Elizade JAC Autoland has once again reaffirmed its leadership in Nigeria’s automotive space with the grand unveiling of the T9 Pickup and JS8 PRO SUV at a high-profile event held on 22nd October, 2025, at The Podium in Lekki, Lagos. The launch brought together top industry leaders, government dignitaries, and car enthusiasts, marking a bold step toward strengthening the nation’s mobility and logistics ecosystem.
The unveiling showcased the company’s dedication to producing durable, reliable, and stylish vehicles tailored for Nigerian conditions. The two new models — the rugged T9 Pickup and the luxurious JS8 PRO SUV — were introduced as solutions to the growing need for dependable vehicles capable of handling Nigeria’s challenging roads and diverse transport demands. These vehicles come with advanced safety technologies, fuel-efficient engines, and modern connectivity features, positioning them as strong contenders in both the logistics and family transport segments.
At the launch, Chairman Oye Hassan-Odukale highlighted Elizade JAC Autoland’s mission to blend reliability, performance, and innovation to meet local needs, while Managing Director Demola Ade-Ojo underscored the company’s commitment to affordable excellence. Senior Brand Manager Olumide Olaokun spoke on the design philosophy behind the models, emphasising a balance between ruggedness and modern luxury. Representing JAC International, Bruce Zhao, Sales Manager for West Africa, reinforced the company’s 61-year heritage of engineering quality vehicles, affirming that the new releases demonstrate their dedication to the African market. A memorable moment from the event was the presentation of a brand-new RF8 Hybrid Electric Vehicle to company founder Sir Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, celebrating his lifelong contributions to Nigeria’s automotive industry.
The JAC T9 Pickup stands out as a powerhouse engineered for heavy-duty performance. It features a turbocharged 2.0CTI diesel or 2.0TGDI gasoline engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and delivers exceptional torque for towing up to 3,500kg with a payload capacity of 1,000kg. Its advanced safety package includes six airbags, a high-strength steel body, and Level 2 Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and a 360-degree camera. The T9 also offers a refined interior with diamond-stitched leather seats, a 10.4-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and comfort features such as ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. With 2WD and 4WD variants equipped for multiple terrains, it is a strategic addition to Nigeria’s logistics landscape, especially for small business owners and rural transporters.
The JAC JS8 PRO SUV, on the other hand, caters to families and professionals seeking space, safety, and sophistication. It’s powered by a 1.5T GDI engine producing 182 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for smooth performance. The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in about 9.8 seconds, maintaining a fuel efficiency of 7.9L/100km. Its seven-seater design features over 2,000 liters of cargo space with seats folded, dual 24.6-inch display screens, independent rear air conditioning, and 60W fast charging. Built with 60.4% high-strength steel and equipped with six airbags and a 360-degree camera, it ensures safety and comfort for urban commutes and long-distance travel alike.
Beyond the hardware, Elizade JAC Autoland is addressing one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges: access to affordable, durable vehicles for business and family use. Through flexible financing options and an Auto Protect extended warranty of five years or 150,000km, the company is empowering entrepreneurs, transporters, and families to own modern vehicles without financial strain. This initiative is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s logistics backbone, reduce maintenance costs, and encourage local enterprise mobility.
The launch also signals a broader shift in Nigeria’s automotive market toward innovation-driven local adaptation. While global automakers are exploring electric and hybrid transitions, Elizade JAC’s strategy focuses on providing vehicles that are tough, efficient, and affordable — bridging the gap between luxury imports and practical local needs. This aligns with the nation’s growing emphasis on supporting local assembly and industrial development, a move that could help reduce import dependence and stimulate the local auto ecosystem.
In comparison with global trends, JAC’s approach mirrors emerging market strategies in regions like Southeast Asia and South America, where brands are thriving by aligning product design with regional conditions and user expectations. While competitors in Nigeria’s market continue to rely heavily on imports, Elizade JAC’s focus on after-sales service, financing accessibility, and local partnerships gives it a unique edge in long-term sustainability.
As Nigeria’s transport infrastructure and logistics demands evolve, vehicles like the T9 Pickup and JS8 PRO SUV are positioned to play a key role in bridging efficiency gaps for both urban and rural users. This launch not only reinforces Elizade JAC’s market presence but also invites a bigger question — will local automakers and distributors increasingly adopt a “built for Nigeria” philosophy to drive industrial growth and mobility inclusion nationwide?
