Dangote Group, one of the most respected conglomerates in the country, has demonstrated its resolve to dominate the nation?s automobile sector, especially in the passenger car and commercial sector.

Dangote, which took the franchise for the Peugeot brands few years ago and later Sinotruck brand, has continued to rollout models from its two plants in Kaduna (Peugeot) and Lagos (trucks).

Dangote, in a significant move to become a leading player in the sector, has commenced the assembling of the Peugeot 3008 GT model at its Kaduna plant, in addition to other models.

This development marks a major milestone in Dangote Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (DPAN) Limited?s efforts to revitalise the Peugeot brand in Nigeria, which was the most popular brand in the country in the 1970s and 80s.

The Peugeot 3008 GT, with its 1.6-litre high-performance turbo engine, joins DPAN Limited?s existing lineup of locally assembled vehicles, including the Peugeot 301 Sedan and the 5008, a seven-seater SUV known for its spacious interior, stylish design, and modern technology features.

In addition to the 3008 GT, DPAN has also unveiled the Peugeot Landtrek 4?2, a pickup truck with a rear-wheel drive system, powered by a 2.4-litre engine. This move marks DPAN?s entry into the light commercial segment of the market.

According to Umar Isa-Kaita, DPAN?s Chief Commercial Officer, the company is engaged in discussions with auto companies to expand its Peugeot sales and after-sales network by accrediting dealerships across Nigeria.

This initiative aims to enhance the visibility and availability of Peugeot vehicles nationwide, while ensuring satisfactory after-sales support for customers.

The introduction of the 3008 GT and the Landtrek pickup truck is a fulfillment of DPAN?s promise to expand its lineup of locally assembled vehicles.

The company?s Managing Director, Ibrahim Isa Gachi, had assured that these models would follow the Peugeot 301, which was launched in January 2022.

With its Kaduna plant capable of assembling 120 vehicles per day, DPAN is poised to gradually reclaim the Peugeot brand?s former glory in Nigeria?s automotive market.

The company?s efforts are expected to revitalize the industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years.

DPAN is a joint venture between Dangote Industries Limited, Kaduna, Plateau, and Kebbi State Governments, and Stellantis Group, the parent company of Peugeot.

The company?s commitment to assembling high-quality vehicles in Nigeria is a testament to its dedication to the country?s economic development and growth. (Vanguard, but headline rejigged)

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