Nigeria's automotive landscape is set for a dramatic transformation as E.F. Network announces plans to establish a large-scale electric and hybrid vehicle assembly plant with an initial capacity of 40,000 units annually. The ambitious project, unveiled at the Lagos International Trade Fair, marks a significant milestone in the country's journey toward sustainable transportation.
Massive Production Scale and Employment Opportunities
The company's Chairman and CEO, Gideon Egbuchulam, revealed that the assembly plant will commence operations by the first quarter of 2026. During the initial phase, the facility will produce 40,000 vehicles each year, with plans to expand production to an impressive 100,000 units by 2028.
This groundbreaking initiative is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities across Nigeria. Projections indicate the creation of over 5,000 direct jobs and approximately 20,000 indirect employment positions, providing a significant boost to the local economy and technical workforce.
Vehicles Designed for Nigerian Conditions
E.F. Network has partnered with Chinese automaker Zhejiang Pukao New Energy Vehicle Co., Ltd (BCBL) to develop vehicles specifically tailored to address Nigeria's unique challenges. The company showcased two hybrid models at the trade fair that demonstrate practical solutions for local conditions.
The Orca hybrid model offers an impressive combined range of 385 kilometres, comprising 185 kilometers of pure electric drive supplemented by an additional 200 kilometers from its petrol extender. Another model, the Panda, can travel up to 150 kilometers on a single charge.
Egbuchulam emphasized that these vehicles provide crucial flexibility for Nigerian drivers. In areas experiencing unreliable power supply, users can seamlessly switch to petrol power, ensuring they remain mobile regardless of charging infrastructure limitations.
Infrastructure Development and Payment Plans
The company's Director of Business Development, Chidi Success, confirmed that significant progress has been made in establishing the necessary infrastructure for the project. Land acquisition and technical partnerships are already finalized, with teams of Chinese engineers prepared to collaborate with Nigerian professionals during construction and training phases.
Critical discussions are underway with major energy companies including MRS and Oando to establish nationwide public charging stations. These charging points will function similarly to CNG refill stations, providing familiar and accessible locations for vehicle recharging.
To enhance vehicle accessibility, E.F. Network will introduce a customer-friendly payment plan requiring only 30 percent upfront payment, with the remaining balance spread over six to twelve months.
Government Support and Industry Impact
Egbuchulam credited the Federal Government's renewed focus on electric mobility as a key driver behind the company's investment. He specifically praised incentives introduced under President Bola Tinubu's administration that support local vehicle assembly, noting that the current environment has never been more conducive for such ventures.
The entrance of E.F. Network positions the company as a direct competitor to established indigenous automakers like Innoson Motors, which recently launched its own electric vehicle lineup. This development signals the beginning of healthy competition in Nigeria's evolving electric mobility sector.
Shela Lin, Sales Manager at BCBL, expressed strong confidence in the partnership and reaffirmed her company's commitment to transferring technology and technical expertise to Nigerian engineers. This collaboration aims to build local capacity and support Nigeria's long-term vision for a self-reliant and sustainable automotive industry.
The company plans to expand its vehicle lineup to include electric pickup trucks and buses while simultaneously developing comprehensive after-sales service hubs and spare parts networks across the country.
