Auto
NADDC closes design phase of electric shuttle bus competition, celebrates Nigeria’s future engineers
NADDC closes design phase of electric shuttle bus competition, celebrates Nigeria’s future engineers
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has completed the design phase of its pioneering 8-Seater Campus Shuttle Bus Competition.
The momentous ceremony held at the University of Lagos brought together key stakeholders from government, academia, and the industry to celebrate the innovation and ingenuity of future automobile engineers in 12 participating Nigerian universities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Director General at NADDC, Oluwemimo Osanipin,
commended the students and participating institutions for their dedication and vision.
Represented by Engr. Ayinde Abdullahi, Director of the Vehicle Electrification Department at the NADDC, Osanipin said the mission of the competition was not just about building a vehicle; it was to build capacity,
“We are equipping our engineering students with the mindset, skills, and structure needed to thrive in the fast-evolving global mobility sector,” he stated.
The project, launched as part of NADDC’s broader commitment to fostering local innovation and promoting sustainability in the automotive industry, tasked university teams with designing an electric shuttle bus suitable for campus use.
Each university formed multi-disciplinary teams, comprising 20 members—10 of them students— were charged with the task of producing a detailed project management plan document; a feasibility video and accompanying presentation; preliminary and holistic vehicle design files.
“These are not just checkboxes,” Osanipin declared, adding, “They are architectural plans that represent innovation, creative resilience, and future possibilities.”
Five universities that qualified for the final round and made presentations on their designs are Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi, Federal University of Technology Owerri, University of Abuja, University of Benin and University of Lagos.
Submissions were assessed by a panel of judges representing academia, government, and the industry—ensuring a balanced evaluation of both technical sophistication and societal impact.
As the design phase draws to a close, NADDC is setting its sights on the next phase: physical development. Selected designs may proceed to construction, testing, and possible deployment across Nigerian university campuses.
“Today, we close the design phase. But tomorrow opens new doors to build, test, refine, and possibly deploy these solutions,” Osanipin said. “To our students: You are no longer just learners; you are leaders in the making.”
The event marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to localize the development of sustainable transport solutions, while empowering the next generation of engineers and innovators.
“To Nigeria: This is just the ignition; our engines of change are ready to run,” the NADDC DG stated.
He added, “May the spark ignited here fuel an entire ecosystem of excellence, sustainability, and mobility—Made in Nigeria, made for the world.”
UNILAG Vice Chancellor, Prof Folasade Ogunsola, represented by Prof Solomon Okunuga, Director of the Research Management Office, expressed appreciation to the council for the initiative and kick-starting an innovation that could launch Nigeria into the globally recognised high-tech nations.
She urged all relevant groups to push forward the worthy outcomes of the design project and ensure adequate funding of the automobile engineering project.
Already, the VC said UNILAG was currently running electric bus shuttle on its campus.
With this initiative, NADDC continues to champion indigenous innovation, encouraging collaboration between academia and industry in driving forward Nigeria’s EV future.
Overall winner of the competition will be unveiled on Friday July 25 at a ceremony to be graced by high-ranking officials such as ministers of Industry Trade and Investment as well as that of Education, the Director-General of NADDC, the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos. industry leaders, academia, mentors and students.

Auto
JéGO unveils zero carbon EV after 505km single-charge test drive by police officer, plans Nigeria-based factory
JéGO unveils zero carbon EV after 505km single-charge test drive by police officer, plans Nigeria-based factory
JéGO Technologies Inc has launched its new high-intelligence electric vehicle, the JéGO Zero Carbon, into the Nigerian market—signalling a major leap in the country’s shift towards clean, intelligent, and locally adapted mobility.
The unveiling led by JéGO Founder and CEO Frederick Akpoghene at the 5th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (ICAIR) was held at the University of Lagos.
Akpoghene reaffirmed the company’s mission to build transportation solutions engineered specifically for African conditions.
To demonstrate its durability, the JéGO Zero Carbon underwent a bold 505 km real-world endurance test: Ajah → Ikoyi → Osun State → back to Ajah — all completed on one full charge.
During the journey, the EV: climbed steep, muddy slopes after rainfall; navigated unpaved rural roads and villages; maneuvered through pothole-ridden corners using its 360° camera system; outperformed several petrol vehicles that stalled or turned back, and maintained strong traction, cooling, and stability across conditions.
Inside the cabin, a built-in mini-fridge kept the crew refreshed throughout the trip, turning the vehicle into a mobile workspace.
First in Nigeria
The entire Lagos–Osun–Lagos trip was driven by Officer Ebenezer of the Nigeria Police Force — not in an escort capacity, but as the sole driver.
His performance provided compelling proof that law enforcement can seamlessly adapt to EVs
- The Zero Carbon suits patrols, rapid-response operations, and government duties
- EVs can withstand long distances and mixed terrains typical of policing routes
Officer Ebenezer praised the vehicle’s handling, comfort, and safety.
The Osun trip followed an invitation from JéGO’s clean-energy partner PAM to its Net Zero Village.
Residents, engineers, climate activists, and youth innovators explored the EV, many expressing excitement at seeing an electric vehicle designed with Nigerian realities in mind.
“We’re proving that EVs are not for elites. JéGO EVs are for everyday Nigerians — founders, business people, government workers, first responders, and the police,” Akpoghene said.
Performance stuns Osun govt
State officials were astonished that the EV:
- Completed a same-day interstate journey without recharging
- Navigated rural and muddy terrain effortlessly
- Returned to Lagos on the same charge
When asked how the team planned to get back to Lagos, Akpoghene replied confidently, “Our police driver will take us back.”
And he did — seamlessly.
Following the successful demonstration, JéGO announced plans to establish its first electric vehicle and clean-energy manufacturing plant in Nigeria.
Multiple states have already tabled offers as:
Land allocation
Industrial incentives
Tax support
Workforce partnerships
Long-term collaboration frameworks
The proposed factory will support:
Local EV assembly
SKD/CKD operations
Production of JéGO PowerPods and batteries
EV servicing and diagnostics
Export to West Africa
Large-scale job creation
Final site selection will depend on infrastructure, energy availability, logistics access, and government partnership strength.
Smart, performance-driven
The Zero Carbon comes with 505km driving range, 360° surround-view cameras, traction control and hill-assist, anti-skid systems for wet roads, high-output LED lighting, Intelligent Battery Management System, egenerative braking and advanced cooling and AC systems.
Drivers praised its quiet ride and stability over rough terrain.
Charging
The EV supports:
Home charging
Public charging
Fast charging (where available)
Solar charging via JéGO PowerPods
With PowerPods, users — including security agencies — can charge their vehicles without relying on the grid.
JéGO says it is offering:
Lease-to-own plans
Staff and driver purchase programmes
This provides accessible entry points for SMEs, government agencies, ride-hailing operators, and everyday individuals.
Akpoghene said the Zero Carbon proves that long-distance, intelligent EV mobility is achievable in Nigeria — even under the rigors of police operation.
“Nigeria is not waiting for the world,” he said. “We’re building our own mobility and energy ecosystem. And the next step is manufacturing these systems right here at home.”
JéGO will now expand deployment of its EVs, PowerPods, JéGO X stations, and energy solutions across strategic states, supported by its upcoming Nigerian factory.
Auto
Jetour to showcase full SUV line-up, hybrid vehicles at 2025 Abuja motor fair
Jetour to showcase full SUV line-up, hybrid vehicles at 2025 Abuja motor fair
Jetour Mobility Services is set to make a strong presence at the 2025 Abuja International Motor Fair, showcasing its full range of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), cutting-edge hybrid models, and customer-focused services.
The brand will display its impressive line-up, such as the Jetour T2, Jetour X70 Plus, Jetour X90 Plus, Jetour X70 Dashing, and Jetour X50, as well as its newly introduced hybrid variants, the X70 Hybrid and T2 Hybrid.
These models combine performance with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, designed with today’s families and adventure-minded drivers in mind, blending advanced technology, comfort, and affordability.
Jetour’s participation underscores its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, strengthening its footprint in the SUV and crossover segments.
The company’s steady rise in the Nigerian market has been remarkable, validated by its “Fastest Growing Auto Brand of the Year” award at the 2024 Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Awards.
Jetour Nigeria is also highlighting its robust after-sales service, including genuine spare parts, technical support, and a comprehensive five-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty.
The firm says it looks forward to engaging with customers, showcasing its latest innovations, and reinforcing its position as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising automotive brands at the fair, scheduled for November 18-21 at the Eagle Square, Abuja.
Auto
BYD unveils ‘Atelier BYD’, creative hub blending innovation, sustainability, lifestyle in Lagos
BYD unveils ‘Atelier BYD’, creative hub blending innovation, sustainability, lifestyle in Lagos
BYD has introduced an exciting initiative at its brand-new showroom in the heart of Victoria Island, a monthly showcase dedicated to projects that reflect its core values of innovation, sustainability, and lifestyle.
The first edition in October featured PITH Africa, an Afrocentric streetwear brand redefining creative expression for a new generation.
Currently on display until the end of November is Mint Organic Care, a brand that champions eco-conscious living and personal well-being.
For December, a Christmas Pop-Up will spotlight projects such as Clay of Lagos, Kelly Praise, Stitches by Lope, Mostudeo, PITH Africa, and Mint Organic Care.
Upcoming editions will continue to feature innovative projects, each bringing fresh ideas and unique perspectives to enrich this collaborative platform.
BYD Nigeria is the sole and official distributor of BYD electric and hybrid vehicles in Nigeria. The brand is distributed by CFAO Mobility, a leading automotive distributor and subsidiary of the CFAO Group, which has been present in Nigeria for over 120 years.
-
Education3 days agoReps halt WAEC 2026 CBT plan, say schools not ready till 2030
-
metro3 days ago“You introduced me to drugs” — Regina Daniels’s co wife, Laila, fires back
-
metro1 day agoKperogi debunks online claims linking Naval Officer Yerima to retired Gen. M.M. Yerima
-
Africa3 days agoAU Chief dismisses Trump’s genocide claim, says Nigeria faces complex security crisis
-
Entertainment3 days agoForgotten star: Pa Ojoge’s heartbreaking story of survival, neglect
-
metro2 days agoNed Nwoko’s household in turmoil as wives clash publicly on Instagram
-
Education3 days agoASUU warns Tinubu govt over delay in agreement renegotiation
-
Sports2 days agoSuper Eagles crush Gabon 4–1 after extra time to reach World Cup playoff final

