Nord Automotive has officially launched Tavet Motion, its electric vehicle (EV) subsidiary, marking a bold step in Nigeria’s automotive evolution. Announced on 23rd October, 2025, by CEO Oluwatobi Ajayi, the new venture focuses on local assembly, manufacturing, marketing, and aftersales of EVs designed for Nigeria’s roads. The initiative, celebrated widely across social media and local news outlets, aims to create jobs, cut vehicle imports, and build a foundation for sustainable mobility while empowering young Nigerian engineers through hands-on innovation.
Tavet Motion’s introduction reflects a strategic pivot for Nord Automotive, a Lagos-based manufacturer founded in 2018. Having established itself through the local assembly of vehicles like the Nord A9 SUV, A5 Luxury sedan, A7, Demir, Yarn, Tripper, and Flit, Nord is leveraging its technical expertise to expand into the EV market. The move signifies a broader effort to localise production, foster economic independence, and align with global trends toward green transportation. By tapping into its existing infrastructure and partnerships with component suppliers in Thailand and China, Nord is positioning Tavet Motion as a credible competitor in West Africa’s emerging EV ecosystem.
The company’s debut lineup includes models priced from around ₦16 million for entry-level vehicles to ₦32 million for premium variants. This pricing strategy positions Tavet’s EVs competitively within the Nigerian market, especially when compared to imported alternatives that often exceed ₦28 million after taxes and logistics costs. Designed for resilience, Tavet’s vehicles emphasise durability, energy efficiency, and comfort, blending advanced infotainment features with sustainable engineering tailored to local driving conditions. While technical details such as battery range and charging speed are forthcoming, the focus on practicality and affordability signals a deliberate effort to make EV ownership attainable for Nigerians.
Beyond manufacturing, Tavet Motion is committed to building an entire ecosystem around electric mobility. The company plans to develop charging stations, battery maintenance programs, and collaborations with renewable energy providers. This holistic strategy tackles Nigeria’s most persistent EV challenges—limited charging infrastructure and unreliable power supply—by integrating energy and mobility solutions. If successful, Tavet could establish a replicable framework for other African markets seeking to transition from fossil fuel dependence.
From a societal perspective, the launch underscores opportunities for young Nigerian engineers and technicians, particularly in Lagos. Nord’s growing workforce reflects a new generation of talent engaging in clean-tech innovation. Community reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting themes of job creation, national pride, and technological empowerment. Many view Tavet Motion not just as a business venture but as a statement of Nigeria’s potential to lead in sustainable transportation.
The timing of Tavet’s launch coincides with an accelerating shift toward electric mobility in Nigeria. In recent months, FAW Nigeria unveiled its range of luxury EVs, while Abia State announced an electric public transport initiative powered by solar energy. Industry players such as Saglev and Orbit Electric are also advocating for government-backed incentives and infrastructure investment. With upcoming events like the EVN Expo 2025 spotlighting electric transport innovation, Tavet Motion enters a market increasingly receptive to clean mobility solutions. Yet, success will depend heavily on supportive policies, financing options, and sustained public-private collaboration.
CEO Oluwatobi Ajayi has expressed optimism that Tavet Motion can catalyze Nigeria’s green economy by fostering self-reliance and reducing carbon emissions. The company’s long-term vision includes regional expansion across West Africa and partnerships aimed at scaling production. However, infrastructural challenges, high initial costs, and global supply dynamics—such as tariffs between major EV-producing nations—remain significant hurdles. Still, with Nord’s proven track record and growing technical capacity, Tavet Motion stands as a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s automotive journey.
In essence, Tavet Motion represents more than just an EV launch—it’s a signal of industrial maturity and ambition. By merging economic development with environmental responsibility, Nord Automotive is charting a new course for Nigeria’s automotive future. As the nation’s EV ecosystem takes shape, the real question becomes whether government and industry leaders can sustain the momentum to transform innovation into mass adoption.
