blind spot monitoring, keyless entry start, multi-functional steering wheel, anti-lock brake system, front and back airbags and tyre pressure monitoring system among others.

Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the vehicle’s 1.6-litre turbo engine produces a maximum of 197 horsepower, facilitating better fuel consumption efficiency.

Still on the Jetour line up is the X70, the seven-seater SUV produced for people who desire modern technology, comfort, adventure, and affordable luxury.

The 1.5-litre turbocharged engine delivers a maximum power output of 147 horsepower and a torque output of 210 Nm.

The X70 range comes with a sleek and modern design. Its front features aggressive and sporty styling coupled with sleek headlights that give the X70 a bold appearance.

There is also the Jetour Dashing, coming with a conventional petrol engine. It comes with two engine options with a 1.5-litre turbo engine mated to a 6-speed dual clutch transmission or a 1.6-litre turbo engine mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.

Its borderless-style air intake grille, overall large fastback shape, and bilateral four-outlet exhaust ports highlight the aesthetics and dynamic figure.

Measuring 4,590/1,900/1,685mm with a 2,720mm wheelbase, the vehicle features a progressive design with sharply cut lines and sporty touches, to attract young buyers.

Jetour currently has four different SUVs, with petrol and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) powertrains. But the Dashing is the first vehicle to feature the brand’s new Kunlun Architecture.

Marketing and technical personnel of Jetour Mobility Service were on hand at the Jetour stand to attend to the numerous visitors to the show ground.

The show was graced by prominent personalities, among them the Emir of Borgu kingdom, Niger State, Mohammed Haliru Dantoro.

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CNG vehicles: Innoson named Silverbird Manufacturer of the Year 

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Chairman/CEO), Colonades Hotels and Resorts Ltd, Chief Charles Odunukwe (r) presenting the Silverbird Man of the Year award to Innoson GM, Sales & Marketing, Obum Osigwe, who represented Dr Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma.

CNG vehicles: Innoson named Silverbird Manufacturer of the Year 

Chief Innocent Chukwuma, founder and Chairman of Innoson Group of Companies, owners of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM), has bagged the Manufacturer of the Year prize at Silverbird Man of the Year Awards 2023.

The award was bestowed on him in Lagos for his feat of being the first automaker in Nigeria to commence the manufacture of a range of vehicles running on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

This came about two weeks after receiving The Sun Awards highest honour of Man of the Year.

The organisers of both awards – The Sun Publishing Ltd and the Silverbird Group – said they took into consideration the fact that Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd commenced the manufacture of sundry CNG-powered buses and other vehicles two years ahead of the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government on May 29, 2023.

The Sun and Silverbird noted that the foresight as well as the ability to assess and take risks exhibited by the IVM management in venturing into the production of CNG vehicles was commendable.

The Silverbird Manufacturer of the Year award was presented to the General Manager, Sales & Marketing, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Co. Ltd, Nnewi, Mr. Obum Osigwe, who represented Dr. Chukwuma at the colourful ceremony held in Lagos on Sunday, March 3, 2024. Speaking after receiving the award, Osigwe said the award would encourage Innoson to intensify its efforts towards manufacturing sundry top quality vehicles as needed by the auto market in Nigeria.

The Innoson GM said, “On behalf of my boss and Chairman Chief Dr Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma CON, I wholeheartedly accept this prestigious award of the Manufacturer of the Year. “We are grateful for this honour and we would keep doing our best for our dear nation, Nigeria.

“I would like to thank the Chairman of Silverbird Group, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, the management and staff of the Silverbird Group for this honour.

“This award will spur us at Innoson Vehicles to do more and increase our effort in making vehicles Nigeria and the world will be proud of.

“Thank you for shedding light on the activities of manufacturers in Nigeria. We are immensely grateful because without you, Nigerians won’t know our toils and travails in the manufacturing sector.

“Thank you so much and God bless our nation Nigeria.”

The Innoson team to the Silverbird Award included Charles Chukwuma, Ben Okoye, Francis Nwose, Joseph Okeke, and a Sales Representative, Onyinye Okeke.

Chukwuma started the production of CNG vehicles about two years before subsidy on fuel was removed and CNG became the preferred and popular alternative to petrol and diesel.

As of May 29, 2023 when the Federal Government declared that subsidy was gone, Innoson had about 100 units of sundry CNG vehicles on its premises in Nnewi, Anambra State in addition to those already delivered to customers in some parts of the country.

Moreover, Innoson was said to have demonstrated long ago that it has the capacity and facility to convert vehicles currently running on petrol and diesel to CNG, even though the service was restricted to IVM customers.

A statement from the automaker said it had embarked on the construction of a much bigger multi-billion naira IVM plant annex covering about 300 plots of land in Nnewi.

This, it said, would likely be commissioned before the end of the first quarter of 2024 (March) to concentrate on manufacturing autogas vehicles.

A video presentation at the Silverbird event informed the guests that with just a startup capital of N20,000, the young Innocent Chukwuma started his own business.

“What began with motorcycle spare parts retailing has four decades later grown into the leading proponent of made-in-Nigeria products and one of its biggest industrial success stories

“1995, Innoson Nigeria established a fully automated motorcycle assembly plant in Anambra State, becoming the first fully indigenous motorcycle maker in Nigeria.

“In the same year, the group launched Innoson Technical and Industrial Limited, the biggest Plastic manufacturing plant in Nigeria with over 150 product lines.in 2007 , Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing was birthed out of a desire to produce affordable, reliable, and durable vehicles that can compete with international car brands

“IVM Innoson has become a household name in Nigeria’s automobile industry, producing a range of innovative and robust vehicles that cater to the needs of the masses..

”According to the presentation, Innoson stands apart from other car manufacturers because of its focus on local content development.

“The company has invested heavily in research and development to design and manufacture vehicles that are tailored to Nigeria’s terrain, climate, and culture.

“Currently, Innoson employs over 7,000 people, most of them Nigerian youths, thereby providing jobs and income opportunities for the masses.”

Innoson’s success has not gone unnoticed. He was made honorary Life Vice president of the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture on 23rd of November, 2013.

Innocent is also a grand fellow of Nigerian Institute of Strategic Management.

He currently sits on the board of IVM Innoson Group of Companies and is a member of Manufacturer Association of Nigeria.

He also serves as a Chancellor at Imo State University, Owerri. Chukwuma who incidentally holds a honorary doctoral degree in Business Administration from the University of Nigeria, has won many awards including Auto Personality of the Year, Most Innovative Entrepreneur; Professor Barth Nnaji Prize for Technology at Igbo Awards, amongst many others.

For his years of excellent service to the nation, he was also conferred with the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (OFR) by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023.

Chukwuma is married to Josephine and they are blessed with three lovely children.

Chukwuma is the Silverbird recipient of the Manufacturer of the Year Award.One of the high points of the Silverbird Awards was the display of two outstanding Innoson vehicles at the entrance to the venue: IVM Caris sedan, and IVM De Imperial pick-up.De Imperial pick-up is one of the newest additions to the fast growing Innoson vehicle line-up.

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