Lanre Shittu Motors, a prominent indigenous automaker, has unveiled its new line of fully compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered buses, marking a significant development in Nigeria’s public transportation sector.
The new CNG buses are being assembled at Lanre Shittu Motors’ Amuwo Odofin assembly plant in Lagos. Taiwo Shittu, the company’s Managing Director, announced the launch on Monday, revealing that the first phase will see the introduction of 100 units of the buses.
There are two specifications: a 31-seater bus for intra-airport shuttles and a 54-seater city bus with space for 25 standing passengers.
“We are the first to offer full CNG vehicles for sale in Nigeria,” Taiwo Shittu stated. “Other options in the market are either converted engines or hybrid vehicles. Our buses are factory-fitted with CNG technology, ensuring efficiency and reliability.”
Recently, the Federal Government launched an initiative to reduce the cost of public transportation and address the impact of recent fuel subsidy removals. The introduction of CNG buses is expected to significantly cut operational costs compared to diesel-powered buses.
“The city bus is equipped with seven CNG cylinders and can travel between 450 and 500 kilometers on a single charge,” Shittu added. “Similarly, the airport shuttle bus, also with seven cylinders, offers ample space for luggage and wheelchairs.”
One of the key benefits of CNG buses highlighted by Lanre Shittu Motors is the substantial reduction in operating costs.
“CNG is priced at N200-N230 per kilogram, whereas diesel costs between N1,200 and N1,400 per liter,” Shittu explained. “This represents a 70 percent reduction in fuel costs. Moreover, CNG prevents the risk of fuel siphoning, which can be a problem with diesel.”
In addition to cost savings, CNG buses are seen as a cleaner alternative to diesel, contributing to reduced air pollution. The buses also come with modern amenities such as air-conditioning, viewing screens, and charging stations for electronic devices.
Lanre Shittu Motors says it is not only focusing on the production of CNG buses but is also addressing the logistical challenge of refueling. The company plans to install mobile CNG refilling stations across various locations, particularly for large fleet buyers.
Lukman Shittu, Deputy Managing Director of the company, shared the company’s commitment to expanding CNG infrastructure. “We are prepared to deploy mobile CNG stations wherever they are needed,” he said. “This flexibility will help facilitate the widespread adoption of CNG technology.”
In addition, Lanre Shittu Motors is collaborating with technical partners to train its workforce and other stakeholders in CNG technology.
The training is said to be part of a broader effort to ensure that both the company’s staff and external technicians are well-equipped to handle the new technology.
“We have already started training programs with our technical partners and are planning sessions in Ekiti State and other regions,” Lukman Shittu said. “Our goal is to support the government’s CNG initiative by providing not only buses but also the necessary infrastructure and training.”
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has expressed its support for Lanre Shittu Motors’ initiative. Joseph Osanipin, the Director-General of NADDC, praised the introduction of factory-fitted CNG buses.
“This initiative is excellent news for commercial transporters and the public,” Osanipin stated. “The vehicles are ready for use right out of the factory, and NADDC will collaborate with Lanre Shittu Motors to ensure the successful rollout of this technology.”
Osanipin also noted that NADDC would be involved in testing the buses and providing training to ensure smooth operation. “We are working with Lanre Shittu Motors to ensure that the technology is implemented effectively and that operators are well-trained,” he added.