Hybrid Motors Nigeria and Shanghai-based Launch Design have inked a major partnership deal. The agreement targets 70,000 electric vehicles annually across two manufacturing plants.
Both companies signed the strategic partnership in Shanghai on May 8, 2026. They'll establish production facilities in Lagos and Abuja to build "Acely," Hybrid Motors' homegrown automobile brand.
Acely vehicles are designed specifically for Nigerian roads and driving conditions. The partnership merges Hybrid Motors' local expertise with Launch Design's engineering prowess.
Jubril Arogundade, Hybrid Motors Nigeria's chief executive, spoke at the signing ceremony. He said the deal represents far more than a commercial transaction.
"This partnership is more than a business agreement. It is a commitment to building Nigeria's automotive future," Arogundade noted.
He stressed that Acely proves world-class vehicles can be made in Nigeria. According to him, Launch Design's global expertise will ensure international quality standards are met.
"Our collaboration with Launch Design brings global engineering expertise directly into our operations, ensuring that Acely meets international standards while remaining proudly Nigerian," he added.
Wang Xun, Launch Design's chief executive, called the venture transformative for Africa's automotive sector. He highlighted the strength of combining engineering capabilities with market knowledge.
"Launch Design is proud to partner with Hybrid Motors Nigeria in this transformative venture," Wang said during the ceremony.
"Our turnkey engineering capabilities, combined with Hybrid Motors' understanding of the Nigerian market, create a powerful formula for success," he continued.
Lagos will host the primary assembly hub along the Lekki-Epe corridor. This facility will churn out 50,000 units yearly and benefit from proximity to Lekki Deep Sea Port.
Export operations to Ghana, Benin, Togo and Côte d'Ivoire are planned from the Lagos location. Regional markets will receive vehicles via the deep sea port.
Abuja's secondary manufacturing centre sits within Centenary Economic City's Free Zone Business Area. It'll produce 20,000 units annually to serve Northern Nigeria and Sahel markets.
The two-plant strategy cuts logistics expenses and boosts operational efficiency. Job creation across multiple regions is expected from the dual facilities.
Acely vehicles emphasise local assembly and energy efficiency technology. They'll incorporate advanced systems suited to Nigeria's terrain and climate conditions.
Electric and hybrid vehicle adoption should accelerate under this initiative. The project aligns with Nigeria's clean energy objectives and global sustainability trends.
Both firms say the deal matches the Federal Government's National Automotive Industry Development Plan. Officials aim to expand domestic vehicle production and draw more investment into the sector.
Arogundade described the agreement as a watershed moment for Nigeria's mobility landscape. He said the Lagos and Abuja facilities will serve complementary markets across Nigeria and the wider region.
