In a stride toward promoting cleaner and more cost-effective transportation in Nigeria, Hyundai Nigeria, a subsidiary of Stallion Group, has launched a new range of locally assembled Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles.
This significant development is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (Pi-CNG), which aims to make CNG vehicles more accessible across the country.
The models introduced by Hyundai Nigeria include the Hyundai Grand i10, Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Creta, and Hyundai Tucson.
These vehicles, now assembled in Nigeria, are equipped with factory-fitted CNG kits that offer substantial savings on fuel costs and contribute to a more environmentally sustainable mode of transport. With this launch, Hyundai has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the federal government’s initiative to increase the availability of green transportation options.
Mr. Gaurav Vashisht, Head of Sales and Marketing at Hyundai Nigeria, described the unveiling of the CNG models as a significant contribution to the government’s goal of transitioning Nigeria to a more eco-friendly and cost-efficient transportation system.
According to Vashisht, Hyundai’s CNG vehicles are designed to cater to a broad range of customers, including fleet owners, retail buyers, and corporate companies seeking to reduce transportation costs while minimizing their environmental impact.
“CNG vehicles are not only more affordable to operate compared to petrol cars, but they are also much safer and better for the environment,” Vashisht said. “With factory-fitted CNG kits, our new models—Hyundai Grand i10, Accent, Creta, and Tucson—are tropicalized for Nigerian roads and climate, ensuring reliability and longevity.”
He added that these vehicles are targeted at a wide array of potential buyers, from individual customers looking for affordable cars to large corporations seeking fleet solutions. The CNG Grand i10, for example, is tailored for first-time car buyers and fleet owners who prioritize low ownership costs and reliability.
Benefits of CNG-Powered Vehicles
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles have become increasingly popular worldwide due to their lower carbon emissions and reduced fuel costs compared to traditional petrol or diesel-powered vehicles.
Hyundai Nigeria’s locally assembled CNG models offer numerous advantages for Nigerian car buyers. With petrol prices nearing N1,000 per litre, CNG provides a much more economical alternative, costing as little as N300 per litre.
In addition to the cost benefits, CNG vehicles emit significantly less carbon dioxide and other pollutants, making them a more environmentally friendly option. This is particularly important as Nigeria strives to meet international environmental standards and reduce its carbon footprint.
The locally assembled Hyundai CNG models come with factory-fitted, bulletproof CNG cylinders that are safer and more space-efficient than the traditional retrofitted CNG systems found in many converted vehicles. Vashisht emphasized the safety features of Hyundai’s CNG vehicles, highlighting the robust engineering that prioritizes both driver and passenger security.
“For buyers who may not have the ability to make full payment upfront, we have introduced auto finance options to make it easier for Nigerians to access these cost-saving vehicles,” Vashisht added.
“This means more Nigerians can take advantage of the benefits of CNG-powered cars without straining their finances.”
Locally Assembled Models: Hyundai Grand i10, Accent, Creta, and Tucson
The four CNG models unveiled by Hyundai: Grand i10, Accent, Creta, and Tucson cater to different customer needs and preferences, from compact city cars to larger SUVs. Each model is equipped with the latest safety and performance features, ensuring reliability and ease of use for all buyers.
- Hyundai Grand i10: A popular choice for first-time car buyers and fleet owners, the Grand i10 is powered by a multi-point injection engine mated to an automatic transmission. It is equipped with essential safety features, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Rear Parking Assist System (RPAS), and dual airbags, making it a great choice for city driving. With its factory-fitted CNG system, the Grand i10 ensures greater fuel efficiency and lower running costs.
- Hyundai Accent: Known for its strong body structure and reliability, the Hyundai Accent features a 1.5 MPi engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It offers a range of safety features, including a rear-view camera, six airbags, ABS, and safety windows. The Accent’s factory-fitted CNG kit makes it a fuel-efficient choice for individuals and corporate buyers alike.
- Hyundai Creta: A compact crossover, the Hyundai Creta is designed for customers seeking a combination of style, performance, and safety. It features a smart engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing for improved performance and fuel economy. The Creta comes with advanced safety features, including Rear Parking Sensors, a six-airbag system, Cruise Control, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. This versatile SUV is now available with a factory-fitted CNG system, offering buyers a more economical and environmentally friendly option.
- Hyundai Tucson: The Tucson is Hyundai’s premium SUV offering in the CNG lineup, featuring a sophisticated design and high-end performance. With its seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission and smart engine, the Tucson provides a smooth and powerful driving experience. The factory-fitted CNG kit ensures that owners can enjoy the benefits of luxury driving without the high fuel costs associated with traditional petrol-powered SUVs.
Government’s Push for CNG Adoption
In 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration launched the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (Pi-CNG), a program aimed at promoting the adoption of CNG vehicles in Nigeria. The initiative seeks to encourage automakers to assemble and sell factory-fitted CNG vehicles domestically to reduce dependence on imported used cars and promote cleaner energy solutions.
The Pi-CNG initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change by reducing emissions. By encouraging automakers like Hyundai to produce CNG vehicles locally, the government aims to make environmentally friendly transportation more accessible to Nigerians.
Hyundai’s locally assembled CNG vehicles are expected to play a crucial role in this transition, offering an affordable, reliable, and sustainable alternative to petrol-powered cars.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Hyundai Nigeria is backing its newly launched CNG vehicles with a comprehensive three-year unlimited mileage warranty. This warranty covers all major components, providing buyers with peace of mind as they transition to CNG-powered vehicles.
Additionally, Hyundai’s partnership with Stallion Group ensures that buyers have access to over 30 years of nationwide after-sales support through an extensive service network.
Vashisht highlighted that this warranty and support system sets Hyundai apart from other automakers in Nigeria, particularly in the CNG market. “No other modern luxury brand in Nigeria offers this level of warranty and after-sales support for CNG vehicles,” he said.
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