Jubril Arogundade: Buying new Nigerian-made cars boosts the economy, cuts carbon emissions by 50%

There’s something special about buying a brand-new car. The feeling of stepping into a vehicle that’s never been driven before is unmatched, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are the first owner is invaluable. But beyond the excitement, there are tangible benefits to purchasing a new car, especially regarding the latest safety and fuel efficiency technologies.

One of the surprising advantages of buying new is the often lower interest rates compared to used cars. Lenders view new cars as less risky investments, leading to better rates for those with good credit. This, coupled with the fact that new vehicles require less repairs and maintenance, makes them a more economical choice in the long run.

Buying a brand-new car is not just about the thrill of driving off the lot in a shiny new vehicle; it’s about investing in reliability, safety, and the future of your community. Not only do you get to enjoy that new car smell, but you also benefit from the latest safety and fuel efficiency technologies.

The market is big, but the market is also narrow because the entire automotive industry in Nigeria today, in terms of brand new car sales every year, is not more than 20,000 units, in a market where the opportunity is up to 1 million car sales annually, due to our population

New cars have the latest features and technologies, such as navigation systems, collision detection sensors, and electric engines. These features enhance your driving experience and ensure that you are up to date with the latest advancements in automotive technology.

Additionally, buying a new car provides the opportunity to support the local economy. For instance, buying Nigerian-made cars is not only good for the economy but also helps cut carbon emissions by up to 50 per cent, according to Jubril Arogundade, Group Head of Communication at GAC Motors.

Arogundade revealed this during an exclusive interview with Autojournal Africa, where he shed light on the significance of GAC Motors and its impact on the Nigerian automotive industry. “GAC Motors is a highly innovative company based in China,” he said. “GAC embodies the technology of Japan, the design of Germany, the innovation of America, and the craftsmanship of China, coupled with a profound industrial understanding of business, making GAC a powerhouse in the automotive industry.”

Driving economic growth with made-in-Nigeria cars

Our bank partners are ready to finance your purchase under a scheme called ‘buy now pay later’, where you can drive a GAC car small-small, up to 60 months which is 5 years,

Nigeria has the potential to become a significant player in the automotive industry, with the opportunity to produce up to 1 million cars annually. However, the current brand-new car sales stand at only 20,000 units per year. By increasing the demand for locally manufactured cars, Nigerians can help bridge this gap and unlock the full potential of the automotive sector. “This, in turn, will lead to job creation, economic growth, and a more sustainable future,” Arogundade added.

Environmental impact of driving brand new cars in Nigeria

The decision to buy a brand-new car, particularly one with advanced engine technology like GAC models, can have a profound impact on the environment. With carbon emissions reduced significantly (50 per cent) compared to used cars, Nigerian-made vehicles offer a cleaner and greener alternative for commuters. By opting for new cars, consumers not only contribute to cleaner air but also support efforts to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability.

When asked about the advantages of buying a brand-new car, especially a GAC model assembled in Nigeria, Arogundade highlighted the environmental and economic benefits. “We have a common problem as a people that needs to be resolved by us,” he said. “We cannot have a successful industry in Nigeria without the buying power. The market is big, but the market is also narrow because the entire automotive industry in Nigeria today, in terms of brand new car sales every year, is not more than 20,000 units, in a market where the opportunity is up to 1 million car sales annually, due to our population.”

Financial accessibility

Despite the perception that brand-new cars are unaffordable, financing options offered by GAC Motors and its banking partners make new car ownership accessible to a wider audience. With schemes like ‘buy now pay later’, individuals can spread the cost of their vehicle over several years, making it easier to afford high-quality, locally manufactured cars. This financial flexibility empowers Nigerians to make the switch to new cars without straining their finances, ultimately driving economic growth and development.

“Our bank partners are ready to finance your purchase under a scheme called ‘buy now pay later’, where you can drive a GAC car small-small, up to 60 months which is 5 years,” Arogundade told Autojournal. “This is a call that Nigerians should start looking at the options of taking loans to buy cars. Every country in the world does this. No country sells cars in the world that don’t buy through the financing system.”

Driving change: A case for buying Nigerian-made cars

Arogundade also urged Nigerians to analyse their spending habits, pointing out the long-term advantages of purchasing a new car over a used one. “You will see that the tokunbo (used) car might be 25 per cent cheaper than the brand-new car. But actually, you’re not saving costs; you’re doing yourself more harm,” he explained. “When you use a GAC car with our new engine technology, you will have good after-sales support and peace of mind.”

In conclusion, Arogundade noted the broader impact of buying Nigerian-made cars. “Our goal is to make sure that once you want to use a car, GAC can provide you with the best car for yourself,” he stated. “We dream of employing more Nigerians to build cars we can export to other African countries.”

The choice to buy Nigerian-made cars transcends individual preferences; it becomes a powerful statement in support of local industries, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. With every new car purchase, Nigerians have the opportunity to drive change, one vehicle at a time.

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