₦airaland Forum

Dana Motors rolls out CNG buses to cut transportation cost

Amaka Anagor-Ewuzie

September 17, 2024

…Set to provide mobile CNG stations to fleet operators

Dana Motors, an automotive company in Nigeria, has rolled out fully Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses locally assembled in Nigeria to cut down transportation costs for Nigerians.

The automaker said is also committed to providing mobile CNG refuelling stations for big fleet operators to eliminate the difficulty involved in refuelling CNG buses in Nigeria.

Jacky Hathiramani, managing director of Dana Motors, described the development as a new dawn for Nigeria’s energy and auto sectors.

He said Dana Motors remained committed to proffering the latest, environmentally friendly, and also affordable automotive solutions in Nigeria.

“Since its inception, Dana Motors has been at the forefront of bringing the latest automotive solutions to the Nigerian market. Since the commencement of our assembly operations in 2014 with an installed capacity of assembling 18,000 units annually, our commitment has not wavered in terms of local content and job creation,” Hathiramani said.

The CNG buses have a sitting capacity that ranges between 14 and 45 seats and will offer a considerable reduction in operational costs to Nigerians compared to conventional petrol or diesel-powered buses.

They are built with the capacity to cover distances of up to 500 kilometres before being recharged, an added advantage in intra-city and intercity transportation.

Dana Motors said the CNG buses can serve as a solution for reducing transportation costs while contributing towards environmental sustainability. Besides their cost-effectiveness due to heavy cuts in fuel costs, CNG-powered buses promise lower emissions trends, and most countries are moving toward cleaner energy in transport.

“The company is ready to provide mobile CNG stations to big fleet operators across the country so that the refuelling infrastructure will be in place to give full efficiency to those vehicles. We are committed to supporting the initiative of the government for popularising CNG as an alternative fuel by providing infrastructure such as mobile CNG stations, mainly for fleet operators,” Hathiramani added.

In addition to the technological and economic benefits, Dana Motors said is focused on ensuring that the buses are designed for comfort with state-of-the-art amenities for passengers. Equipped with air conditioning, an electric glass central lock, and an audio-visual system, the buses offer not just practicality but also comfort for everyday use.

The move also represents a strategic leap in the Nigerian automotive and energy landscape, with the company furthering its pioneering effort of introducing innovative solutions into the local market.

Again, the introduction of these new CNG buses will ensure environmental sustainability and the development of Nigeria’s public transportation system.

The auto dealer said it’s working in collaboration with major stakeholders, including the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) among other agencies, to ensure that this will be one with long-reaching effects, setting a stage for new beginnings within the automotive sector.

CFAO Nigeria unveils CNG-powered King Long bus for sustainable transportation

By Theodore Opara

In response to the rising cost of fuel and the growing demand for alternatives to petrol engines, CFAO Equipment Nigeria has introduced a Compressed Natural Gas, CNG-powered bus, providing a sustainable and practical option for road transport operators.

The introduction of the 7-meter King Long CNG bus is aimed at reducing the financial strain on transporters and commuters, while also offering an environmentally friendly solution.

The General Manager of CFAO Equipment Nigeria, Francois Van Bladel, explained that the CNG-powered bus is factory-built with the latest technology, making it a highly efficient option in today’s challenging economic environment. With fuel prices at an all-time high, CNG presents a cost-effective alternative to petrol and diesel, giving owners a way to cut down on operating expenses.

“This vehicle comes at a time when the high cost of petrol is creating significant challenges for both transport operators and passengers. The King Long CNG bus offers a reliable solution that reduces fuel expenses and contributes to cleaner air in our cities,” Van Bladel said.

He added, “By introducing the CNG-powered King Long bus, we are not only addressing the economic realities of the Nigerian market but also showing our commitment to greener and more sustainable transportation solutions.”

The King Long bus, equipped with four 80-litre CNG cylinders, ensures ample fuel capacity and reducing the need for frequent refills — a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to lower transportation costs. With a spacious 25+1 passenger capacity, the bus is ideal for various transportation needs, including commercial transport, school shuttles, and staff buses.

Moreover, the bus’s top-mounted 12kW air conditioning system ensures that passengers travel in comfort. Added features like a rearview camera enhance the overall safety and ease of operations for drivers.

The King Long bus is powered by a YC4D140N-50 engine that complies with Euro V emission standards, offering both fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This ensures that bus owners can save on fuel costs while helping to reduce the harmful pollution associated with traditional petrol and diesel engines.

Designed with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 7,000 kg, the bus is suitable for city and inter-city travel, making it a versatile option for both private and public transport services in Nigeria. It comes with a warranty of 12 months or 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, underscoring CFAO’s commitment to providing reliable solutions for Nigerian roads.

CFAO Equipment Nigeria is ensuring that spare parts and after-sales services are readily available across its nationwide network, offering operators peace of mind in maintaining their buses. By adopting this solution, transporters can gain a financial advantage by switching to CNG, especially in light of the continued volatility in petrol prices.

Mezovest, Elizade to set up CNG daughter stations

Abubakar Ibrahim

February 21, 2024

Mezovest, a natural gas distribution company, and Elizade, an automobile dealer, have concluded plans to introduce an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to petrol through the establishment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) daughter stations.

Tosin Thompson, managing director of Mezovest, who disclosed this in a statement, said the hike in the price of petrol and diesel informed the development.

He said: “Given the hike in the price of petrol and diesel, there has been a surge in the demand for cleaner, more affordable fuel options.

“This demand has created a favourable market opportunity for both companies to create value for millions of Nigerians who are seeking affordable energy alternatives.”

According to him, recent policy initiatives of the Federal Government seeking to provide incentives for alternative energy is a key factor accelerating the partnership with Elizade Motors.

“Mezovest will oversee logistics, site selection, technology integration, and operational execution, while Elizade will provide automotive support, offer CNG-compatible vehicles, and spearhead marketing efforts through its extensive network,” he added.

On his part, Demola Ade-Ojo, CEO of Elizade Autoland, expressed confidence and excitement about the partnership, describing it as timely and economically imperative.

“Our collaboration with Mezovest will not only deliver exceptional value to customers and partners nationwide in terms of significant cost savings but will also contribute to a healthier environment,” he said.

According to him, the cost savings would translate into increased disposable income that will impact Nigeria’s economy positively.

“As Nigeria grapples with rising inflation driven by high energy costs, Mezovest and Elizade are keen on transforming a major economic hiccup into a market opportunity by providing affordable alternative energy to Nigerians across the country,” he said. “This leading-edge partnership will potentially represent a significant step towards a more sustainable and economically viable energy future in Nigeria.”

‘Toyota ready for CNG policy’

July 17, 2024 by Tajudeen Adebanjo

The Managing Director of Toyota (Nigeria) Limited (TNL), Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, said the auto giant would be lending its big network of workshops to support the Federal Government’s campaign for the use of Compressed Natural Gas-powered (CNG) vehicles through conversion.

Ade-Ojo stated this during Toyota Motor Show organised by the TNL in Lagos. TNL launched two new models of Toyota – Belta and Rumion – into the nation’s market at the show.

“We are almost concluding arrangements with different partners to use our network of workshops for the vehicles conversion to CNG-powered,” TNL boss said.

Ade-Ojo stated that plans are on to unveil three new electric vehicles into the country in the next three years as part of its plans to support the government’s green deal initiative.

“By the end of this year, we’ll be introducing our first hybrid electric vehicle, the Cross. Next year, we’ll introduce the RAV4 hybrid. And late next year or early 2026, we would be bringing in the Land Cruiser Prado hybrid,” he stated.

The TNL MD recalled that Nigeria sold about 10,000 new vehicles last year, with Toyota recording about 1,500 units.

He said that about 15,000 new vehicles were projected to be sold in Nigeria this year, adding that Toyota was on course to double its last year’s performance.

Toyota (Nigeria) Limited has officially launched two new models of Toyota, Belta and Rumion, into the nation’s market.

The unveiling of Toyota Belta and Rumion, was one of the highlights of the maiden edition of the exclusive Toyota Motor Show.

Ade-Ojo performed the unveiling assisted by Rear Admiral Yusuf, who represented Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

Apart from the launch, the motor show featured vehicles display, special after-sale packages, test drives and engaging interactions.

The three-day event held at The Podium, Lekki, under a setting and ambience akin to international auto shows in Europe and America, also accommodated the Body and Paint Section, the Spare Parts section and the Service area.

Apart from the TNL MD Ade-Ojo, other executives of TNL were on ground giving details of each of the vehicles displayed as well as after-sales advisory.

“This show is for all Toyota customers and other Nigerians interested in buying Toyota vehicles,” Ade-Ojo said, adding “While we’re still participating in other fairs, this exclusive Toyota Motor Show will enable us to concentrate on our customers’ needs, giving them a view of our range of vehicles and letting them to know other services that the company offers in terms of after-sale service, spare parts availability and body and paint as well as other value-adding services.”

The show, he said, afforded the TNL team an opportunity to “have a one-on-one interaction with our customers without any distraction; free diagnosis on customers’ vehicles and a test drive, all taking place in a quiet and comfortable environment.”

Ade-Ojo, who also had a parley with the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), expressed satisfaction with the attendance and the outcome of the event.

He said, “It was a wonderful outing. Everybody enjoyed the ability to come and have a one-on-one interaction with our team. The after-sale area is one sector that has been of major interest to customers who have been coming. The free diagnosis has been well received.”

R.T. Briscoe Motors to Open CNG Autogas Vehicle Conversion Centres Nationwide

4 months ago

RT. Briscoe Plc, Motors Division has set up conversion centres that will make it possible for vehicles using petrol to switch to Compressed Natural Gas, (CNG).

The CNG conversion kits are manufactured in Europe and with one of the best global rating standards while RT. Briscoe Plc, automotive division has a well trained technical and professional team that can handle the installation.

This is a strategic move to align with the ongoing Presidential initiative on Compressed Natural Gas programme (Pi-CNG), lower the cost of both institutional and corporate fleet operations, including individual vehicle buyers, as well as bolster investor confidence.

The Group Managing Director of RT Briscoe, Seyi Onajide, who stated this during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, said the automotive division of the conglomerate has decided to set up a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) conversion facility in line with the Federal Government’s CNG initiative (Pi-CNG).

“We started the conversion of petrol or diesel engine cars into CNG and LPG without government funding. and we believe it is the future. We have successfully done that on some Pick-up vehicles.”

He said the company has submitted a proposal to the Presidential CNG committee, stating, “They invited us to participate in the CNG initiative. We believe that the average vehicle owner in Nigeria and even commuters can benefit from this initiative because it has a lot of benefits. It will save costs for the motoring public.”

However, Onajide said the initiative could be impeded by the non-availability of CNG and LPG refilling stations as there are about three in Lagos, which is why the need for an hybrid model.

To kick-start the project, he said, RT Briscoe Plc has approached some corporate institutions that are fleet owners that have justifiable reasons to invest in building gas-refilled plants in their premises.

According to him, until gas refilling stations are readily available, CNG would be limited to big organisations that can house and store their gas. Highpoint of the event was the inspection and hand-on test drive of the finished vehicle already running on petrol, but also converted to run on compressed natural gas.

RT Briscoe Plc is engaged in the sales and servicing of Toyota vehicles, technical services, material handling and property development and management.

The Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG) is a component of the palliative intervention of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration directed at providing succor to the masses occasioned by the transitive hardships of the fuel subsidy removal policy of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

With a projected $2.5 billion investment by 2027, the Presidential CNG Initiative is poised to drive Nigeria towards a sustainable and prosperous future, where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. “This journey towards a sustainable and prosperous future, collaboration is key.

Innoson deepens autogas with conversion centre

By Abdullateef Aliyu, Lagos
Fri, 19 Apr 2024

Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM) Ltd, Nnewi, Anambra State has said it is setting up an IVM CNG conversion centre for the conversion of fuel or diesel-powered vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas and Liquefied Natural Gas (CNG/LNG) powered vehicles.

This is just as the company restated its commitment to the vision of continuous investment in the production of top quality vehicles that meet the demand of the Nigerian market and other African countries.

Daily Trust reports that the federal government has declared a decade of gas and CNG/LNG-powered vehicles as a component of the initiative even as a Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative, (PCNGi) is targeting the conversion of at least one million vehicles by 2027.

For Innoson, the IVM Gas conversion centre at Naze, Owerri, Imo State is one leg of its massive investment in the autogas initiative to key into the federal government’s agenda.

“The state-of-the-art facility is for the conversion and retrofitting of fuel/diesel-powered vehicles to CNG/LNG powered vehicles,” the Head of Communications, Innoson Vehicles, Mr Cornel Osigwe, explained in a statement highlighting the contributions of IVM in easing access to brand new vehicles for Nigerians.

According to Innoson, its assembly plants have been busy over the years producing top-quality vehicles for all segments of the market.

Mr Cornel added that “About two years ago, we made history by becoming the first, and so far the only, manufacturer of CNG/Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-powered vehicles in Nigeria, for which we have earned it many recognitions.

“Moreover, the presentation of Quality Management Certificate and the MANCAP Certificate by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to Innoson in 2023 is a confirmation of our adherence to high international quality standards in the manufacture of our range of vehicles.

“So, with all these production activities and sustained investments, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Co, Nnewi, cannot be described as an assembly plant in ruins.”

Osigwe maintained that it was in pursuit of its avowed vision that the auto company upgraded its factory operations from manual production to semi-automation, and then to standard automation, resulting in the production capacity increasing from 10,000 vehicles to 60,000 vehicles per annum.

The company also said that rather than soft-pedalling on this vision, it has in the past few years upscaled its production technology, in addition to embarking on a plant expansion and establishment of a new production facility in Nsukka.

IVM said since its plant commenced vehicle manufacturing more than 13 years ago, it had gone beyond the initial mini buses and pick-ups, with the addition of different models of sedans, Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), family vehicles, fire trucks, as well as city and inter-city buses of various sizes.

Innoson is also investing in the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) where it is partnering with the institution to establish a plant that will be manufacturing units of 20HP agricultural tractors with the brand name Lion IVM, he said.

“Apart from the Umuezena and UNN projects, Innoson Vehicles is currently setting up an IVM CNG conversion centre at Naze, Owerri, Imo State. The state-of-the-art facility is for the conversion and retrofitting of fuel/diesel powered vehicles to CNG/LNG powered vehicles,” he added.

He also gave insight in a press statement on partnership with the military, stating that Innoson Vehicles had been collaborating with the Nigerian Air Force for the development and promotion of joint activities to sustain the maintenance of the Nigerian Air Force Air assets and other associated Aerospace Ground Equipment (AGE).

He stated that the company was equally in partnership with the Nigerian Army for the modification of some of its equipment, local production of armoured fighting and utility vehicles.

The Nnewi auto plant has in the past few years exported IVM vehicles to some African countries, including Sierra Leone, Niger, Congo, Ghana, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso.

Hyundai Nigeria moves to ease transport costs with locally made CNG vehicles

Hyundai Nigeria, a subsidiary of Stallion Group, has joined the list of Nigerian-owned automakers driving the adoption of the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (Pi-CNG) by rolling out CNG vehicles for various categories of automobile users in the country.

The vehicles are assembled in Nigeria, and the models include the Hyundai Grand i10, Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Creta, and Hyundai Tucson.

The automaker views its latest offerings as supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to provide the country with sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.

Head of Sales and Marketing for Hyundai Nigeria, Gaurav Vashisht, said the locally assembled CNG vehicles cater to most vehicle buyers, including retail customers and status vehicle owners from different corporate companies.

“For instance, the CNG Grand i10 is largely targeted at fleet owners and first-time buyers focused on vehicle reliability and low cost of ownership. With Hyundai CNG vehicles, our customers, including first-time car buyers, will be able to acquire tropicalised and affordable vehicles that come with factory-fitted CNG facilities instead of converting imported used petrol vehicles to CNG.

“Our latest Grand i10, Accent, Creta, and Tucson come with factory-fitted CNG kits, including the bulletproof CNG cylinders, which are safer than petrol tanks but take up less trunk space, unlike the converted conventional vehicles,” Vashisht said.

According to Vashisht, the company has put in place auto finance options for buyers to enable all interested buyers, who are unable to make a one-time payment, to benefit from the cost-saving motoring incentives of the CNG vehicles.

The President Bola Tinubu-led administration introduced the Presidential CNG Initiative in 2023, a programme aimed at encouraging automakers to flood the country with factory-fitted CNG vehicles.

Because CNG emits far less carbon than traditional fossil fuels, vehicles running on CNG are more environmentally friendly.

Also, owners of CNG vehicles pay an equivalent of about N300 per litre compared to petrol, which currently sells for almost N1,000 per litre.

“Like all CNG-powered vehicles, the newly introduced Grand i10, Accent, Creta, and Tucson guarantee higher fuel economy and lower running costs. Most importantly, our newly introduced locally assembled CNG vehicles are backed by a three-year unlimited mileage warranty and supported by over 30 years of Stallion Group’s nationwide aftersales network facilities,” Vashisht added.

Common among the newly introduced CNG vehicles are style, economy, strength, and safety. For instance, sporty and trendy, the CNG Grand i10 is not only powered by a multi-point injected engine mated to an automatic transmission, but it also comes with safety features, including an anti-lock brake system (ABS), rear parking assist system (RPAS), and dual airbags.

The CNG Accent, which comes with a super-strong body structure, six airbags, ABS, rearview camera, and safety windows, is powered by a 1.5 MPi engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Equipped with rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a six-airbag system, cruise control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and more, the Hyundai Creta, a compact crossover, is powered by a smart engine built with Dual Variable Valve Timing for improved performance, with gearbox options expanded to include a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

On the other hand, the CNG Tucson is powered by a Smartstream 2.0-litre engine, mated to a smart transmission that automatically adjusts gear shift intervals based on an analysis of recent driving patterns.

Flaunting an innovative sporty SUV style, Tucson’s spacious interior and extensive safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Surround View Monitor, and Blind-Spot View Monitor, are bound to attract safety- and style-loving Nigerian auto buyers.

lexy2014:
We de Nigeria. She loss for UK.

Where we go "spread the word" go?

If she is being looked for in UK, wetin make people for Nigeria do?

Police discover drugs in bag labelled 'definitely not a bag full of drugs'

The stash was discovered in Portland, Oregon, when officers stopped a driver and passenger inside an allegedly stolen car.

Saturday 12 October 2024

Police in the US have found drugs inside a bag labelled "definitely not a bag full of drugs".

The stash was discovered in Portland, Oregon, when officers stopped a driver and passenger inside an allegedly stolen car.

Posting about the incident on X, Portland Police Bureau said scales, cash and a loaded gun were also found.

Pictured along with the items recovered from the vehicle was a small brown make-up bag with the words "definitely not a bag full of drugs" written on the front.

Despite the claim on the vanity case, more than 10g of fentanyl and meth was reportedly found inside.

According to local media, a man and a woman were arrested over the incident.

The pair are reportedly facing charges of drug possession and possession of a stolen vehicle.