Innoson's EVs: Overview

Innoson Vehicles Manufacturing (IVM) has taken an unforeseen step in its journey to become one of Africa's largest automobile manufacturers. At a time when major vehicle manufacturers across the globe are easing their electrification plans, IVM seems to be moving in the opposite direction, surprisingly in Nigeria, a country plagued with power infrastructure decay. 

As announced on the company's website, their first dabble into the full EV world comes in four variants: 

i. Innosson IVM Link, 201 km

IVM Link

ii. Innosson IVM EX01, 200km

IVM EX01

ii. Innosson IVM EX02 330km

IVM EX02

iv. Innosson IVM EX02 , alternative price option

IVM EX02 AP

The IVM Link and IVM EX01 seem identical in pictures. We're unsure of the differences between the EX02  and EX02 (alternative price option). One thing is sure however, the marketing department need to come up with better names. 

No specific prices announced yet, but he EX02's pricing starts at 38,000,000 only. That's certainly expensive.

There's no information on the interior, charging times, number of electric motors, acceleration times, crash rating, driver aides, vehicle dimensions etc. available on the IVM website.

However, the EX02 does bear a striking resemblance to the Nanmi 01, announced by the Dongfeng Motor Corporation, announced late 2023, with production starting in 2024. It is offered with two lithium iron phosphate battery packs; one with a capacity of 31.45 kWh and range of 330 km (210 mi) and another with a capacity of 42.3 kWh and range of 430 km (270 mi). Both variants are powered by a front-mounted permanent-magnet synchronous motor which has an output of 70 kW (94 hp) and 160 N⋅m (120 lb⋅ft) of torque. This should be adequate for city driving. 

Dongfeng Nanmi 01

To quell range anxiety, IVM does claim to be working on expanding charging infrastructure across Nigeria. No one is sure how, as there's no information on the present number, type, or capacity of charging stations they presently own. With the claimed ranges, it is obvious these models are intended for mainly city driving.

Considering Nigeria's present power problems, cost of lithium batteries, absolute absence of charging infrastructure in Nigeria, and slowdown on EV plans by the big automakers, one would argue that hybrids may have been a better option. Innosson seems to have a different opinion, so we'll just have to see.

References

i. https://www.innosonvehicles.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-ivm-electric-vehicles/

ii. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nammi_01