Nord Automobiles Limited has entered into Nigeria’s electric vehicle market, unveiling plans to create jobs and expand local manufacturing in the country’s automotive sector.
With the launch of its new electric vehicle subsidiary, Tavet Motion, a new subsidiary focused on EVs, and the unveiling of three new models, Luto, Garent, and Vant, Nord aims to strengthen local manufacturing and generate employment opportunities across Nigeria.
Oluwatobi Ajayi, Nord’s chief executive officer, said that Tavet is aimed at advancing mobility in Africa and engaging the continent in the global electric vehicle sector.
“Welcome to the future of mobility. Tavet is about innovation, sustainability, and progress. Nord gave birth to Tavet, and together, we’ll ensure Africa isn’t left behind in the electric revolution.
“Tavet’s vision went beyond vehicle sales. We’re not just selling cars. We’re building an entire EV ecosystem, from charging stations to battery health programmes and renewable energy integration,” Ajayi said.
Industry watchers say the launch could redefine Nigeria’s auto sector, long hampered by fuel price instability and dependence on imports, and by assembling locally and exploring Nigeria’s emerging lithium reserves, Tavet is expected to create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, research, and renewable energy support services.
Ajayi also hinted at partnerships with renewable energy firms to deploy solar-powered fast chargers nationwide, aligning with Nigeria’s clean energy transition goals and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“Tavet is proof that technology, when localised, can transform lives. Nord is proudly Nigerian, and Tavet will redefine what it means to build world-class vehicles in Africa.
“Analysts project Tavet could capture up to 15 percent of Nigeria’s emerging EV market within two years, positioning the country as West Africa’s leading hub for electric mobility,” he stated.
According to the company, the three models, Luto, a compact urban sedan; Garent, a luxury EV; and Vant, a logistics van, under Tavet Motion, are all assembled in Nigeria and designed for African roads.
Luto is viewed as Nigeria’s first compact electric city vehicle designed for young professionals, students and those tired of high fuel price and traffic stress.
The four-door electric vehicle seats four passengers and is designed for everyday urban mobility. Compact and agile, it can be parked in tight spaces and charged at home, the office, or public charging stations.
The vehicle offers a range of up to 200 km per charge, a peak power of 20 kW, and a top speed of 100 km/h. Features include electric steering, power windows, a reverse camera, ABS, hill-start assist, and other standard equipment.
The Garent is Tavet’s flagship electric sedan, positioned to compete with international EVs in technology and performance.
It features a coupe-inspired liftback design with an optional scissor-style window, and comes equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
The Vant is Nigeria’s first practical electric logistics van, designed for delivery businesses, e-commerce platforms, and fleet operators. Fast-charging capability allows the fleet to operate with minimal downtime.
With a range of 305 km per charge, a 41.88 kWh battery, and 20–80 percent charging in 45 minutes, the Vant offers a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative to diesel-powered vans. It can carry a payload of up to 1,440 kg and has a cargo volume of 2.8 m³.
Standard features include ABS, hill-start assist, a reverse camera, LCD control screen, GPS navigation, air conditioning, and a heater.
Tavet offers EVs ranging from N16 million for entry-level models to N32 million for premium versions, appealing to personal and commercial users.
