NAJA 2024 Auto Awards: Mitsubishi, JAC, Maxus challenge Toyota Hilux in pickup contest – Newstrends
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NAJA 2024 Auto Awards: Mitsubishi, JAC, Maxus challenge Toyota Hilux in pickup contest

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NAJA 2024 Auto Awards: Mitsubishi, JAC, Maxus challenge Toyota Hilux in pickup contest

 

Will Mitsubishi L200 upstage Toyota Hilux as Nigeria’s Pickup of the year at the NAJA (Nigerian Auto Journalists Association) 2024 Auto Awards?

JAC T8 and Maxus’s T60 are two other strong contenders nominated along Mitsubishi L200 and Toyota Hilux for the coveted pickup of the year award this year.

This event, slated for December 11, 2024, is expected to highlight innovative designs, advanced technology, and the evolving preferences of Nigerian consumers in the utility vehicle segment.

Toyota’s Hilux, a household name synonymous with durability and performance in Nigeria, has historically held a strong grip on the pickup category.

However, competitors like Mitsubishi’s L200, JAC’s T8, and Maxus’s T60 are aiming to disrupt the market with offerings that promise superior value, innovative features, and competitive pricing.

The Mitsubishi L200 is entering the competition with a bold redesign, a robust turbo-diesel engine, and a reputation for reliability. The model boasts a sleek exterior, reinforced chassis, and cutting-edge safety features tailored for both urban and off-road environments.

Mitsubishi is also emphasizing fuel efficiency and a spacious interior to attract a broader consumer base, from businesses to adventure seekers.

Ford Ranger and Mitsubishi L200 have consistently challenged the Hilux.

But with innovations and strategic market moves, JAC and Maxus are positioning their pickup models as serious contenders in this competitive space.

JAC and Maxus are introducing alternatives that are generating buzz at the 2024 NAJA Auto Awards, which celebrate outstanding achievements in the Nigerian automobile industry.

JAC’s T8 pickup and Maxus’s T60 are being touted as key challengers to Toyota’s stronghold. Both brands have focused on blending modern technology, durability, and affordability to appeal to Nigerian consumers, particularly small business owners, fleet operators, and those seeking a vehicle that balances performance with cost-effectiveness.

The JAC T8, known for its sleek design and robust performance, has attracted attention with its impressive features and value proposition.

Experts believe that its combination of power, modern aesthetics, and an affordable price point could give the Toyota Hilux a run for its money.

Maxus, a subsidiary of the Chinese automotive giant SAIC Motor, has also emerged as a formidable player in the Nigerian pickup truck segment with the T60.

Maxus’s T60 offers a spacious cabin, impressive towing capacity, and a solid build designed for the Nigerian terrain.

The brand’s marketing strategy focuses on durability, fuel efficiency, and cutting-edge technology—attributes that could redefine the expectations for pickup trucks in the country.

While the nominees for the flagship “Car of the Year” category are still under wraps, other category contenders have been unveiled. These nominations highlight the industry’s best in manufacturing, innovation, and service delivery.

In the Heavy-Duty Truck of the Year category, JAC, FAW, and Howo Sinotruk are set for a fierce contest.

The Assembly Plant of the Year for cars sees local players Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, GAC Motors, and Mikano Motors competing for the top spot.

Similarly, Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM), Dangote Sinotruk West Africa Ltd, and Perfection Motors are vying for supremacy in the Truck Plant of the Year category.

Chisco Transport, GUO Transport Company and Okeyson Transport have been shortlisted for the transport company of the year award.

The Mini-Bus Assembly Plant of the Year includes nominees such as Jet Systems, Innoson, and Nord, while the Product Launch of the Year features entries like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Toyota Rumion, Toyota Belta, and the Suzuki Vitara.

Luxury enthusiasts will see Mercedes Benz S-Class as a strong contender for Luxury Brand of the Year, while Mercedes Benz GLE, BMW X7, and Range Rover Autobiography are competing in the Luxury SUV of the Year category.

In the Compact SUV of the Year, nominees include the Kia Sonett, Changan CS35, and Hyundai Venue, while the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Chery Tiggo Pro 2, and Nord A9 are vying for the Outstanding Entrant of the Year.

Theodore Opara, Chairman of the awards committee, explains the growing significance of these awards, saying, “Winning a NAJA Award is not just about prestige; it’s about solidifying a brand’s position in an increasingly competitive and challenging market.”

According to Mike Ochonma, NAJA Chairman, “Brands that were previously not dominant in the market are now making bold moves through customer engagement and leveraging digital platforms to enhance the purchasing experience.”

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Carloha lifts Lifemate’s 19th anniversary promo with Tiggo 8 Pro grand prize

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Carloha lifts Lifemate’s 19th anniversary promo with Tiggo 8 Pro grand prize

 

Carloha Nigeria, the official franchise holder and assembler of Chery vehicles in the country, has partnered with Lifemate Furniture to celebrate the retailer’s 19th anniversary with a month-long promotional campaign.

Running from June 1 to June 30, 2025, the celebration features unbeatable deals, family-friendly activities, and a chance to win a brand-new Tiggo 8 Pro SUV.

The anniversary promo is Lifemate’s biggest yet, offering customers massive discounts across its furniture collections, free gifts with select purchases, and fun in-store games to entertain families throughout the month. A statement y Carloha says every shopper who makes a purchase during the promo period will receive a raffle ticket for daily prizes—and a chance to win the grand prize: the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro.

The grand raffle draw will take place during Lifemate’s Grand Finale event on June 28, 2025, where one lucky customer will drive away in the premium SUV, courtesy of Carloha Nigeria.

Speaking on the partnership, General Manager at Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Taiwo Akinpelu, highlighted the brand’s mission to deliver modern mobility solutions to Nigerian consumers.

“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to enhancing lifestyles, making premium experiences more accessible for Nigerian families,” he said.

Carloha’s involvement extends beyond vehicle delivery. The Tiggo 8 Pro comes with the Carloha Care 6-6-7 aftersales package—offering six years of warranty, six years of free scheduled maintenance, and a seven-day repair promise with a courtesy vehicle if repairs take longer.

Designed for peace of mind, Carloha Care ensures every Chery owner enjoys long-term value and convenience.

This collaboration marks a celebration not only of Lifemate’s success but also of the synergy between home and mobility solutions.

As excitement builds toward the grand finale, customers have a rare chance to enjoy premium furniture deals and drive home in luxury.

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Abuja Motor Fair set for 25th edition, govs, investors meetings, others lined up 

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Abuja Motor Fair set for 25th edition, govs, investors meetings, others lined up 

A bumper edition of the annual Abuja Motor Fair is in the offing as the event enters its 25th edition this year.

Managing Director of BKG Exhibitions, Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, announced on Monday that the highly anticipated 25th edition of the fair would be held from November 24 to 28, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory.

Agwu at a press briefing on Monday described the upcoming edition as a landmark celebration, not only marking a quarter-century of consistent exhibitions but also signalling a renewed commitment to leveraging the automotive industry for national economic growth.

“We’ve been working on this event for the past two months,” Agwu stated.

“This 25th edition will be bigger, more inclusive, and more strategically aligned with national development goals.

“We’re planning a massive media campaign and stakeholders engagement across the country.”

BKG is aiming to use this platform to connect auto manufacturers, investors, government stakeholders, and the public in more meaningful ways than ever.

As part of this, the organizers plan to visit key stakeholders with journalists before the event kicks off, generating broader awareness and deeper engagement.

A major feature of the fair this year will be state-level participation, with BKG targeting all 36 state governments to showcase their transport and mobility initiatives.

This, the BKG boss said, would provide a great opportunity for state governments that have invested in transport terminals to promote it and for those intending to do so.

By providing a platform for state governments and auto companies to explore investment partnerships, the event is expected to foster practical solutions to Nigeria’s transportation and food distribution challenges.

Agwu emphasized that effective road transport systems could play a significant role in curbing inflation, lowering food prices, and reducing the cost of living.

“We are creating an interface between policymakers, investors, and the transport industry. This is our contribution to economic development,” he said.

The fair will also host strategic sessions for principal officers and members of the National Assembly, aimed at influencing policy formulation and legislative support for the automotive and transport sectors.

To further underscore the economic and policy importance of the fair, special days will be set aside for state governors to address the press and meet directly with investors and auto companies.

Agwu expressed confidence that the increased competition and collaboration within the industry would benefit consumers and propel the sector forward.

“We’ve seen what competition can do. We’re prepared to do more. Competition is good for customers,” he said.

As preparations intensify, all eyes are now on November, when Nigeria’s capital city will become the hub of transport innovation, investment opportunities, and forward-thinking dialogue on how to move the country ahead – quite literally.

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Ade.Ojo, others excited as New Era opens first exclusive Jetour showroom in Lagos (Updated)

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Ade.Ojo, others excited as New Era opens first exclusive Jetour showroom in Lagos (Updated)

 

New Era Autovehicle Services Limited on Wednesday, June 18, unveiled Nigeria’s first exclusive Jetour showroom in Lekki, Lagos — a landmark move set to reshape the country’s automotive landscape.

The state-of-the-art facility was launched in a high-profile ceremony attended by top industry stakeholders, including Chief Michael Ade.Ojo, Chairman of Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL); MD of TNL, Kunle Ade-Ojo, and former Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi.

Chief Ade.Ojo, who officially commissioned the showroom as guest of honour, praised the Jetour brand for its rugged design and suitability for Nigeria’s challenging road and climate conditions.

He urged both individuals and organisations to consider Jetour for its durability and advanced technology.

“This initiative represents innovation, reliability, and a forward-looking vision for the auto industry,” he stated.

Delivering the keynote address, Kemi Koyejo, Managing Director of New Era Autovehicle Services, said the launch marked a transformative moment for mobility and customer experience in Nigeria.

“Today, we don’t just open a showroom; we begin a bold journey toward redefining automotive excellence in this country,” Koyejo declared.

“We are proud to introduce the first exclusive Jetour dealership — offering world-class technology, luxurious SUVs, rugged off-roaders, and cutting-edge electric vehicles to Nigerian consumers.”

She said the facility would serve as a comprehensive service hub, offering real-time access to Jetour vehicles, after-sales support, certified pre-owned cars, competitive pricing, and flexible financing options.

Highlighting the company’s green commitment, Koyejo announced an expanding lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles aimed at reducing carbon emissions and supporting a more sustainable future.

She expressed gratitude to Jetour Mobility Services Nigeria Limited for its support and acknowledged her business partner, Mr. Raf Abanum, for his consistent encouragement.

Guests at the event were given an exclusive tour of the showroom, which showcased Jetour’s full range — from luxury models to adventure-ready vehicles.

The new facility is expected to significantly boost the brand’s market presence and responsiveness to Nigeria’s growing demand for affordable, technologically advanced and durable vehicles.

With this launch, Jetour joins a growing list of global automotive brands expanding in Nigeria, responding to rising consumer appetite for performance, innovation and value in the auto sector.

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