Kewalram Introduces Fiat Strada, Compact Pickup into Nigerian Market

Bennett Oghifo

Kewalram Chanrai, one of the frontline auto solution providers in Nigeria, has formally introduced the Fiat

Strada, a 1.4 litre pickup into the local market.

The Fiat Strada is introduced with the expected low price and fuel efficient advantages in the pickup market.

Managing Director, Kewalram Chanrai Auto/Transport Vertical, Anil Sahgal, was assisted in unveiling the product by the General Manager Automobile of the company, Mr. Sudeep Mittal, at the company’s Victoria Island office in Lagos on Tuesday.

According to the company, before the introduction of the vehicle in Nigeria, it was subjected to extensive testing on different terrains under extreme conditions covering over 29,000 kilometres in some of the states of the country.

Fiat Strada, according to  Sudeep Mittal, is produced at the Stellantis plant in Brazil, where it emerged as the highest selling pickup last year.

He said the introduction of the vehicle in Nigeria is against the need for a high performance pickup offering great comfort with low operational cost in view of the current high cost of fuel.

He said the Stranda is bringing higher standards in technology, design and safety to the compact pickup market.

“The Fiat Strada serves as a genuine driving force in the evolution of the automotive industry.

“Apart from performance and comfort, fuel economy has become very key in Nigeria now. That’s why we went to look for a pickup that fills this gap. Fiat Strada will give value for money,” Mittal said.

He noted that with over 85,000 units sold in Brazil by the end of September 2023 and a remarkable achievement of 400,000 units since its second-generation launch in 2020, the Fiat Strada is set to conquer the Sub-Saharan African market, including Nigeria.

The compact pickup is the culmination of 25 years of expertise, he said, adding that its design was influenced by the award-winning Fiat Toro and stands out with its remarkable audacity and modernity.

The company says the Fiat Strada’s cargo capacity is unparalleled, capable of accommodating between 650kg and 720kg, depending on the version, and offering up to 1,354 litres in the single-cabin model, making it exceptionally suited to a variety of professional and personal needs.

It gives 11.8km/L fuel efficiency in city driving and 12.4km/L on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient pickups on the road today.

Its iconic LED headlights emits 20 per cent brighter light than its competitors, the company says.

The Strada is described as a technological marvel, equipped with advanced technologies such as stability control, hill start assist, and TC+.

The company says Fiat Strada ensures optimal traction, even on the most challenging terrains.

The Strada’s interior provides a cocoon of comfort, with abundant storage compartments, paired with cutting-edge air conditioning; it ensures that every trip is as enjoyable as the previous one.

On safety, the Strada is equipped comprehensively, boasting two airbags, pretensioner seat belts, and the Isofix system for young passengers.

“Even in the unfortunate event of an accident, it has been designed to minimize risks to pedestrians.

“What truly sets the Strada apart is its versatility. It seamlessly functions as both a reliable workhorse and an elegant travel companion, representing a perfect fusion of modernity, comfort, technology, and safety.”

Chief Operating Officer, Stellantis Middle East & Africa, Mr Samir Cherfan, in a statement, said, “The introduction of the Fiat Strada in Sub-Saharan Africa marks a significant milestone for Stellantis.

“The Fiat Strada is a flexible partner for individuals who welcome change and push their limits because it combines the practicality of a family vehicle with the dependability required in a business environment.

“With this new vehicle, we expand our range of mobility solutions into the emerging entry-level pick-up segment, catering to the needs of our Sub-Saharan African customers.

“This reaffirms our commitment to strengthening our leadership in the light commercial vehicle (LCV) market within the region.

“In conclusion, the new Fiat Strada is much more than just an automobile. It embodies a promise – a promise of excellence, innovation, and reliability, all offered at a price that outperforms competitors in the Sub-Saharan market.”