Dr. Mukail Akinde, Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, announced the institution’s plans to establish a mini assembly plant for the production of its newly invented electric automated tricycle.
Akinde appealed to the Federal Government and corporate organizations, particularly in the manufacturing sector, to support the polytechnic’s efforts to commercialize the invention. He emphasized that successful mass production would reduce imports, alleviate pressure on foreign exchange, and create employment opportunities for youth.
The tricycle, the first of its kind produced by an institution in Nigeria, was built and assembled at the polytechnic’s innovation center. Akinde revealed that the prototype has a capacity for three passengers and will feature a solar-powered panel for charging.
He expressed the need for additional funding from the Federal Government to foster innovation, research, and development. “We aim to establish a mini assembly plant capable of producing 10 or more tricycles,” Akinde stated.
Alhaji Garba Gashua, Chairman of the polytechnic’s Governing Council, expressed excitement and promised to mobilize support for the project’s realization. He suggested enhancements to the tricycle’s design, including increased passenger capacity....Read Full Article [Click Here>]
Ayinde Abdullahi, Director of Vehicle Electrification at the National Automotive Design and Development Council, praised the initiative and emphasized the potential of government-built raw material companies to boost local production in the automobile industry.
Jide Soyemi, Director of the Innovation Centre, explained that the center was established to provide students with cutting-edge technology not included in the curriculum. He highlighted the center’s focus on artificial intelligence, robotics, drone making, and portable inverters for micro businesses. The electric tricycle is the latest innovation, with students contributing significantly to its development.
Source: Punch Newspaper
