Just one case of death from road traffic accident was recorded in Oslo, Norway in 2019. And this cuts across all ages.

Official figures have shown that for the first time ever, no children under the age of 16, died in traffic in Norway last year.

Meanwhile, several people died in traffic in other parts of Norway compared to the previous year, -110 compared to 108 in 2018.

In 2017, only three people died on roads in Oslo. This is according to a report by a local newspaper, Aftenposten. This is the second-lowest number of traffic deaths was in the country.

According to the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, in the past 50 years, the number of mortalities on the city’s roads have declined drastically, down from 41 deaths in 1975.
Norway had the lowest number of deaths records in traffic in Europe in 2017. The country recorded 20 incidents per one million inhabitants.

Continue reading: https://autojosh.com/oslo-road-accident-just-one-person-died-in-whole-year-see-country/
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Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw is a spinoff of the “Fast & Furious” movie franchise. Like the previous franchises, Hobbs & Shaw features some automotive eye candies.

This spinoff stars regulars, former WWE wrestler Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson (Luke Hobbs) and Jason Statham (Deckerd Shaw). It also features Vanessa Kirby (Hattie) and Idris Elba, who played the role of a cyber bio-engineered terrorist (Brixton).
Typical of the Fast & Furious franchise, this edition is full of wits, humour, impossible car stunts and high-octane car races.

Not a few striking cars were used to execute the movie, some of which were postapocalyptic-looking utility vehicles.

Fast and Furious: Hobbs & Shaw debuted in cinemas worldwide on August 2. In Nigeria, it made N6.8 million on its first day, thus unseating Lion-King as the best-grossing movie on the first day in Nigeria.

Here, Autojosh.com highlights, in order of appearance in the movie, 8 outstanding cars used in Fast and Furious: Hobbs & Shaw.



McLaren 720S



The dark blue McLaren 720S featured in one of the major car-chase sequences.

The 720S treated viewers to several squeals and nice stunt sequences. Driven by Statham, the car engaged in some jaw-dropping dare-devil moves in what appears like the street of London. (Actually, all the stunt driving took place in Glasgow, which stood in for London).

The highpoint was when Stratham —behind the right-hand-drive wheel—slides the car under two opposing trailers.

However, what was particularly interesting about the scene with the 720s was how 3 people – Stratham, Vanessa Kirby and the incredible hulk in the form of Dwayne Johnson fitted in the McLaren. The McLaren isn’t exactly the most spacious car. Apparently, some adjustment or some CGI was done to create that interior scene.

Now, here are some things to know about the Mclaren 720S. A 720S will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.7 seconds, blow through a quarter-mile in 10.2 seconds at 145 mph, and will reach a claimed top speed of 212 mph.



The car is loaded with a massive 3,994cc 4-litre V-8 petrol engine and 7-speed Reverse Seamless Shift dual-clutch Gearbox (SSG) along with twin Electrically-Actuated Twin Scroll turbochargers, Dry sump. With the help of it, 568lbs Torque produces and generates Power 720ps /710bhp.

The McLaren is designed and manufactured by British automobile manufacturer McLaren Automotive. The 720S was launched on 7 March 2017.

The starting price for a McLaren 720S is about $315k. However, in Nigeria, the post-shipping and landing cost for a McLaren would be in the neighbourhood of N200million.



Rock Crawler (Customized Land Rover Defender 110)



Another prominent automotive feature in the Hobbs & Shaw was a Rock Crawler. Some unbelievable stunts were performed with it during a car chase sequence.

According to the producers, the initial design of the crawler was loosely based on a Land Rover Defender 110. However. it evolved during the process of filming.

The vehicle was made using gear that had been leftover from a past Fast & Furious movie. They ended up with a powerful machine: full tube chassis with 500 horsepower. Everything about the rock crawler was custom-built.

In the movie, Statham managed to achieve impossible manoeuvres with the utility vehicle during an escape scene.


MAN KAT1



Another vehicle that featured prominently in the Hobbs & Shaw is the iconic MAN KAT1.

The MAN KAT1 is part of a family of high-mobility off-road trucks developed by MAN SE for the German army.

In the movie, A MAN KAT1 was kept at the Eteon Headquarters and was used to escape from the facility.

The first model of the KAT1 was introduced in 1976. The original intention was to build a family of logistics vehicles, which could carry full loads across severe terrain whilst keeping up with modern main battle tanks. The first model produced was 8×8; 6×6 and 4×4 variants followed.

A few ex-military MAN KAT1 vehicles are released onto the second-hand market in Germany.




1935 Ford Truck RatRod



The year 1935 was a great year for auto-maker Ford. Both Ford cars and Ford trucks featured engineering improvements and new styling, and customers responded. When the tally was counted at the end of the year, more buyers chose Fords — both cars and trucks — than any other make.

A redesigned 1935 Ford Truck was used in the Hobbs & Shaw.

The vehicle just seemed to fit the environment. They took a Pro 2 truck, which is the ultimate in short-course off-road racing, and topped it off with a kit from Factory Five. So there is a monster chassis with a 1935 Ford pickup body over it. For the movie, the vehicle was then aged, to look like it had been sitting out for a few years, but the components beneath were spotless.

Source:

https://autojosh.com/8-outstanding-cars-used-in-the-movie-fast-furious-presents-hobbs-shaw/

In May 1967, Mobolaji Johnson became the first Governor of Lagos State, this was during the regime of Gen. Aguiyi Ironsi. Then, Lagos State was the Federal Capital.

Johnson was a visionary and one of the first to consider using the waterways as a mean of mass transit in the State.

His administration birthed a plan to encourage car owners to park their cars on the mainland and come to Lagos Island by ferry.

Marina Reclamation
In order to achieve this, on the Lagos Island end, several meters of the Marina Harbour was sand-filled. The reclamation of the Marina shoreline was done in order to build large public car parks and jetties.

The reclaimed shoreline was further reinforced with concrete. That part of Lagos Island is what is today referred to as “Outer Marina”.

On the other hand, they also planned to sand-fill the areas at the back of the University of Lagos. And just like at the Lagos Island end, there were plans to make it into a big public car park where people can park and take ferries to Lagos Island. However, it is believed that the overthrow of the Gowon administrating terminated the project.

Mobolaji Johnson served as military Governor of Lagos State from May 1967 to July 1975. His tenure as Military Governor of Lagos State saw the building of major infrastructure in Lagos State.

He retired from the Nigerian Army in 1975 and went into private business. In his honour, a road, an avenue, and a sports complex were named after him in Lagos State.

Mobalaji Johnson died on October 30, 2019 at the age of 83 in his home. His death was announced by his son Deji Johnson.

See below photos of the old Marina before it was reclaimed and how it is after the reclamation.





Source:

https://autojosh.com/mobolaji-johnson-see-what-the-first-governor-of-lagos-state-did-at-marina/

Coscharis Group has formally launched the new 2019 Ford Edge SUV into the Nigerian automobile market.

The unveiling ceremony of the new Ford Edge took place on Wednesday, at the ongoing 2019 Abuja International Motor Fair holding at the International Conference Centre Annex, Abuja.

The 2019 Ford Edge upscale sport utility vehicle (SUV) is defined by modern sophistication. Athletic new front and rear styling that achieves its ultimate expression – an exhilarating 250 horsepower of performance-enhanced pleasure.

The New Ford Edge comes with a lot of new features that stand it out in its class.

Inside and outside, Ford has added new aesthetic and functional features to make the new Edge a class leader.

Starting with Ford Co-Pilot360™, a suite of standard driver-assist technologies designed to help you confidently navigate your world. You will also find a smooth-shifting rotary gearshift dial that puts you in control of the 8-speed automatic transmission. Also, there is a wireless charging pad that makes recharging your mobile phone hassle-free. Music lovers are not left behind as the new Edge now has available B&O Sound System with 12 high-performance speakers.

It’s freshened fascia, wider grille and redesigned hood, helps it cast a more planted stance on the road; the low- and high-beam bi-LED headlamps that illuminates your view; the Sparkle Silver-painted Aluminum wheels fills the wells for a solid finish; and the 4-wheel disc Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) helps bring automobile to a halt.

Speaking at the unveiling event, Abiona Babarinde, the General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, said “ Ford has continued to thrill the world with enhanced new products born out of deep-rooted research into the desires of automobile consumers around the globe. We at Coscharis will always see to it that our market never misses the opportunity to get its fair share of such highly innovative products”.

“Depending on the variant of the new Edge you decide to choose, you will find all the above mentioned sophisticated features and more. Little wonder, we love to describe the new 2019 Ford Edge as an upscale sport utility vehicle (SUV) defined by modern sophistication”.

“With this launch today, Coscharis has once again enlarged the coast for SUV vehicles and increased the options for our customers to choose from a wide range of Ford SUVs, including Expedition, Explorer, Escape, EcoSport and now, the new Edge” said Babarinde.

Coscharis Motors is the sole representative of Ford in Nigeria.

Source:

https://autojosh.com/coscharis-launches-the-new-2019-ford-edge-in-nigeria-photos/

5. Martín Cáceres (Ferrari 458)
6. Lewis Grabban (Ferrari 488 GTB)

3. Éver Banega (Ferrari 360 Mondena)

4. Arturo Vidal (Ferrari 458 Italia)

In the footballing world, Ferraris are a popular vehicle choice. A lot of top professional footballers own at least a brand of Ferrari.

Ferrari is a symbol of speed, luxury and wealth. On the road, the car courts attention, effortlessly.

However, some of them are known to have been careless with theirs. Hence, they crashed and damaged their expensive toys.

Ferrari is manufactured in Maranello, Italy. The first Ferrari was manufactured in 1940.

In this article, Autojosh.com highlights some footballers who have crashed and damaged their Ferraris.


Cristiano Ronaldo (Ferrari 599 GTB)

On January 8, 2009, Portuguese International, Cristiano Ronaldo, crashed his Ferrari 599 GTB.

The accident occurred while he was still playing for Manchester United.

The 5 times Ballon D’or award-winner, who was 23 years old then, escaped unhurt after crashing the car into a roadside barrier in a tunnel near Manchester airport.

Ronaldo was on his way to training when the accident occurred, but he later arrived at the ground and took part in the training session.



Ricardo Costa (Ferrari 599 GTB)

December 2011, Ricardo Costa, a Valencia defender then, crashed his Ferrari 599GTB. The accident happened just two weeks after he bought the car.

According to reports, on his way back from training, the Portuguese lost control of his Ferrari and drove right into a hedge.

He was traveling with his dad who had to be taken to hospital following the accident for a nervous breakdown.


Éver Banega (Ferrari 360 Mondena)

On 30 July 2012, Ever Banega, a midfielder for Spanish club Valencia CF, was driving when his Ferrari 360 Mondena suddenly caught fire.

The then 24-year old Argentine was able to escape from the fire unscathed. However, his beloved Ferrari was burnt beyond recognition.

The incident occurred while he was driving on a road near his Valencia team’s training grounds in Spain. Banega had only recently bought the car and the cause of the fire was likely due to an electrical short circuit.

The fire incidence occurred just weeks after he recovered from a broken ankle sustained five months earlier and accident with his Audi R8.


Arturo Vidal (Ferrari 458 Italia)

On June 16, 2015, Chile international and then Juventus footballer Arturo Vidal crashed his Ferrari 458 Italia.

He crashed his Ferrari 458 into another car on the highway before veering off-road. Vidal was on his way back from a casino with his wife. He was driving under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. Both Vidal and his wife were unharmed.

After being treated for minor injuries at a nearby hospital, Vidal was escorted by police to the station for questioning.

The accident left heavy damage to the Ferrari’s left front and deployed airbags.

The accident happened during the 2015 Copa America in his home country Chile. He was the tournament’s current top scorer with three goals when the crash occurred.


Martín Cáceres (Ferrari 458)

On the night of 28 September 2015, Juventus defender, Martín Cáceres, crashed his 458 Italia into a multitude of cars as well as a bus stop in Turin, Italy. When police arrived on the scene, it was discovered that the Uruguayan’s blood-alcohol level was over the legal limit.

The crash caused significant damage to the 458. The front-end took the brunt of the impact with the bus stop. Other visible damage were on the wing mirror and front wheel.

Caceres was later suspended and fined by his club for the drunk driving incidence.


Neymar (Ferrari 458 Spider)

On 27 November 2016, Brazilian, Neymar, who was playing for Barcelona at the time damaged his Ferrari 458 Spider in a road accident.

The 24-year-old was driving to meet up with team-mates before their flight to San Sebastian for a match with Sociedad when the crash occurred.

He was leaving the motorway in his £240,000 sports car when he appeared to lose control on the slip road that was wet from overnight rain.

Neymar escapes unhurt after crashing his £240,000 toy.

A Club official came to the rescue, picking the player up and ensuring that he reached the training ground in time to take the team coach to the airport.


Lewis Grabban (Ferrari 488 GTB)

This entry is a rather bizarre one.

In March 2018, Aston Villa striker, Lewis Grabban, ordered for a brand new £250,000 Ferrari 488 GTB. As he was not going to be at home, he asked his wife’s brother to receive the car on his behalf and have it delivered to him at the training ground.

Instead, the 26-year old brother-in-law and his friend decided to take the supercar out for a spin. He drove the Ferrari into a tree an hour after it was delivered.

The car was later shipped to the Ferrari factory in Italy for a £93,500 worth of repair work.

Source:

https://autojosh.com/7-footballers-who-have-crashed-their-ferraris/

1. Cristiano Ronaldo
2. Ricardo Costa

.

Mobolaji Olufunso Johnson was the first Governor of Lagos State. He was the governor from 1960 to 1975. He is regarded as the architect of modern Lagos.

Within one year, the Johnson administration built the 5 Government Colleges in the State. His administration established its very first housing estate. He also established an industrial estate.

His administration gave the city of Lagos a new international look through the construction of highways, bridges, and other modern infrastructure.

Brigadier-General Johnson was renowned as a symbol of integrity, uprightness, and honesty in government.

Following the Coup d’état of July 1975, the administration of Murtala Mohammed commissioned a 3-man probe panel to investigate the various allegations of corruption against all the State Governors.

Moboloji Johnson was one of the 2 state Governors (along Brig-Gen Oluwole Rotimi) found not guilty of corruption.

Mobalaji Johnson died on October 30, 2019, at the age of 83 in his home.

Autojosh.com, in celebration of the life and times of the first Governor of Lagos state, highlights some key achievements in the road/transport sector of the Mobolaji Johnson administration.


Lagos–Badagry Expressway

During his 9 years stint as the Governor of Lagos State, Johnson constructed the 60.7-kilometer Lagos–Badagry Expressway.

The expressway links Nigeria with the neighbouring countries like Benin, Ghana, and Togo. Work commenced on the road in 1969 work commenced on . The Lagos – Badagry highway, and it was originally meant to be a single carriageway but was expanded to a double dual carriageway. It was completed and commissioned in 1973.


First Double Dual Carriage Way In Nigeria

In 1969, work commenced on the Lagos-Badagry expressway. The expressway was originally meant to be a single carriageway. However, when Brigadier-General Johnson visited the United States later that year, he came back with the inspiration to make Lagos – Badagry highway a double carriageway. The expressway was officially declared open by General Yakubu in 1973. It became the first-ever double carriageway in Nigeria.

A big display board was conspicuously positioned which dedicated the road to Lagos taxpayers, in order to encourage citizens to pay their taxes.



Ito-Ikin Bridge

In 1968, Brigadier-General Johnson built and commissioned the Ito-Ikin Bridge. The bridge links Epe to Ikorodu in Lagos State. This made it possible for people to travel from one part of Lagos state to the other without having to pass through a neighbouring Ogun State.

Also, people visiting Lagos from the South and Eastern states needed not to go through Sagamu anymore. Instead, they can come in through Ito-Ikin Bridge from Ibeju-Ede and straight to Lagos.



Marina waterfront Reclamation

The Mobolaji Johnson administration initiated the reclamation of the Marina waterfront when he sand-filled several meters into the shoreline.

This was necessary in order to build a public car park where people can park and take Ferry rides. Due to the exploding population, it was designed to make allowances for people who would ride in cars, park on the mainland and come by ferry into Lagos.



Eko Bridge

Mobolaji Johnson became governor after construction work had commenced on the Eko Bridge. But to his credit, he supervised and contributed to the conclusion of the Eko Bridge. Eko Bridge is one of three bridges connecting Lagos Island to the mainland, the other is the Third Mainland and Carter bridges. Eko bridge was built by Julius Berger Nigeria PLC. Incidentally, Mobolaji Johnson would later become the Chairman of Julius Berger PLC, a position he assumed in 1996.



Third Mainland Bridge

Mobolaji Johnson was a visionary that contributed to the idea of a bridge that connects Lagos Island and the Mainland. But the idea did not materialize during his reign as governor. The Thirdmainland bridge has constructed and completed during the Gen. Babangida-led Federal government and the Raji-Rasaki-led Lagos state government.


Source:

https://autojosh.com/mobolaji-johnson-4-key-achievements-of-the-first-governor-of-lagos-state/

See videos HERE

According to Laura Ikeji, Innocent Udeme Udofot, popularly known as MC Galaxy, just acquired a three-pointed star SUV. MC Galaxy is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. This announcement was made via 3 Instagram posts one of which she captioned.. "@mcgalaxymcg got the latest AMG yayyyy so happy for u Galaaaaa ������"

This model variant was introduced in 2017 and it has an estimated starting price of N45 million. He also customized the number plate of the SUV like he did his other cars. This Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 s Coupe gets the registration number "MCG-04".

The Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 s Coupe is powered by a Handcrafted AMG 5.5L V8 biturbo producing 550 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 is 4.2 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 174 mph. 

See videos
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3puK32FATZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link


https://autojosh.com/mc-gala[left][/left]xy-just-acquired-n45m-mercedes-benz-gle-63-s-coupe/

Keke NAPEP is a prominent feature of most cities and towns around Nigeria.

Keke NAPEP is a regulated means of transportation in some states. For instance, in Lagos, it is prohibited from plying highways.

Bajaj Auto of Pune, India is the world's largest manufacturer of auto rickshaws.

Now, which of these Nigerian celebrities rocked the Keke NAPEP best?


Desmond Elliot


Florence "DJ Cuppy" Otedola


Omoni Oboli



Anne Idibia & John Ibu


Derenle Edun

Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali


Ese Eriata


Frank Donga & Derenle Edu


Cynthia “Ceec” Nwadiora



Timi Dakolo



Doyin Okupe


Nadia Buari


Austine Okorodudu


Aisha Buhari


John Dumelo


Banky W


Bill Gates





To see more celebrities with Keke NAPEP, visit:


Source: https://autojosh.com/which-of-these-celebrities-rocked-the-keke-napep-best/

Yesterday, passers-by and motorists were left bewildered at the scene of a crash in Benin City - the Edo state capital.

The crash involved a  Hummer 2 SUV that rammed into the wall of the palace of the Oba of Benin.

The shock expressed by the passers-by and motorists was not on account of the crash. Instead, it was due to the fact that the impact on the wall by the Hummer left no damage to the ancient palace wall. Instead, the Hummer was severely damaged.

Note that the earthen (mud) wall of the Oba of Benin is one of the remaining relics of the old Benin Kingdom. The Oba Palace – together with the ancient Benin moats – is one of the numerous tourists’ attractions to the ancient city

Watch the video of the crash


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81YIEU1ymMo

Source: https://autojosh.com/hummer-rams-into-oba-of-benins-palace-wall-gets-destroyed-but-not-the-wall-video/

1. Toyota Solara



The reason for the discontinuance of the Solara was understandable. The Solara was Toyota’s response to Honda Accord coupe, and it was also available in the convertible variant. The production of the Solara spanned 2 generations – 1999-2003 and 2003 – 2008. In 2008, it was discontinued. The reason for its discontinuance was because it did not feel sporty due to poor handling and significant body-shake. This affected sales badly.



2. Toyota Corona/Avensis

See 15 more Toyota Vehicles on Autojosh.


Source:

https://autojosh.com/17-toyota-cars-that-has-been-discontinued-photos/

Ford has launched the latest edition of its best-selling SUV, the Explorer. This edition is a complete redesign of the SUV and you will still see that it is an Explorer but the differences are very visible.

The 2020 Explorer is more powerful, more capable than the outgoing model and it is fully loaded. It is now among the best family SUV on the market right now. The 2020 Explorer drives better and has a more appealing interior.







The mid-size SUV market is very tough with lots of SUV being released, so Ford has to up its game to remain in the podium. SUVs like Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot etc are tough rivals but does the Explorer has what it takes? Let us find out, shall we?

The Explorer is available in two drive-trails, a rear-wheel drive and an all-wheel drive. The rear-wheel-drive is a first from Ford to give buyers a choice of whichever trail they want to go for. Its comes in three engine variants, a 2.3 turbo 4-cylinder engine, 3.0 V6 twin-turbo and a high performance 3.0 twin-turbo V6 outputting 400hp.



The 2020 Ford Explorer is a full 7 seat SUV with lots of equipment that will make you go wild. As part of the total overhaul, the interior is a sight to behold. There is an optional 10-inch screen that looks as if an iPad has been glued to the dashboard. It is multifunctional and very easy to use, the screen graphic is easy to read and visible too. There is an Apple Car-play and Android auto integrated in the system. The seats are much better than the outgoing model’s, offering more support and better vision. There is also a sense of spaciousness in the front two rows, and improved materials throughout.



Safety is not left out, as there is adaptive cruise control, lane assist, you can expect the regular driver and passenger side airbag too. There is a 10-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

The 2020 Ford Explorer is available in 3 trim levels with various standard and optional equipment. There is the base XLT, Limited, Platinum and the high-performance ST. Off-road, the Explorer is more than capable enough to handle even quite unreasonably savage grades, rocks, water and mud.



In summary, the 2020 Ford Explorer is very much in the game among its rivals and it is surely going to give them a serious thought about it because its main purpose is to kill the competition.

Ford has not held back with the revamp of the new Explorer. A new platform, engines, tech and spec levels will ensure it keeps its place at the front half of the full-sized SUV field. It’s better to look at, drive and own than ever before.





Source:

https://autojosh.com/introducing-the-2020-ford-explorer-photos-and-details/

Indiscipline and the ever growing population in Lagos and Nigeria as a whole, has given birth to a menace that might choke us up if it's not curtailed.Yes, I am referring to plastic bottles.

One person dropping a plastic bottle on the road may seem harmless, but imagine a million people replicating this bad habit, we would be left with a filthy environment and clogged drainages, which gives rise to flood.

Just take a look at this :


Image credit: awarenessng

I would save the sermon of indiscipline for another day. Let's talk about plastic roads. You are not alone, I was shocked the first time I heard the term. But they already exist.

Plastic roads are made entirely of plastic or of composites of plastic with other materials, unlike regular roads made with asphalt.

While the idea of plastic roads are relatively new, some countries like India, UK, US, Indonesia are already making some progress in building plastic roads.In January 2019, The Department of Transport announced a £1.6 million(approx. 700M Naira) UK trial of a plastic road technology developed by MacRebur, an asphalt enhancement company based in Scotland.

There are more than 34,000 km of plastic roads in India, mostly in rural areas. More than half of the roads in the southern state of Tamil Nadu are plastic.

Although, it has its disadvantages, the advantages outweigh regular asphalt concrete roads. Plastic-bitumen composite roads have better wear resistance, this means less potholes and less repairs.

Thinking about all the plastic bottles I see when I travel through Lagos, I am forced to think about the possibilities of a pothole free Nigeria, using recycled plastics.This should drastically reduce the massive over-inflated budgets allocated to building and fixing roads. Let's not forget that getting rid of these plastic bottles would also reduce the issue of clogged drainages which lead to floods.

What are your thoughts about this, we would like to hear from you.

Don't forget to share !.

By Donald3d

https://autojosh.com/plastic-roads-the-possible-end-of-pot-holes-and-flood-in-nigeria/

Dr. Cosmas Maduka, the President of Coscharis Group, recently lamented about his decision to invest N1.7billion in an automobile assembly plant in the country.

His lamentation is as a result of the effect of the hesitant implementation of the auto policy in the Nigeria auto industry by the Federal Government.

Maduka is one of Nigeria’s biggest investors in the automotive sector. His company, Coscharis Group, built an auto-assembly plant on a 14-hectare piece of land in Awoyaya area of Lekki-Epe expressway, Lagos. The project is in conjunction with Ford Motor Company.

The plant was inaugurated in October 2017, with an installed capacity for 60 units of vehicles a day.

According to the Coscharis boss, the projections of growth made by his company and other automakers who responded to the policy by building assembly plants – some in collaboration with auto manufacturers from different parts of the world, have been shattered by lack of progress and uncertainties in the industry.

He expressed pessimism about recovering the huge investment he made in the sector in 10 years based on the initial projection of selling 10, 000 vehicles annually. According to him, the current total yearly sales figure has been far below 2,000 cars.


According to the Nnewi-born businessman, he regretted investing more than $50 million {about N1. 7b} in setting up an assembly plant in Lagos.

“Of course, I regret the investment! Why would I not regret the investment? From the benefit of hindsight today, you think it is something that is waste, but at the same time, it is also premature to take a conclusive decision, because, till today, the Federal Government is still hesitant. They {government} have not said a definite ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the auto policy.”, he reportedly said.

He, however, restated his belief in the policy encapsulated in the Nigeria Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) that, he said, was necessary for a viable local auto-manufacturing sector. The problem, he argued, is in the lukewarm implementation by government.

Cosmas Maduka made his feelings known while assessing the NAIDP which took effect about five years ago on July 1, 2014,  and the delay by the Presidency in assenting to the Fiscal Incentive and Guarantees Bill that would have given it a legal framework.



Source:

https://autojosh.com/i-regret-investing-n1-7billion-on-vehicle-assembly-plant-coscharis-boss/

Not Avoiding Or Slowing Down for Speed Bumps or Potholes



Running into a speed bump or pothole too fast or carelessly will destroy your suspension and wheel alignment. To avoid any of these damages to your car, reduce your car speed when you are approaching a speed bump or pothole.



Allowing Your Fuel Tank Run Low



Driving your car when it is low on fuel can cause it some damage. If you run the car low on fuel consistently, you can over-stress the fuel pump and making it hotter which can cause premature damage to it.

When there is not enough fuel in the tank, the fuel pump does not get the same level of protection as it would otherwise.

Your car’s fuel pump is located inside the gas tank. In order to function properly, it needs to be completely submerged in fuel. Typically, this means you need at least ¼ of a tank to keep it submerged.

Long-term exposure to air can lead to early deterioration of the fuel pump.

Leaving it constantly exposed to air can cause the pump to suck in air and generate heat. This also allows sediment to build up in your tank. This can reduce the working life of your fuel pump significantly.

When properly used and maintained, a fuel pump should last at least 100,000 miles if not the lifetime of your vehicle.




Using the Wrong Engine Oil



Choosing the right oil during an oil change is very important. When you are servicing of your car, it is important that you choose the right oil during an oil change.

Oil is very important to the engine. So you should ensure to take great care to use only the recommended product for your car. Using the wrong oil will cause damage to your engine.

The thickness of the oil (viscosity) affects how the oil does its job. Each car engine was designed for a specific viscosity. There is a whole lot of difference between 5W-30 and 10W-30 engine oil. Always stick with the manufacturer recommendation, conveniently found in your owner’s manual.



Ignoring the Check Engine light



When your Check Engine light comes on, it is your car’s way of calling your attention to a fault. The problem could a minor one, but if left untreated, it could turn into something very costly.

Investigate the potential problems yourself or take the car to a mechanic and have it checked.

If the check engine light remains constant, the vehicle’s problem is not an emergency but you should get the fault checked as soon as possible. However, when the check engine light is blinking that means there could be a severe engine misfire and that may cause unburned fuel to be dumped into the exhaust system




Using Wrong Cleaning Products



We often make the mistake of assuming that it does not really matter how we wash your car, as long as you get it clean. Well actually, using the wrong products or accessories can damage your paintwork, making it look dull and scratched.

For instance, Using wrong cleaning products containing ammonia on tinted windows will cause them to be discoloured (purple-tinted).

Most of the cleaners sold for car upholstery can also cause the vinyl and leather seats to fade.

Use a dedicated automotive window cleaner or water instead. Water removes most dirt and debris quickly and easily, without damaging the interior or exterior of a car.

Taking that extra bit of time to do the job properly will keep your car looking as good as new – not only making it look better as you drive but also potentially making it easier to sell.




Ignoring Unusual Sounds



Strange car noises are often a clue that something is wrong with your car. Therefore, when you hear these unusual sounds from your car, it means there might be a fault with your car. Ignoring those sounds can increase the cost of maintenance or cause expensive damage to the car. Do inspect your car carefully when those noises happen.





Not Using the Parking Brake



The parking brake locks the wheels on a car. This way it ensures that the car does not roll or move when parked.

It also protects the transmission when the car is parked. Your car is not meant to be held in place by the transmission. That is the job of the parking brake.

Whether you drive a manual or automatic transmission, you should always use your parking brake. Whenever you park the car, apply the parking brake. That is the only way to make sure that the cables do not seize up. If you have not used the parking brakes in a while, do not try using it without having it inspected!

Also, remember to release the parking brake before driving off.




Filling Your Radiator With Water only


Whether you know it as coolant or antifreeze, this product is just an addictive that serve to keep the water in your car from freezing in cold weather and from boiling and overheating in hot weather. Either of these conditions can cause a breakdown and serious damage to your engine.

So, to keep the water in your engine from freezing or boiling overuse an antifreeze/coolant.

Use a 50/50 mix of water and coolant or as recommended.


Source:

https://autojosh.com/you-are-ruining-your-car-if-you-are-guilty-of-any-of-the-following/

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state, earlier today, donated 40 vehicles to the  Rivers State security formation, code-named ‘Operation Sting’.

The governor made the announcement of the donation in a twitter post he captioned; "To give more support to the "Operation Sting" initiative for the improvement of security in the state. Rivers State Government has dominated 40 more vehicles to the security agencies".

Operation Sting which was set up earlier this year to improve the security of lives and property across Rivers state.

During the launch of Operation Sting, Wike explained that the operation would be fully funded by the state government to tackle criminal elements and reduce crime and criminality in all parts of the state.

See the photos of the handing over ceremony of the vehicles to for use by Operation Sting officials.








Source:

https://autojosh.com/governor-wike-donates-40-vehicles-to-fight-crime-in-rivers-state-photos/

A northern Chinese city recently put a team of robots for traffic police duties.

The robot traffic police will carry out tasks such as patrolling, information consulting and providing accident alerts.

The robots are loaded with sensors and can move autonomously in all directions. They can assist traffic police to take photos of vehicles violating parking rules, direct traffic and verify driver's licenses.

The robots are China's first "robot traffic police" on duty, according to Zhou Zuoying, deputy head of the Traffic Management Research Institute of the Ministry of Public Security.

The robots were designed to be used around the clock in important public locations such as train stations and airports to reduce the work intensity of local traffic police.

Parties including the Handan municipal public security bureau in Hebei Province, in China, developed the robots.







Source:

https://autojosh.com/china-now-uses-robots-for-traffic-control-duties-photos/

One of the most anticipated cars in recent times, the all-new BMW 7 series, is now available in Nigeria.

This beauty-on-wheels is currently available for viewing at the offices of Coscharis Motors - the sole franchisee of BMW brands in Nigeria.

The new BMW 7 series comes with a more distinctive, luxurious and outstanding dynamics.

It stands out with its prestigious, elegant appearance, superlative comfort and exceptionally sporty performance, a combination that only the this 7 Series delivers in its class.

Visually, the new BMW 7 Series looks like a completely new model – especially at the front and back. In many respects, it has become even more luxurious, with numerous highly advanced components. This includes more powerful and fuel-efficient petrol engines, a new, pioneering infotainment system and the latest driver assistance systems.



According to Cletus Aregbeshola, Marketing Manager for BMW, Coscharis Motors; “around three-and-a-half years on from the introduction of the sixth generation in 2015, the BMW 7 Series Sedan has undergone a wide ranging and effective updates. These updates have positioned the flagship model as a trendsetter, introducing world-firsts that are being copied by other manufacturers.”

The sixth-generation BMW 7 Series Sedan also sets standards in terms of providing both maximum ride comfort and a sporting and dynamic driving experience. This is due to an advanced chassis design complete with a self-levelling two-axle air suspension included as standard. With its intelligent mix of aluminium, high-strength steel and a body structure benefiting from magnesium and carbon reinforcements (Carbon Core), it also has the lowest weight amongst its competitors.



Other competitors such as the Audi A8, Porsche Panamera and Lexus LS lag considerably behind the two top models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, both in terms of sales volume and in being perceived as the world’s most prestigious volume-produced luxury sedans (Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Maybach excepted). All models but the M760Li and 745Le xDrive are available in a short- and a long-wheelbase version.

Coscharis Motors offer sales and service networks for the BMW brands across Nigeria.

Currently, her BMW sedan range includes 7, 6, 5, 4, 3 and 2 Series. The X Range includes X6, X5, X4 and X3.

At Coscharis, orders have already been placed for this latest and first ever BMW X7.














https://autojosh.com/coscharis-debuts-the-all-new-bmw-7-series-in-nigeria/

Peace Mass Transit (PMT) Limited, has unveiled a unique staff welfare package that transforms its bus drivers to owners of such vehicles in record time.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Dr. Sam Maduka Onyishi, is optimistic the new policy will bring about a better safety record and in addition, give drivers an assured sense of belonging and responsibility to handle vehicles in their possession with more care.

The policy comes into effect Monday, July 1, 2019. It is the first of such innovation in the transport industry in Nigeria and code-named Driver-To-Owner (DTO) Scheme

It is on record that PMT pioneered the speed limiter innovation in commercial buses in Nigeria 10 years ago. Then Corp Marshal, Osita Chidoka, personally visited PMT headquarters at Emene, to commission the project.

Dr. Onyishi, who announced the new policy to a gathering of excited drivers at the Emene headquarters of the Peace Group Friday, told them all PMT buses in their possession had technically become theirs, and would formally change ownership if and when they made steady financial returns up to an agreed amount into the account of the company, in due course.

It is widely acknowledged that drivers of commercial vehicles are generally more considerate and safety conscious if and when they have an economic stake in the vehicle they operate.

Dr. Onyishi told them that from Monday, July 1, they would effectively become owners of the buses they drive, while assuring that the new policy was well-thought-out and particularly designed to appreciate and empower drivers in the service of PMT.

Dr. Onyishi recalled while addressing the staff that he had promised the present Corps Marshall, Boboye Oyeyemi, during his maiden visit to PMT, that as Chief Executive officer, he would continue to think out of the box and make necessary sacrifices to improve safety on the Nigerian highways. The DTO, he added, was in partial fulfillment of that pledge

The over 3000 buses in the PMT active fleet are involved in the scheme in the first instance, in addition to the 200 units of new Kingo Hiace buses to be injected shortly. They are undergoing final stages of installation at the Peace Mass Auto Assembly Plant.

The CEO told the staff that the DTO policy was meant to reward hard work and create future PMT drivers and their families would look forward to with assurance and pride.

Prior to the introduction of the DTO, PMT had had, over the years a reward policy for diligent drivers on long service. Under this policy, drivers who had put in 15 years and above in PMT service are entitled to a bonus of a fairly used vehicle on retirement.

PMT is the leading mass transit company in the country with operational depots in over 65 locations across the federation.

She has been around for over two decades.

https://autojosh.com/peace-mass-transit-transfers-bus-ownership-to-drivers

The name Joe King Kologbo would hardly ring a bell in Nigeria today.

He was a highlife guitarist and composer that rocked the Nigerian music scene in the 1960s and ‘70s.

Though of Yoruba ancestry, he was born in Warri, in today's Delta State sometime in the 1930s.

He was based in Aba in what is today's Abia state. Then, Aba was a trendy centre of music and fashion, and it was home to several popular music bands back then.

At Aba, he built his music career playing with Eastern Star Dance Band at the Atlantic Hotel.

Since he was based in the East during his early days, he was not as well known nationally as some of the other highlife players of the time, like his friend Fela Kuti.

However, his music suffered a setback during the Civil War that broke out in 1967.

Joe King Kologbo was stranded in Ghana when the Biafran War broke out.

He would later return after the war to Nigeria, where he joined his friend, Fela Kuti.

He never played or collaborated with Fela on any song. Instead, he joined The Victor Olaiya Band.

Joe King Kologbo was known for some popular highlife songs. However, his most popular song was “Sugar Daddy”.  The song was an experimental highlife/disco outing.

For the album cover for Sugar Daddy, he had to “borrow” Fela’s Range Rover.

According to his son, the picture was taken in front of a studio somewhere.

“When my father saw the car he said, ‘Hey let’s take a picture with it.’  The picture was later used as the album cover for “Sugar Daddy”.

The Range Rover was one of about 50 cars owned by Fela then.



Source:

https://autojosh.com/this-musician-borrowed-fela-kutis-range-rover-for-his-album-cover-photo/

This is the reconstruction site of the NPA Jetty at CMS, Marina Lagos.

The project has been in a state of abandonment since 2016.

In 2016, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) cancelled all procurement proceedings for 47 projects. The reconstruction of this Jetty was one of the projects.

According to the NPA, that procurement processes for the 47 projects were stopped for the public interest.

The cancellation was on the orders of the current governing board of the Authority, which was inaugurated on Thursday, September 22, 2016.

It was claimed that due process was not followed in the award of the contracts for the projects.

The reconstruction of the NPA Jetty at CMS, Marina has remained abandoned since then.

Dutum Company Limited was in charge of the reconstruction before the project was abandoned.






Source:

https://autojosh.com/marina-jetty-cms-when-would-the-reconstruction-work-there-continue-photos/