Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) has announced the launch of its first electric vehicle, proudly produced in Nigeria.
The company’s Head of Communications and Corporate Affairs, Cornel Osigwe, shared the milestone in a Facebook post, underscoring its significance for the Nigerian automotive industry.
“I just test-drove the first Innoson vehicle Electric vehicle produced in Nnewi. We are just starting,” Osigwe wrote, celebrating the achievement.
The electric vehicle was manufactured at IVM’s production facility in Nnewi, Anambra State, marking a key moment in the country’s efforts to advance its automotive capabilities.
Although details regarding the pricing, production volume, and timeline for commercial release were not disclosed, Osigwe revealed that the initial batch of vehicles has already been sold out.
He stated, “We have received hundreds of calls and upfront payment from interested clients who want to be the first set to drive the Innoson Electric Vehicle. My inbox was filled with enquiries on the prices.”
The debut of IVM’s electric vehicle signals a growing interest in sustainable transport solutions. Electric vehicles (EVs) are instrumental in reducing carbon emissions, with road transport accounting for over 15% of global energy-related emissions, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Globally, the EV market continues to expand, with electric passenger cars now representing 18% of new car sales as of 2023, driven by improvements in range, model variety, and performance.
Innoson’s foray into the electric vehicle sector represents a significant step for Nigeria in the shift toward sustainable automotive solutions.