ROTIMI ASHER
Coscharis Motors, Nigeria’s leading automotive company, has partnered with the Abia State Government to introduce a fleet of Coscharis-branded electric buses, marking a major push toward cleaner, smarter public transportation in the state.
The first batch of 20 units, part of a larger phased supply, was unveiled to select motoring journalists on Thursday at a location in the Oshodi–Apapa axis of Lagos.
Speaking at the event, President of Coscharis Group, Dr. Cosmas Maduka, described the initiative as a forward-looking partnership anchored on innovation and sustainability.
“We have partnered with the Abia State Government to provide these electric buses,” Maduka said. “The first 20 units have arrived. Another 20 are in production, and more will follow.”
Reaffirming Coscharis’ leadership in automotive innovation, he added: “Coscharis has continued to set standards in this industry. We previously supplied about 800 buses to the Lagos State Government—the blue buses you see across Lagos came from us. Now, Abia has taken a bold step by choosing EVs over LPG or diesel. His Excellency was very forward-thinking.”
Maduka noted that the buses come with advanced safety and monitoring features, including internal and rear cameras, onboard data capture systems, and enhanced security to curb theft and pickpocketing.
“These buses will boost tourism and redefine public transport. Even the King of England can ride in this bus,” he said. “Governor Alex Otti and his team want Abia to offer the same comfort and safety you find in the UK.”
Addressing concerns over Nigeria’s power challenges, Maduka disclosed that Coscharis Technologies is building a dedicated solar-powered charging station for the fleet.
“These buses run during the day and charge overnight. There are more than 20 charging points, enough for 40 buses returning daily. Once fully charged, a bus can run up to 300km, supporting interstate trips like Umuahia to Aba. Depending on distance, it can run for several days before recharging.”
He further emphasized the advantages of EVs over CNG:“CNG still relies on internal combustion. EVs are fully electric—just charge and move. That’s where the world is heading.”
Each bus seats about 40 passengers and includes features for people with disabilities, emergency hammers, automatic doors, and a 360-degree emergency exit system.
Coscharis described the rollout as the beginning of a new transportation era in Abia State—one they hope other states will emulate.
