Tambuwal test-drives first Nigeria-assembled electric car in Sokoto
Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State has received the Kona Electric Car launched recently by the National Automotive Design and Development Council, (NADDC), in collaboration with the Stallion Group.
Gentechnews reported that on February 5, the NADDC, under the leadership of its Director-General, Jelani Aliyu, unveiled the first locally-made electric car, Hyundai Kona, in Abuja.
The electric car has a price tag of N24 million per one, with 5 years battery and manufacturers’ warranty, 100 percent electric, zero-emission and Hassle-free charging at home and workplace.
Sokoto State Governor Tambuwal, speaking after test-driving the vehicle at Government House lauded the initiative, describing it as a cultural revolution that would generally affect the lifestyles and life chances of Nigerians immensely.
Tambuwal posited that it is appealing that as global scientific achievements push towards zero use of fossil oil, Nigeria is having similar technological breakthroughs as the electric car that would revolutionize the way homes are made and kept, roads are built, and managed.
He urged the Federal Government to take appropriate measures towards exploiting the potentials of Sokoto State in order to support the diversification of the economy of the state.
Tambuwal disclosed that it was his first time driving an electric car, stressing that the technology is interesting and environment-friendly and also cheaper in terms of maintenance.
He described Aliyu as a great ambassador of the state and assured of his support to the NADDC in its bid to transform the country’s automotive sector.
He also lauded the NADDC director-general for participating in the trade fair, adding that his presence had attracted a lot of investment to the state and the sub-region.
The electric car, being part of items on exhibition at the ongoing National Trade Fair for Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states holding in Sokoto, was presented to the governor by the 55-year-old NADDC boss, Aliyu, a former America’s General Motors designer of 2004 Pontiac G6 and 2010 Chevrolet Volt.