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In Nigeria, tricycles, popularly known as Keke NAPEP, have been a crucial means of transportation, especially in urban and semi-urban regions of the country.
However, the rising cost of petrol has caused many Keke riders to turn towards Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) which provides a more affordable and efficient option to run their engines.
In addition to lowering fuel costs, this shift to CNG has also helped in reducing harmful carbon emissions, thereby making the environment even cleaner. If you are also planning to switch to a CNG-powered Keke, it is important that you know which brands stand out in the Nigerian market before going ahead to purchase.
In this article, you will find out the best CNG Keke brands in Nigeria, and the features that make them stand out.
Top CNG Keke Brands in Nigeria
1. Bajaj Auto (Bajaj RE CNG)
Bajaj Auto, a leading Indian automobile manufacturer, is one of the most recognized brands in the Nigerian Keke market. The brand is well-known for producing durable, affordable, and efficient tricycles, and has made a significant impact in Nigeria, especially with its Bajaj RE CNG model.
Features of Bajaj RE CNG:
- Fuel Efficiency: The Bajaj RE CNG is known for its high fuel efficiency, allowing operators to travel longer distances on less fuel. This is a key advantage, especially in urban areas where transportation demands are high.
- Engine Performance: Bajaj tricycles are equipped with powerful yet fuel-efficient engines that ensure smooth operation over long distances.
- Affordability: Bajaj is one of the most affordable brands in Nigeria, making it an attractive option for many Keke operators.
- After-Sales Service: Bajaj Auto has an extensive service network across Nigeria, ensuring that Keke owners have access to reliable maintenance and spare parts.
Price Range: A new Bajaj RE CNG Keke typically costs between ₦900,000 and ₦1.2 million, depending on the model and specifications.
2. TVS Motor Company (TVS King CNG)
Another prominent brand in Nigeria’s tricycle market is TVS Motor Company, an Indian-based manufacturer. TVS is well-known for its robust and fuel-efficient tricycles. The TVS King CNG is one of the most sought-after CNG-powered Kekes in the country.
Features of TVS King CNG:
- Engine Reliability: The TVS King CNG is powered by a reliable engine that ensures consistent performance, even on long trips.
- Comfort: The tricycle offers superior comfort for both the driver and passengers, with a spacious cabin and a smooth ride.
- Low Operating Costs: The TVS King CNG is designed to be cost-effective in the long run, with low maintenance and operating costs. Its CNG system provides excellent fuel efficiency.
- Durability: TVS vehicles are known for their durability, and the King CNG model is no exception, offering excellent value for money over time.
Price Range: The price for a new TVS King CNG tricycle typically ranges from ₦850,000 to ₦1.1 million.
3. KekeNapep (KekeNapep CNG)
The KekeNapep brand, often considered the backbone of Nigeria’s tricycle transportation, has also ventured into the CNG market. Known for its reliability and wide acceptance across Nigeria, KekeNapep offers a CNG-powered version that has become increasingly popular among Nigerian operators.
Features of KekeNapep CNG:
- Efficiency: The KekeNapep CNG is designed to provide excellent fuel efficiency while ensuring that it meets the operational demands of daily use.
- Stability and Safety: KekeNapep CNG vehicles are built to withstand rough roads and offer a stable and safe ride for both drivers and passengers.
- Wide Availability: As a leading brand in the Nigerian market, KekeNapep has a widespread dealer network, ensuring easy access to spare parts and service centers.
Price Range: The price of a KekeNapep CNG tricycle ranges between ₦850,000 and ₦1.2 million depending on the model and region.
4. Lifan (Lifan CNG Keke)
Lifan, a Chinese automobile brand, has also gained traction in the Nigerian market with its Lifan CNG Keke models. Known for their affordability and ease of maintenance, Lifan Kekes are a popular choice for operators who want to minimize upfront costs.
Features of Lifan CNG Keke:
- Affordability: Lifan offers one of the most affordable CNG Keke models in Nigeria, making it a budget-friendly option for many operators.
- Fuel Efficiency: Lifan CNG Kekes are known for their excellent fuel efficiency, helping Keke operators save money on fuel.
- Maintenance and Spare Parts: Lifan tricycles are relatively easy to maintain, and their spare parts are widely available in Nigerian markets.
Price Range: The cost of a Lifan CNG Keke typically falls between ₦750,000 and ₦1 million, making it one of the more affordable options available.
5. Jiangsu Yueda CNG Keke
Jiangsu Yueda is another Chinese manufacturer that has entered the Nigerian tricycle market with its CNG-powered models. While not as widely known as other brands, Jiangsu Yueda has gained a reputation for its affordable pricing and efficient fuel consumption.
Features of Jiangsu Yueda CNG Keke:
- Affordable Pricing: Jiangsu Yueda CNG Kekes are among the most affordable in the Nigerian market, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious operators.
- Fuel Economy: These Kekes offer excellent fuel economy, which is a critical factor for tricycle operators in Nigeria’s competitive transportation industry.
- Ease of Maintenance: Jiangsu Yueda vehicles are relatively easy to maintain, with widely available spare parts and service centers.
Price Range: A new Jiangsu Yueda CNG Keke typically costs between ₦700,000 and ₦900,000.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the best CNG Keke brands in Nigeria, operators have several reliable and affordable options to consider. The Bajaj RE CNG, TVS King CNG, KekeNapep CNG, Lifan CNG Keke, and Jiangsu Yueda CNG models all offer excellent value for money, with their own set of unique features and advantages.
While Bajaj and TVS dominate the premium segment with their higher-end models, brands like Lifan and Jiangsu Yueda provide affordable alternatives for operators on a budget. The increasing availability of CNG refueling stations and government support for alternative fuels mean that the future of CNG Kekes looks bright in Nigeria.
Choosing the right CNG Keke depends on your budget, operational needs, and preference for brand reputation and service network. Whichever brand you choose, investing in a CNG Keke is a smart move for any tricycle operator looking to cut down on fuel costs, reduce emissions, and contribute to a cleaner environment.
