The Nation Newspaper

Category: Motoring

  • Stallion holds roadshow for new product

    Stallion holds roadshow for new product

    By Tajudeen Adebajo

    Stallion has begun a 5,000- kilometre roadshow to showcase its new product to Nigerians.

    It comprises a convoy of five tricycles, otherwise called Keke,that will cover 28 cities in 16 states nationwide.

    The tricycles were being led by a branded truck for customer engagement and market activation.

    It kicked off at the Stallion Bajaj Showroom at Ijesha, Lagos, last week.

    According to the company, the rally aims to attest to the strength of Bajaj Keke on the roads.

    The team is also scheduled to visit identified cultural sites in a comprehensive exercise designed to prove that ‘’Bajaj drives faster and lasts longer’’.

    Stallion Auto Keke Ltd Managing Director Manish Rohtagi, said Bajaj is the pioneer Keke brand known for its durability, speed and overall performance.

    He assured that the new distributorship would bring immense value to the dealers, fleet owners, riders and consumers, stressing that Stallion’s advantage lies in its de-centalised operation and quicker decision-making, which will help drive operating efficiency.

    READ ALSO: Stallion Group opens ‘multi-brand auto sales portal’ for customers

    “It will bring differentiated customer service, and ease of spare part availability through its existing footprints in the auto industry,” he said.

    Rohtagi plans were underway to engage more dealers across the country and provide first-class after-sales support aimed at quick service within four hours, rider training schools and rider and mechanic empowerment programmes.

    Stallion Bajaj boasts a network of sales and service outlets in 96 locations spread across Nigeria and plans to add 30 more exclusive and MFS (multi franchisee services) outlets by the end of 2020, taking the count to 126. The areas of focus would be Ilorin, Yola, Warri, Benin, Yenagoa, Sokoto, Kebbi, Lokoja and Bauchi.

    Stallion Group Marketing Head Arpita Luthra, said Stallion Auto Keke Limited would invest significantly in improving stakeholders’ interest, business and livelihood.

    “Be it landmark consumer-connect campaigns like the Stallion Bajaj Keke rally doing the durability drive of 5000 kilometres and touching 28 cities, or rider-training facilities, or scholarship programmes for the Keke riders and mechanics, the alliance of Stallion and Bajaj will enable progress, improve lives and dominate the market,“ she said.

  • Kia unveils ‘Air Purifier anti-virus’ Sonet

    Kia unveils ‘Air Purifier anti-virus’ Sonet

    The all-new Sonet incorporates Kia’s DNA of emotive styling along with a premium and youthful appeal to create a strong road presence. Displaying a dynamic stance in a confident, compact body, the Sonet showcases a  range of styling attributes to  make it stand apart, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    The emergence of coronavirus pandemic has forced auto manufacturers to return to the drawing board and come up with concept that would attract auto lovers with their products.

    Kia Motors Corporation, one of the world’s largest automakers, is taking a giant step from building vehicles that would ensure road safety to the ones that would safeguard healthcare.

    With the introduction of Kia Sonet, the firm is assuring its clients worldwide of a new dawn in the automobile world.

    Kia Sonet is equipped with Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus protection to further promote the safety of drivers and their loved ones.

    This feature sets the Sonet apart in its segment and once again sets a new benchmark in its category. The new Smart Pure Air Purifier in Sonet has a two-level purification system. The pollutant-cleansing HEPA filter incorporates N29 which uses fiber made from nano-ionic bonding technology of copper sulphide, to remove pollutants and bacteria from the cabin.

    The second level of filtration is achieved through UVC LED, scientifically proven to kill bacteria and viruses. The system not only effectively cleans out pollutants from the cabin, but also kills bacteria and viruses as it cleans the air.

    Manufactured at Kia’s state-of-the-art production facility at Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, the Sonet is Kia’s all-new smart urban compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), and the brand’s latest made-in-India global product after the Seltos. The new Sonet marks Kia Motors’ entry into the burgeoning compact SUV segment, and sets new benchmarks with its first-in-class features.

    Features

    • Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus protection
    • Wireless smartphone charger
    • Audio performance for concert
    • Electronic Stability Control
    • Six airbags
    • Front and rear parking sensors
    • Projector fog lamps
    • Highline tyre pressure monitoring system
    • Auto headlamps

    The world premiere of the production-ready model follows the global unveiling of the Sonet concept at the Delhi Auto Expo in February. Sales of the new car will commence soon in India, with sales in many of Kia’s global markets due to follow.

    Kia Motors Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Ho Sung Song, said Kia Motors continues to be recognised globally through products which offer exquisite design and world-class quality, along with ‘The Power to Surprise’.

    According to Song, everything about the all-new Sonet is uniquely Kia and is sure to delight both drivers and passengers.

    He said: “With its aggressive and modern design language, fun-to-drive dynamics, and Kia’s latest high-tech features, the Sonet puts an exclamation point on our ambition to make Kia the brand of choice, especially among millennial and Gen Z consumers. The Sonet fills a need in the growing SUV market, in India and further afield, and will attract a wider number of consumers to the Kia brand.”

    Kia Motors India Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kookhyun Shim, said: “We are extremely excited to introduce the Sonet, which is made in India for the world. After the success of the Seltos and Carnival, we are confident that Kia will revolutionise yet another market segment in India with the Sonet by addressing the unmet needs and aspirations of customers. The Kia Sonet is designed and developed to deliver a best-in-class experience in quality, design, technology, features and drivability to attract a wide spectrum of customers across segments. The Sonet will be produced at our state-of-the-art Anantapur plant to Kia’s exacting global standards, and we are sure it will be received with enthusiasm by new customers and existing fans of the brand alike.”

    The Sonet aims to delight occupants inside. To create a concert-like ambience, the Sonet is the only vehicle in its category to offer audio performance from BOSE, with a premium seven-speaker system with sub-woofer. Other mood enhancers include the LED Sound Mood Lighting, introducing a level of personalisation unique to this segment, as well as a wireless smartphone charger with cooling function, exclusive to the Sonet.

    Taking centre stage on the Sonet’s dashboard is the largest-in-segment 10.25-inch (26.03 cm) HD touchscreen with infotainment and navigation system – a display that confirms Kia’s premium positioning in the compact SUV segment. Additionally, the 4.2-inch (10.66 cm) instrument cluster presents important information to the driver in vivid colour and clarity, such as turn-by-turn navigation instructions, Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and drive mode and traction mode selection.

    READ ALSO: Kia Motors to build manufacturing plant in India

    Inside, the Sonet is designed around the driver, with a well laid-out, easy-to-use connected infotainment and cluster interface, and high quality materials all around. Despite compact exterior dimensions, the interior of the Sonet offers ample, ergonomic space for all passengers.

    The Sonet will be offered with multiple powertrain options to suit virtually all requirements in this segment. A choice of two gasoline engines – a versatile Smartstream 1.2-liter four-cylinder and powerful one T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) – and an efficient 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine are available with a choice of five transmissions. This includes five- and six-speed manuals, an intuitive seven-speed DCT six-speed automatic, and Kia’s revolutionary new six-speed Smartstream intelligent manual transmission (iMT). The latter is a technological breakthrough from Kia, offering fatigue-free driving thanks to the absence of a clutch pedal, yet the same driver control as a conventional manual transmission. For the first time in this segment, the Sonet also offers its 1.5-litre diesel engine with the six-speed automatic transmission.

    In keeping with Kia’s motto of ‘The Power to Surprise’, the Sonet offers a surprisingly wide range of powertrain choices in its class. With a choice of three engines and five transmissions, there is an engine-transmission combination for virtually every customer need in this segment. Two petrol engines – a versatile Smartstream 1.2-litre four-cylinder and powerful 1.0 T-GDi – and an efficient 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine are offered.

    The 1.5-liter diesel engine is offered with a six-speed manual, and, uniquely in in its segment, with a six-speed automatic transmission, an unmet need in this segment to-date. Customers can enjoy the long-legged cruising ability of a diesel engine with the comfort and convenience of an automatic transmission.

    The Sonet is equipped with this revolutionary gearbox, offering a balance between control and convenience.

  • INNOSON: we use 60 % local components

    INNOSON: we use 60 % local components

    From Emma Elekwa, Onitsha

     

    Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM) uses 60 percent of locally manufactured components in producing its vehicles, the Chairman, Chief Innocent Chukwuma has said

    He said his firm produced vehicles according to customers’ demands.

    Chukwuma, who  spoke in Uru Umudim Nnewi, Anambra State while hosting the Chairman/CEO of Oilserv Group of Companies,  Emeka Okwuosa, said: “We make all the carcass of all our vehicles here, but we import some engines and electrical and body parts, but produce all the plastic parts here.

    “We have produced many new vehicles according to the demands of the customers and what they need those vehicles for,” adding: “Even if they need what we do not have, we can make the mould and produce their request and specifications. That is why we are a vehicle manufacturing company, not assembling company.”

    Earlier, Okwuosa said his firm was committing over N600 million to procure vehicles from Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing company to support local content, urging the Federal Government to invest massively to improve infrastructure in Nigeria.

    He stressed the need for the federal government to encourage industries and roll out good policies that would enable businesses to thrive.

    “I am a believer in private enterprise. I do not believe the government should go into building and managing industries or be in engineering, but government should rather articulate and provide the capacity and the enabling environment that would make sure that local industries survive.

    “I believe that we should develop local capacity, capacity building not just in terns of infrastructure, but human capacity development which should start from education to training.

    “If that is carefully and constantly carried out over a period of time in a well structured manner, Nigeria would develop more than we could imagine because we have people that are capable of thinking and working hard,” he added.

     

     

  • Volkswagen opens facility in Ghana

    Volkswagen opens facility in Ghana

    By Tajudeen Adebanjo

     

    Volkswagen has extended its market in Sub-Saharan Africa with the opening of a vehicle assembly facility in Accra, Ghana.

    Ghana becomes the fifth Volkswagen assembly location in Sub-Saharan Africa; the other locations are in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Rwanda.

    Universal Motors Limited, a licensed Volkswagen importer since 2005, has been awarded the contract for the initial phase of the project. The Universal Motors facility in Accra has an installed capacity to assembly 5, 000 units per annum. The models to be assembled using Semi Knocked Down (SKD) assembly kits are Tiguan, Teramont, Passat, Polo and Amarok.

    The event to announce Volkswagen’s investment and the unveiling of the first vehicle assembled in Ghana was attended by Ghana President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, and cabinet ministers.

    The opening of the facility is the realisation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Volkswagen signed with Ghana in the presence of the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, nearly two years ago.

    Ghana has also fulfilled its MoU by developing a comprehensive Automotive Industry Policy with the announcement of the Ghana Automotive Development Policy (GADP).

    GADP has paved the way for Volkswagen to solidify its commitment in Ghana with the initial investment for the first phase of its long term vehicle assembly plans. Volkswagen thereby is committed to helping Ghana to develop a modern automotive industry as part of the country’s industrial transformation agenda.

    At the same time, the establishment of Volkswagen Ghana was announced, which is the first automotive company to be registered under GADP. Volkswagen Ghana is a 100 per cent subsidiary of Volkswagen. It will be responsible for the import of the SKD kits and Fully Built Units (FBU). Jeffrey J. Oppong Peprah has been appointed as the CEO of Volkswagen Ghana.

    Volkswagen is strengthening the regions and focusing on new up-and-coming markets as part of its TRANSFORM 2025+ brand strategy. The Sub-Saharan region plays an increasingly important role. Although the African automotive market is comparatively small today, the Sub-Saharan region has the potential to become an automotive growth market of the future.

     

  • Experience leg-door opening innovation with Pajero Sport

    Experience leg-door opening innovation with Pajero Sport

    For auto lovers seeking simplicity, the basic range of features of the fourth generation Mitsubishi Pajero Sport SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) is more appealing to staunch traditionalists, but as a flagship vehicle it leaves much to be desired. The latest SUV had a launch on Sallah day, the first of its kind in the country’s COVID-19 era. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO witnessed the virtual launch.

     

    Massilia Motors, the sole distributor of Mitsubishi Motors in Nigeria, has  unveiled the fourth generation Mitsubishi Pajero Sport SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) in a first of its kind virtual car launch in the country.

    The event was witnessed on YouTube by customers and other stakeholders who were shown the salient features of the 2020 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport SUV, and also taken on a 360° virtual tour, followed by a musical session by Dj Neptunes.

    Managing Director of Massilia Motors/Country Delegate of CFAO Nigeria, Mr. Thomas Pelletier stated that the new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is tough, reliable, and comfortable.

    According to the MD, “The 2020 Pajero Sport combines off-road performance and luxury on-road comfort. It is a proper 4×4 that I have had the opportunity to experience here (Nigeria) during the rainy season. It has a comfortable suspension and a powerful engine. It is simply rugged and smooth.”

    Pajero interior
    Pajero interior

    The MD added that Massilia Motors, in sustaining its tradition of quality after-sales services, has unveiled a Service plan, if broken down, would cost only N12,500 monthly for Mitsubishi customers.

    The new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is a blend of innovation and advanced technology bound to be welcomed by the industry and eventual owners.

    During the launch, the General Manager, Sales of Massilia Motors, Mr. Olatunji Itiola took the event host, Bolanle Olukanni (a celebrity TV host) on a tour of the new SUV. He demonstrated how to open the tailgate (booth) automatically without using his hands.

    He said: “Even when both hands are engaged with shopping bags, you only need a movement of your foot under the rear bumper to open it.’’

    Also coming as an irresistible new feature is the Smartphone-Linked Display Audio (SLDA). This infotainment feature is easier to see with its eight-inch display screen. The SLDA enables the driver to link his phone to the car and have access to his information, including satellite navigation i.e. Google maps on touchscreen via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay apps.

    Additional features of the new generation Pajero Sport include an eight-inch LCD coloured meter cluster, an upgrade of the Electronic Parking Brake, now coming with the Auto Hold function, the Forward Collision Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning, etc. The three-litre V6 petrol engine comes with a remarkable fuel economy and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

    The new Mitsubishi Pajero Sport is an All-Terrain champion, just as a roof spoiler and shark fin antenna have also been added, with a variety of colours to choose from.

     

  • Porsche delivers 116,964 vehicles in half-year

    Porsche delivers 116,964 vehicles in half-year

    By Tajudeen Adebanjo

    In the first six months of the year, Porsche delivered a total of 116,964 cars to customers worldwide. The outbreak of COVID-19 and the resulting closures of Porsche Centres over a period of several weeks resulted in a 12 per cent decline in new car deliveries compared to the same period last year. The Cayenne was the most popular model with a total of 39,245 units sold, followed by 34,430 Macan vehicles. With 16,919 deliveries representing an increase of two per cent, the iconic 911 sports car enjoyed great popularity. The Taycan likewise continues to be well received by customers: Porsche delivered 4,480 units in the first half of the year within the context of a staggered market launch.

    A relatively positive trend is evident in the markets of Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Here, Porsche supplied a total of 55,550 cars to customers in the first half of 2020. With 39,603 deliveries, China remains the sports car manufacturer’s largest single market in terms of volume. In addition, Korea and Japan were strong markets in the region with sales of 4,242 and 3,675 units respectively, each showing double-digit growth rates over the previous year. 32,312 cars were delivered to European customers, while in the US, 24,186 vehicles were handed over to customers between January and June.

    Read Also: Mercedes-Benz most luxurious SUV in Nigeria market

    Member of the Executive Board for Sales and Marketing at Porsche AG Detlev von Platen said: “We see positive tendencies, although we continued to feel the effects of the coronavirus crisis in the second quarter, especially in the United States and Europe. A crucial factor here was the month of April, when almost all Porsche Centres in these markets were still closed.

    “In addition, we enjoyed a very strong second quarter in 2019 as the comparative period. We remain confident, however, and are full of energy as we tackle the challenges in the second half of the year. The continuing positive development in China and other Asian markets will help us here, too.”

    According to von Platen, the situation in Europe has been easing since May, even though things are not yet entirely back to normal.

  • Mercedes-Benz most luxurious SUV in Nigeria market

    Mercedes-Benz most luxurious SUV in Nigeria market

    Since it was first introduced in 2006 as the GL, the Mercedes-Benz GLS has dominated markets for large sized luxury Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs). This new generation of the GLS pushes the bar even higher, living to its title as the S-Class of SUVs, writes TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    The first impression of the GLS’s interior is quite overwhelming, with ample space for seven people. Each seat boasts the ultimate in comfort and a digital infotainment offering, the likes of which have never been seen in a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV).

    The backrests of the second and third seat rows can be folded down individually or together at the push of a button to produce a load compartment with a capacity of up to 2400 litres. The rear end can be lowered to facilitate loading, and the tailgate can be opened and closed by a mere movement of your foot.

    These are part of the features of the new Mercedes-Benz GLS. The GLS is Mercedes-Benz’s largest and most luxurious SUV. It offers more of everything: more space, more comfort and indeed more luxury. The all-new GLS makes its debut in showrooms in Nigeria, courtesy of Weststar Associates Limited, Authorised General Distributor of Mercedes-Benz.

    Speaking on the all-new GLS, Chief Executive Officer of Weststar Associates Limited Mr. Mirko Plath, described the GLS as a superstar in the SUV segment.

    “The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a superstar in the SUV segment, and we are proud to unveil the 2020 edition to our customers here in Nigeria. With highlights like EQ Boost, the updated 4MATIC all-wheel drive and Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX). We are certainly in for a treat,” Plath said.

    The multimillion Naira GLS stands out with highlights like EQ Boost, an all-new 4MATIC that ensures great agility on the road and strong performance off the beaten track, and key comfort features like; the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), electrically adjustable seats throughout as standard and a generous amount of space especially in the second row.

    The exterior of the all-new GLS is luxurious and larger than life. It comes with a more superior presence in comparison to its predecessor, thanks to a larger wheelbase at 3135 mm. The impressive proportions and the long bonnet also underscore the power and presence of the new GLS.The nearly upright radiator grille, the prominent chromed skid plate, and the bonnet with two power domes are key features of the unique exterior design. Multibeam LED headlamps come as standard with a total of 112 LEDs per headlamp in the new GLS. The new GLS also comes with up to 23-inch wheels as well as a refined selection of rim designs. The optional panoramic sliding sunroof gives a fascinating sense of freedom as it bathes the interior in a pleasantly bright ambience.

    Inside the all-new GLS elegant aesthetics are highlighted with leather appointments as standard. The instrument cluster and media display (2 x 12.3-inch as standard), are housed behind a shared continuous glass surface to form a large free-standing screen. There is a touchpad in the centre console as a further means of controlling many vehicle functions. The ambient lighting impressively illuminates the dashboard, with optical fibers coursing throughout the cockpit. The four rectangular air vents are prominently embedded in the trim element. As a typical feature of off-roaders, there are two prominent grab handles on the centre console trimmed with ARTICO man-made leather. There is also a new sport steering wheel with a striking, sculptured spoke design.

    The longer wheelbase of the new GLS means there’s more space, especially in the second seat row, which can furthermore be electrically adjusted front and back by 10 cm. There is more leg room in both the second and third seat rows. The Easy-Entry function, makes it easy to get into and out of the two individual seats in the third row. The third row has fully fledged seats that are suitable for people up to 1.94 m tall. All rear seats can be folded separately or at the same time with the single touch of a button to create a level loading area in the boot of the GLS with a capacity of up to 2400 litres.

    Another key highlight in the all-new GLS is the latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience, or MBUX as it’s most commonly described is an advanced multimedia infotainment system that’s fitted to several of the German premium manufacturers’ latest models.

    As with other modern infotainment systems, MBUX can control various vehicle settings, including everything from seat positions, ambient lighting setting to driving modes. It also controls in-car entertainment, your mobile phone calls, contacts and diary, plus navigation if you have that option.

    Some of the upgrades in the new MBUX system include the MBUX Interior Assistant: intuitive support, Augmented reality: additional navigation assistance, and a further advanced “Hey Mercedes” voice control system.

    The high standards of the new Mercedes-Benz GLS are evident in its engine line up. The base line GLS 450 features a new electrified in-line six-cylinder petrol engine with 48-volt on-board electrical system and integrated starter-generator. This engine has a displacement of about four litres and produces an output of 270 kW (367 hp) and 500 Nm of torque, with another 250 Nm of torque and 16 kW/22 hp of additional output temporarily on tap via EQ Boost. In all variants of the new GLS, power is transmitted by the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. The broad ratio spread of gears one to nine allows a clearly perceptible reduction in engine speed and is a decisive factor behind the high level of energy efficiency and ride comfort.

    All versions of the new GLS are for the first time equipped with fully variable all-wheel drive (torque on demand, TonD), which regulates the torque split between the front and rear axle from 0-100 % depending on the selected drive mode. With the optional Off-Road Engineering Package, a likewise fully variable all-wheel-drive system with low and high range is available. This makes the GLS more off-road capable than ever.

  • Sadiq Geidam sets agenda for car dealership

    Sadiq Geidam sets agenda for car dealership

    Our Reporter

    Our ideas about leadership and multitasking are diametrically opposed to the traditional concept of leadership. One can be a leader while still pursuing their ambitions to be more competitive. A great leader not only aspires to be a leader but also to make a difference in an unconventional environment by working hard to achieve set objectives.

    Sadiq Saminu Geidam is an ardent brand owner and the Chief Executive Officer of AbujaCar Properties and Automobile Limited. Therefore, he possesses management abilities that are comparable to those of a basic leader. His goals are to empower and enrich people of all races and backgrounds, resulting in a new generation of ready-made intellectuals.

    However, Sadiq Geidam was born and raised in Nigeria’s capital; Abuja, and he is a descendant of Geidam Local Government, Yobe State, Nigeria. He graduated from Alhikmah University, Ilorin with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. He attended Nurul Bayan International Academy.

    Consequently, his undergraduate days were somewhat a basis for learning, which became possible because he seized education. and used dedication, excellence, and ambition, as a motivator to achieve more.

    READ ALSO: How Sadiq Geidam’s AbujaCar properties is revolutionalising luxury car ownership

    However, Sadiq Geidam has successfully developed a conducive work environment by using digital media as a means of reaching a large market. Hence he has strategically upheld the slogan of being uniquely known in an innovative digital space, as an automobile dealer, by using accessible resources to promote a well-deserving result.

    He goes on to say that being professional and digitally savvy in terms of reaching customers, is a new way to achieve set objectives in a competitive market.

    Furthermore, Sadiq is passionate about cars and customer interaction, so he strives to maintain professional communication skills when it comes to his company. He also makes certain that everybody has their own property.

    To summarize, the young man likes to fly, go to the gym, and read.

  • Why billionaires are craving for Rolls-Royce Cullinan

    Why billionaires are craving for Rolls-Royce Cullinan

    Tajudeen Adebanjo

     

    THE recent arrest of a social media celebrity, Ramon Olorunwa Abass (aka Hushpuppi) by the Dubai Police has thrown up many issues that surrounded the suspected fraudster.

    Hushpuppi’s flambouyant lifestyle has come under scrutiny as many want to know what he was doing with the millions of dollars in his kitty.

    Among the fleet of luxury vehicles in his garage, Rolls-Royce Cullinan stands out.

    He is among the few people that bought the Cullinan not long after its unveiling by the automaker.

    Rolls-Royce Cullinan is the first Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) Rolls-Royce has ever produced, named after the world’s largest uncut diamond. It is an absolutely vast 4×4 and one of the most luxurious cars of any kind. It is certainly a huge departure from the luxury British carmaker, which has a long history of producing sumptuous saloons.

    In March last year, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Owuland, Dr Bolu Akin-Olugbade, took delivery of the majestic Rolls Royce Cullinan.

    Through Coscharis Motors, the auto giant marketing Roll Royce vehicles in the country, Prince Akin-Olugbade’s delivery in Lagos was used by the sole representative of the auto manufacturer to launch Cullinan in Nigeria.The Rolls-Royce Cullinan goes for N130 million.

    The Cullinan SUV looks a little like a Rolls-Royce Phantom that’s trapped inside a particularly unflattering hall of mirrors. No doubt, it is  one of the most imposing objects to spot on the road, but its enormous grille, flat sides and boxy roofline won’t appeal to everyone.

    A few contrasting silver trims on the doors, around the windows and on the wings help to disguise its colossal silhouette, but it doesn’t quite hide its size as elegantly as a Bentley Bentayga. The Mercedes G-Class pulls off the deliberately boxy look much more convincingly, too.

    The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is also popular in India. The first Indian to have the car is Mukesh Ambani.

    According to Wikipedia, Mukesh Dhirubhai Ambani, born on April 19, 1957, is an Indian billionaire business magnate, and the chairman, managing director, and largest shareholder of Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL), a Fortune Global 500 company and India’s most valuable company by market value.

    Ambani is the richest man in Asia with a net worth of $72billion.

    Rolls-Royce Cullinan buyers will probably never venture off-road in their new cars, but should they ever get (very) lost on the way to Knightsbridge, there are some contrasting silver protectors that’ll keep the bottom edges of its expensive paintwork mostly scratch-free.

    The buyers can choose to fit the Cullinan with either what Rolls-Royce calls Lounge or Individual seats. The former is the most practical option and comes with three rear seats that can be folded down should one ever need to carry more than the Cullinan’s 560-litre boot (600 litres with the parcel shelf removed) can manage. The car’s huge size should mean there’ll be ample head, leg and shoulder room for three large adults to sit very comfortably indeed.

    The individual rear seat option replaces the central rear seat with a drinks cabinet – complete with Rolls Royce whisky glasses, Champagne flutes and a fridge.

    The Cullinan is the first Rolls-Royce to come fitted with a touchscreen infotainment system – although one can still control it using the rotary dial on the centre console like BMW’s iDrive. Through this, one can tweak the sat-nav, adjust the set-up of the standard air suspension and access a live feed from the panoramic surround-view camera system.

    The Rolls-Royce Cullinan comes with just one engine – a 6.75-litre V12 that produces 571hp and drives all four wheels through an automatic gearbox. That ensures the Cullinan sprints to 60mph from a standstill in five seconds and will go on to an electronically limited 155mph.

    Rolls-Royce has said the car comes with four-wheel steering to make it as manoeuvrable as possible around town and air suspension to isolate you and your passengers’ backsides from the unpleasant thud of large potholes.

    Also standards are selectable off-road driving modes that alter the engine, suspension and gearbox settings to help the Rolls-Royce Cullinan deals more effectively with sandy, snow-covered and gravel-strewn surfaces. It will also wade through more than half a metre of water without risking any damage to your handmade Italian leather shoes.

     

     

     

  • Stallion Group opens ‘multi-brand auto sales portal’ for customers

    Stallion Group opens ‘multi-brand auto sales portal’ for customers

    Tajudeen Adebanjo

    Stallion Group Nigeria has launched a one-stop-for-all vehicle activities portal for its customers.

    Tagged, Stallion Africar Multi-brand Auto sales Portal, the company said it was aimed at maximising consumer loyalty across the country.

    According to Stallion Group General Manager, Marketing, Arpita Roy Luthra, the auto giant believed that a sizable business will be brought in through digital initiatives as consumers are still skeptical of stepping into showrooms to scout for their car of dreams.

    She said: “Stallion Africar will help meet customer expectations during the COVID era. The portal – www.stallionafricar.com – will also provide the customers with tools to make an informed decision on the choice of car in their budget and a virtual relationship, manager to guide them through the chat functionality.

    “It  offers an opportunity to do cross-selling and upselling and reduce their dependence on driving walk-in traffic to the point of sale. The simple design of Stallion Africar enables the consumer to take a decision on buying a new car and servicing their existing car. It’s soon adding the feature of buying a preowned car where the consumer can get their old car evaluated and uploaded to get the best deal and exchange it for a new.”

    The portal navigates through each of the top selling auto brands of Hyundai, Honda, Nissan, Porsche, and Changan. Each brand’s highlight model is displayed on the home page with the portal navigating to a detailed page containing specification, price and the consumer’s ability to book a test drive for their favourite car just at the push of a button. The car is brought in to customer’s home or workplace keeping the safety and hygiene measures in mind for the test drive to conform with social distancing guidelines to the maximum.

    She added that the portal allows customers access to compare features, aesthetics and price across major brands and models to arrive at the best decision. The relationship does not end at buying the ideal car.