With its partnership with Chinese auto manufacturers, Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM) has disclosed that the Nigerian economy has greatly benefited. In an interview with media in Lagos, LSM Group Executive Director Mr. Taiwo Shittu said the company’s relationships with Asian companies had allowed for the import and assembly of commercial and heavy trucks that were both affordable and functional, which now serve a wide range of industries including oil and gas, construction, and transport companies. He added that the rising cost of European, American and Japanese automobiles was making them unaffordable for many Nigerian businesses but that the affordable Chinese substitutes were a welcome relief.
Doing business with Chinese people may be quite technical, according to Taiwo Shittu, but that’s where expertise is useful. When they are aware of someone’s diligence, a Chinese corporation might be fair to them. Therefore, he stated that they are fortunate to be promoting a very reputable brand (JAC) and that they honour the MOU they made. It used to be challenging to sell to other people because some Chinese corporations sold to them as dealers and also to consumers. However, they have now completely locked in their deal. Dealerships are respected by JAC, for instance. Some Nigerians who travelled to China to purchase JAC trucks got directed to them again.
Company plans for new phases and developments.
By mid-January 2023, they plan to deliver 48 Huanghai LSM pickups. More so, their facility is usually busy whenever visitors come by because they don’t simply sell; they also provide outstanding aftercare so that their clients experience fewer complaints with their vehicles and, as a result, return to them. Additionally, they operate two plants that are growing; one of the plants is located in Sagamu, Ogun State. There, construction has begun, and the first line is anticipated to be finished by the end of this year. There will be six lines, but they will do them one after another.
The Executive Director explained that the world economy had been in a horrible place but that legitimate companies wouldn’t close their doors but would instead come up with creative solutions to help revive the economy. He further stated that products like the JAC were capable of lasting 30 years or longer, citing the durability of the transmission, chassis and axles, which he referred to as “the life of the vehicle. Also, he believed that those older European brands still in existence today must have been rebuilt or had their engines replaced.
Quality, inexpensive trucks receive wide acceptance by people.
Furthermore, he emphasized that the vehicle’s structure, axle, and chassis are highly durable, the engine can always be changed, and it can be put back on the road. Endorsement is the most important factor in vehicle brands. Currently, JAC trucks are on par with European trucks regarding quality and upkeep. However, only a few individuals can afford the high price of a European truck. They have become too costly and challenging to turn a profit. People require inexpensive trucks, and they won’t want to spend N100 million or more on a truck travelling when that amount of money can buy three trucks.
Reiterating the market’s acceptance of JAC trucks, he said Chinese products have already flooded the market in Nigeria and are expected to stay because their quality has improved to nearly match the European standard. Further, the costs are quite reasonable. Almost all of the parts come from the same factories that supply the components for the major European brands. They’ve established themselves in China, and now most vehicle brands are basically of the same standard.
Lanre Shittu Motors’ newest models is the Huanghai LSM.
LSM is a commercial vehicle industry leader in Nigeria that imports and assembles Chinese-made parts, such as those made by JAC, XCMG, and Huanghai. One of Lanre Shittu Motors’ newest models is the Huanghai LSM. The auto assembly factory operated by the company is located in the highbrow industrial district of Amuwo Odofin in Lagos, and it is primarily staffed by Nigerian technicians and engineers. However, the plant also employs experts from the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
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LSM: Website
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