MINI Cooper SE makes driving fun for people with disabilities. - Newstrends
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MINI Cooper SE makes driving fun for people with disabilities.

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People with disabilities do not have to be confined to wheelchairs, tricycle or minivans anymore. They can now drive themselves around in posh cars with fun, thanks to the BMW Group as it introduces a new wonder on wheel, MINI Cooper SE made drivable for those with disabilities

Companies such as BraunAbility specialized in modifying cars for those in a wheelchair also have SUVs in their portfolios, but most of the packages are tailored to the MPVs. With the Cooper SE, MINI is showing how even a small hatchback can be adapted for those suffering from mobility impairment, says the luxury automaker.

Giving a few details about the new car, the auto company says the pint-sized EV has been fitted with an accelerator ring mounted within the circle of the car’s standard steering wheel.

How does it work?

The driver manually operates the throttle function by applying hand pressure. Mounted on the right side below the steering wheel is a hand-controlled brake lever to efficiently stop the car. To avoid accidental operation, MINI has installed a pedal cover over the accelerator and brake pedals.

According to the automaker, people with disabilities can order customized solutions that suit them best by choosing from a variety of driving and operating aids.

It says driving experience instructor, Tina Schmidt-Kiendl, herself a wheelchair user, was able to provide particularly valuable input when it came to fitting the MINI Cooper SE with operating aids.

The vehicle has been equipped with an accelerator ring on the steering wheel and a handbrake knob next to the steering wheel.

“The design of the MINI Cooper SE is very accessible as it is. With the dual recuperation, you have full control for instant acceleration and braking,” said Tina Schmidt-Kiendl after her test drive.

The all-electric MINI Cooper SE (combined power consumption: 17.6 – 15.2 kWh/100 km according to WLTP; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km) features driving and operating aids that makes zero-emission driving fun in the small car segment available to people with disabilities for the first time.

Head of Mini, Stefanie Wurst, says, “For me, diversity means allowing everyone to share in the hallmark MINI driving experience. And this applies equally to the electrified MINI, of course. Our goal at MINI is to give everyone equal access to such important innovations.”

The firm says the “reduced throttle characteristic” setting makes it much easier to park and pull away gently when in congested traffic. When braking, only minimal effort is required to reduce speed with the handy brake lever.

It states further, “When mounted on the right-hand side below the steering wheel, the brake lever is easily accessible at all times and runs to the brake without any rod assembly getting in the way of the vehicle dashboard. A pedal cover for the original accelerator and brake pedals protects the driver from accidental operation, thereby enhancing safety. The cover can be easily removed at any time for versatile use of the MINI Cooper SE.

“Its modern features in the areas of driver assistance, infotainment and connectivity mean that the MINI Cooper SE continues to offer convenient usability.

“With its modern graphic display on an 8.8-inch touchscreen, the latest generation of the MINI operating system is optimised for quick and intuitive control of the vehicle functions, audio programme, communication, navigation and apps.”

 

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CFAO Mobility Open Day to offer special deals on new vehicles, parts, diagnostics

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CFAO Mobility Open Day to offer special deals on new vehicles, parts, diagnostics

 

CFAO Mobility has announced plans to host the 2026 edition of its flagship CFAO Mobility Open Day, aimed at showcasing a wide range of innovative mobility solutions.

In a statement, the company said the event would take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, from 9am to 6pm.

The Open Day is expected to bring together leading global automotive and equipment brands in a dynamic exhibition tailored to meet diverse mobility needs.

Participating brands are Toyota, BYD, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Fuso, JCB, Howo, Sino Equipment, King Long, TechKing Tyres, Yamaha, Winpart and Auto Fast.

According to CFAO Mobility, attendees will experience an extensive display of products and services, ranging from brand-new vehicles and motorcycles to outboard engines, fleet management solutions, spare parts and aftermarket services.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will also feature test drives, professional vehicle diagnostics and exclusive spare-parts deals, offering participants a hands-on and engaging experience.

The company urged car enthusiasts, business owners and prospective buyers to take advantage of the Open Day to explore mobility solutions tailored to their personal and business needs.

With over 120 years of presence in Nigeria, CFAO Mobility remains a key player in the mobility and healthcare sectors.

It added that the Open Day reflects its continued commitment to delivering innovative, customer-focused mobility solutions.

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Jetour set to ignite Lagos with four-day automotive experience

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Jetour set to ignite Lagos with four-day automotive experience

 

Lovers of sophisticated and elegant SUVs in Lagos are about to witness a combination of automotive engineering and urban lifestyle as Jetour Nigeria announces the hosting of a flagship event, “The Jetour Experience,” a four-day immersive festival designed to redefine how Nigerians interact with the road.

​From April 16 to 19, 2026, The Podium in Lekki, Lagos, will be transformed into a high-energy hub where sleek design meets high-octane entertainment. This is not just a standard car show; it’s a curated lifestyle destination, says the organisers in a statement.

The four-day event is said to promise a fusion of horsepower, high fashion, and plenty of fun.

Tagged “The Jetour Experience,” the four-day extravaganza is not just about gleaming chrome and leather seats; it is a high-octane celebration aimed at blurring the lines between mobility and entertainment.

Specifically, it stated that the exhibition would feature test drives, virtual reality gaming, fitness sessions, and interactive activities with branded giveaways.

The statement added that the arena would buzz with entertainment, including contests and interactive games, giving guests the chance to win exclusive branded gifts and prizes.

​In a massive show of force, Jetour says it is partnering with its seven prestigious accredited dealers—Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era Autovehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, R.T. Briscoe, Tab Autos Limited, Mandilas Motors, and Germaine Auto Centre —to bring their full fleet to the public.

​Whether you are an eco-conscious commuter or an off-road adventurer, the lineup has something for everyone, according to a statement by the Jetour Nigeria.

​The Urban Explorers: X50 and X70

​The Sophisticates: X70 Plus and X90 Plus

​The Eco-Warriors: X70 PHEV and T2 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrids)

​The Icons: The rugged T2 and the razor-sharp Dashing

​Jetour is blurring the lines between mobility and entertainment. Running daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, the event promises a packed itinerary designed to keep the adrenaline pumping.

Visitors will also push limits during test drives, explore virtual reality (VR) gaming such as foosball, and take part in curated fitness sessions.

In a creative masterstroke, the grand finale will feature a car runway fashion show. Attendees can expect a visual feast where automotive engineering meets sartorial elegance, reinforcing the idea that a Jetour is not just a vehicle but a fashion statement.

The firm stated, “Beyond the glitz, the event maintains a strong focus on safety. A dedicated panel discussion featuring stakeholders and officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) will explore road safety, tech-driven security, and the future of motoring in Nigeria.

“With its blend of adrenaline, artistry, and advocacy, Jetour Nigeria isn’t just hosting an event; it is creating a destination.”

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Soaring Fuel Prices Drive Nigerians Toward Electric Vehicles

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Electric Vehicles

Soaring Fuel Prices Drive Nigerians Toward Electric Vehicles 

Rising fuel prices in Nigeria are accelerating interest in electric vehicles (EVs) as households, transport operators, and businesses seek cost-effective alternatives to petrol- and diesel-powered cars. Experts say the spike in petrol costs is no longer just an economic concern but a turning point, pushing electric mobility from a futuristic idea into a practical solution for everyday commuting and commercial use.

At the Abuja Compact on Electric Mobility Roundtable, stakeholders highlighted how increasing transport expenses are reshaping decisions, especially among commercial drivers and small business owners. Rising fuel costs are prompting many Nigerians to see EVs as a survival strategy rather than a luxury option.

Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG & EV), Ismaeel Ahmed, explained that the removal of fuel subsidies has widened the cost gap between petrol-powered vehicles and EVs. Charging an EV for a 200-kilometre journey costs around ₦4,500, compared to roughly ₦22,500 for petrol vehicles — a difference that offers a “strong economic incentive” influencing consumer choices. Ahmed added that the federal government is pursuing a balanced transition strategy supporting both compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric vehicles to encourage sustainable energy alternatives.

Financial solutions are helping Nigerians overcome the high upfront costs of EVs. Mohammed Abdul, Divisional Head at Alternative Bank, noted that lease-to-own, pay-as-you-go, and partnership schemes are making EVs accessible to drivers in the informal transport sector. These financing models allow gradual adoption while easing financial burdens.

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Industry leaders also see wider economic benefits from EV adoption. Yusuf Suleiman, CEO of Bankrol Camel EV and Blue Camel Energy Ltd, said EV investments could improve energy access, boost industrial growth, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. Ahmed Garba Ahmed, COO of Bankrol Camel EV, added that EVs can cut energy costs per kilometre by up to 60%, benefiting ride-hailing drivers, logistics companies, and fleet operators.

Dapo Adesina, President of the Electric Mobility Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMPAN), explained that EV adoption can strengthen Nigeria’s power sector. Solar-powered charging hubs can simultaneously power vehicles and supply electricity to nearby communities, particularly in underserved areas. Private sector initiatives are also supporting Nigeria’s EV transition. Companies like SolarCity Gas are deploying superfast EV charging stations across key urban hubs and petrol stations, expanding the country’s charging infrastructure to meet growing demand.

Despite growing adoption, electric mobility in Nigeria faces challenges such as limited electricity infrastructure and inconsistent power supply. Analysts warn that significant investments in charging networks and supportive policies are necessary for sustainable EV growth. Nevertheless, with fuel prices remaining high, EVs are increasingly viewed as economically smart and environmentally friendly alternatives, offering Nigerians a viable solution to rising transport costs.

Soaring Fuel Prices Drive Nigerians Toward Electric Vehicles

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