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UNIBEN clinches top prize at National Electric Vehicle Design Competition, wins N5m
UNIBEN clinches top prize at National Electric Vehicle Design Competition, wins N5m
The University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State, has emerged as the overall winner of the inaugural 8-Seater Electric Vehicle (EV) Campus Shuttle Bus Design Competition, organized by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC). The event, aimed at fostering local innovation in sustainable transportation, concluded on Friday at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Twelve universities from across Nigeria participated in the competition, which kicked off on March 6. UNIBEN’s innovative design secured them the grand prize of N5 million, while the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), and the University of Abuja claimed the first and second runner-up spots, earning N4 million and N3 million respectively. All other participating institutions received N2 million each.
Mr. Emmanuel Ikegwuonu from UNIBEN’s Department of Mechanical Engineering led the presentation of the winning project. He highlighted that 50% of the materials used in the EV design were locally sourced, reflecting strong partnerships with local suppliers and auto manufacturers. The design, he said, was guided by the principles of sustainability — focusing on people, profit, and the planet.
Prof. Osarobo Ighodaro, who supervised the UNIBEN team, explained the technical mentoring that simplified complex engineering concepts for the students and promoted hands-on learning.
In his remarks, NADDC Director-General, Mr. Oluwemimo Osanipin, emphasized the broader goals of the initiative. “This competition was designed to encourage local innovation and demonstrate that Nigerian universities are fertile ground for ideas that can transform the automotive industry,” he said. He added that the next phase of the project — production of the winning EV design — would begin soon in collaboration with the private sector and NADDC support.
Osanipin praised the efforts of students, faculty members, industry experts, and policymakers involved in the event. “They’ve built more than just a prototype — they’ve built possibilities. This is a step toward a Nigeria that not only consumes technology but also produces and exports it,” he stated.
The initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which emphasizes industrial growth through local innovation and production.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, Special Adviser Mr. Odunsanya Adedamola commended the initiative’s alignment with the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP). He underscored the importance of empowering youth through innovation and skills development as the foundation for sustainable industrialization.
“Government, academia, and industry must continue to collaborate. What we are witnessing today is a demonstration of what’s possible when policy meets youthful ingenuity,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, represented by Prof. Wale Okunuga, highlighted how the competition aligns with UNILAG’s broader green initiatives.
Other speakers, including members of the National Assembly, echoed the growing need for clean mobility solutions in Nigeria, stressing the environmental and economic benefits of producing electric vehicles locally.
Participating universities spanned Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and included:
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH), Yola
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
University of Port Harcourt
University of Ilorin
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi.
The event marks a significant step toward homegrown, sustainable transportation solutions in Nigeria, with universities at the forefront of driving innovation.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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