In response to the increasing cost of petrol, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing has introduced a wide range of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, offering Nigerians a viable alternative. The unveiling of these CNG vehicles occurred at the company’s factory in Nnewi, Anambra State.
The vehicle lineup includes trucks, mini-buses, ambulances, long buses, SUVs, and more, catering to diverse transportation needs. Innoson’s initiative aims to provide Nigerians with accessible and cost-effective transportation options amid rising petrol prices.
At the unveiling event, Dr. Innocent Chukwuma, the CEO of IVM, explained that Innoson manufactures vehicles based on market demand, and the production of these buses was in response to the current demand. He mentioned that during the COVID-19 pandemic, they focused on manufacturing more ambulances and also highlighted that CNG vehicles offer a solution to overreliance on a limited variety of vehicles, providing greater diversity and choice.
He further explains that they manufacture CNG vehicles as a solution to address transportation needs. Their production includes CNG, LNG, and fuel options, allowing for flexibility based on availability in different areas. Furthermore, their factory also produces electric cars, biogas vehicles, and solar-powered vehicles, expanding the range of environmentally-friendly options for customers.
According to the Governor of Anambra State, represented by the Commissioner for Industry, Mr. Christian Udechukwu, he acknowledges that Innoson possesses renewable technologies such as CNG, LNG, and solar power, which can contribute to Nigeria’s mass transport system and other national solutions. The removal of subsidies has led to a significant increase in fuel prices, causing unrest among the Nigerian Labour Congress, trade unions, and the general public.
He notes that to mitigate the rising transportation costs, the government can introduce mass transit systems that utilize alternative energy sources alongside traditional fuel. By promoting options like gas and solar-powered vehicles, such as those offered by Innoson, there is a greater chance of achieving stable fuel prices through increased choices and competition.
The Head of Corporate Communications at IVM, Mr. Cornel Osigwe, explains that natural gas has a higher combustion rate than fuel, making it more environmentally friendly. He acknowledges that Nigerians are accustomed to petrol cars, but the abundance of natural gas provides sustainable alternatives for transportation needs.
Osigwe emphasizes the significance of transportation in economic development, as it enables the efficient movement of people and distribution of goods and services. Considering Nigeria’s current stage of development, he states that improved transportation options, such as Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing’s CNG-powered vehicles, are crucial in reducing the country’s heavy reliance on petrol and diesel for over 200 million individuals.
