ROTIMI ASHER
Global auto major Changan along with Stallion Motors, its exclusive partner in Nigeria, has launched new models of Changan vehicles Alsvin , CS55, CS95 into the nation’s automotive market.
The event, a cocktail, was held in the evening of Thursday 21st November at the Changan showroom on Akin Adesola street, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Powered by a 1.5 engine mated to an automatic transmission, Alsvin V3, an entry level sedan and one of the new models launched, is not only dynamic and family friendly, it offers customers excellent value for money, safety, stylish exterior and interior design and ample space.
Also designed and developed by Changan’s European Design team, CS 55 is not only powered by 1.5L petrol engine mated onto 6-speed automatic transmission, inspiration for its shape was said to have been drawn from Obsidian ( Vulcanic Glass).
Whereas Changan CS95, a work of art that integrates a simple design into extraordinary functions, is powered by the blue core 2.0L turbo GDI direct injection supercharged engine, which is the best in class, joined with the globally advanced Aisin 6 speed automatic transmission and the latest Borgwarner Nex Trac intelligent all-wheel drive system.
Speaking during the event, Stallion Chief Finance Officer, Samar Sapre said the launch of the new models from Changan shows the company’s commitment towards bringing feature packed best in class quality in affordable range to Nigerian customers.
“The models,” he pointed out, “are state- of- the –art cars specifically made for Nigeria road conditions.”
According to him, the company has sales and service outlets in seven locations across Nigeria, two in Lagos and one each in Abuja, Ibadan, Kano, Enugu and Port Harcourt.
“The company,” he said, “has invested in a state-of-the-art central auto parts and service center at Orile Lagos to support the distribution of genuine parts across the nation for the upkeep of these vehicles. The service facilities offer preventive maintenance, mechanical and electrical repair to body shop and paint booth and are periodically trained by Changan to ensure best service delivery.”
Also speaking, Changan Head, Middle East and Africa Business, Lucas Xiang described Nigeria as an important market for Changan global business.
He said: “The new range of vehicles namely Alsvin-Sedan and CS 55 and CS 55, mid and high-end SUV are equipped with new-generation platform, contemporary design and will offer best-in-class efficiency, performance and comfort.
“These vehicles will further augment the brand ethos of ‘Lasting Safety.’’
According to Xiang, Changan is one of the top Chinese auto brands that is gaining immense popularity worldwide and is known for its value offering across automotive segments.
He stressed: “Changan automobile boasts an industrial history stretching back 157 years. With 32 years of experience in building and selling passenger vehicles, Changan is an early leader in the auto industry. Each day, more than 8,500 consumers buy a new Changan worldwide and it is increasingly becoming one of the trustworthy brands in the West Africa market. The new models are the best for the Nigerian roads.”
Affirming the quality and durability of the cars, Stanbic IBTC Relationship Manager, Asset and Financing Department, Benedict Ndulue, who also attended the launch, revealed that his company had been financing Changan for its customers.
“The feedback,” he explained, “is that they are satisfied with what they are getting.
‘’Like you may know, it took a long time for Chinese brands to gain acceptance into the Nigerian market. It was accepted because of the high exchange rate and the automotive policy that pushes the prices of automobile very high. The Chinese brands became a cheaper option but people were still apprehensive about durability. So with time, people started warming up to it especially when a reputable organization like Stallion partnered with Changan to bring their vehicles to Nigeria. So, we look at it and said Stallion is a reliable company, let’s give it a trial. Since then it has been all good news.’’
‘’ I think they made a wise decision to partner with Changan and not any other Chinese brand because the feedback has always been that the vehicle is durable. This has given my organization the motivation to keep financing the brand. With the partnership, we have done several promos and with those promos, we have financed quite a number of vehicles for them.’’
‘’Besides that, Changan is offering five years warranty on their vehicles which the traditional European and Japanese auto companies can’t match. So we identified with the brand that it is good and we will keep financing it for our customers. We urge the company to keep up the high standard.”
Apart from representatives of Stanbic IBTC Bank, there were dignitaries from the Guardian Group, Norland Nigeria and others at the event who were strong advocates of Changan vehicles. They shared their positive experience about the brands and their long lasting relation which span over 5 years.
Based on this trust and testimonies, the company promised to add more products to the portfolio and offer innovative and comprehensive solution to the Nigerian customers.
