By Adaobi Rhema Oguejiofor
As the world steadily moves towards Net- Zero emissions, the Nigerian motoring sector actively glides in the same direction. This can be seen from several attempts and innovations by different motor manufacturers.
Recently, Carloha, the franchise holder and assembler of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, captured the attention of automobile technicians and artisans with the demonstration of the Chery Arrizo 5’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion capability.
The Auto manufacturer showcased this development during the Nigerian Artisans and Technicians Conference (NATCO) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. The event, which took place at the Old NITEL Compound in Lagos, drew the attention of automobile technicians and artisans.
The CNG conversion capability will be a significant step towards eco-friendly transportation solutions in Nigeria. The technology, Arrizo 5 CNG, combines Chery’s modern design aesthetics with state-of-the-art technology, making it a standout option for eco-conscious consumers. It offers impressive fuel efficiency that translates to lower running costs for everyday drivers, with lower carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner, greener future for Nigeria’s roads.
According to Carloha’s technical team, the system is hybrid; allowing drivers to switch between CNG and petrol. This gives the vehicle flexibility, saves costs, and offers a lower environmental footprint. Technicians at the Conference were impressed with the vehicle’s adaptability and ease of use, receiving practical insights into the CNG system, maintenance tips, and the long-term benefits for Nigerian drivers and mechanics alike.
The After-sales Manager of Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Samson Akinbowale, noted that the company’s demonstration at NATCO is part of Carloha’s commitment to introducing cutting-edge technology and more sustainable energy options to the Nigerian automobile sector.
He noted that the organisation recognises the vital role technicians and artisans play in vehicle maintenance and is committed to empowering them with the knowledge and tools to adapt to the new wave of automotive innovation.
The Conference convener, Mr. Dayo Bello, while speaking, expressed appreciation to all supporters, especially Carloha, for the Chery display and CNG demonstration. He also stated that great things are beginning to happen in the Automotive sector, especially with regard to the assembling of new vehicles and the conversion of CNG interfaces with petrol engines that will help to save the cost of transportation in Nigeria.
Carloha further revealed that the firm is proud to be at the forefront of promoting sustainable driving solutions in Nigeria, with ongoing efforts to introduce innovative vehicles that align with global environmental standards.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Toyota Motors, Akio Toyoda, has warned that a shift to an electric vehicle-only future would lead to job losses among those who have been working on engine-related technologies, including at the many suppliers in the sector.
Toyoda made the statement to journalists at the unveiling of a bust of his father, Shoichiro Toyoda, at Nagoya University in central Japan.
According to him, there are 5.5 million people involved in the automotive industry in Japan and among them are those who have been doing engine-related (work) for a long time.
For a period of time, the world’s biggest automaker by sales has been more cautious in its approach to EVs compared to other makers and that has proved helpful as global EV sales slowed. However, Toyota champions what it calls a “multi-pathway” strategy toward zero-carbon emissions that includes EVs, hybrids, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles and other powertrain technology.
