- NADDC and Mataji Express launched an initiative to convert petrol tricycles into electric vehicles, reducing costs and emissions.
- Converted tricycles run on batteries that provide a 90-kilometre range of ₦270–₦275 per charge, promoting cleaner transport.
- Mataji Express plans to expand the conversion project and manufacture lithium batteries locally by year-end to support the growing demand.
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and Mataji Express have partnered to convert petrol-powered tricycles into electric vehicles. The initiative aims to reduce operator costs and promote clean energy in the transport sector.
NADDC Director-General Joseph Osanipin emphasised the project’s economic and environmental benefits. He noted that the initiative supports the government’s push for sustainable transport under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This project fits within President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Osanipin stated. “We aim to find cheaper, cleaner alternatives to power vehicles in Nigeria.”
The electric tricycles run on five 12-volt, 20-amp batteries, which generate 1.2 kilowatts of power. Charging costs ₦270–₦275 (£0.25) under the Band A electricity tariff and provides a 90-kilometre range. Osanipin highlighted the benefits of electric vehicles, noting that they produce zero emissions and reduce operating costs.
“Electric vehicles are more cost-effective and eco-friendly,” he said. “This will improve transportation efficiency in Nigeria.”
Dr. Dan Iliya, Project Coordinator at Mataji Express, outlined plans to start manufacturing lithium batteries locally by year-end to support the growing electric vehicle sector. He also discussed expanding the initiative to other states as demand rises.
“Tricycles serve as a key mode of transport in urban and regional areas,” Iliya said. “Converting them to electric will make clean transport more accessible.”
Iliya addressed the high importation cost challenge, which has prevented many operators from purchasing new electric tricycles. Mataji Express partnered with foreign manufacturers to develop conversion kits for petrol-powered tricycles to solve this.
“In February last year, we converted 18 tricycles,” Iliya said. “They ran smoothly for a full year, proving the reliability of the technology.”
With NADDC’s support, Mataji Express plans to increase production and drive broader adoption of electric tricycles. The initiative will help Nigeria meet its clean energy targets while lowering transport costs for operators.
The partnership signals a significant step towards sustainable, affordable transport solutions in Nigeria.