Kewalram’s all-new Fiat Strada, compact pick-up hits Nigerian market

It was a good start into the new business year of the automotive market as Kewalram Chanrai, one of the auto solution providers in Nigeria formally introduces the Fiat Strada, a 1.4 litre pickup utility vehicle into the local market.

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

Managing director, Kewalram Chanrai Auto/Transport Vertical, Anil Sahgal was assisted in unveiling the product by the general manager, Automobile of the company, Sudeep Mittal, at the Kewalram’s Victoria Island office in Lagos last Tuesday, February 13, 2024.

Before introduction, the Fiat Strada was subjected to extensive testing on different terrains under extreme conditions covering over 29,000 kilometres in some of the states of the federation.

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 noted that, the arrival of the vehicle into Nigeria was in response to the need for a high performance pickup offering great comfort with low operational cost as fuel prices surge.

The Strada is bringing higher standards in technology, design and safety to the compact pickup market and 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 Stranda will give value for money,” Mittal said.

He noted that, with over 85,000 units sold in Brazil as at 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.

Strada 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 carrying 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 delivers 11.8km/liter fuel efficiency in city driving and 12.4km/liter on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient pickups on the road today.

The iconic LED headlights emits 20 per cent brighter light than its competitors.
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 interior provides a cocoon of comfort, with abundant storage compartments, paired with cutting-edge air conditioning ensuring that every trip is as enjoyable as the previous one.

On safety, the Strada is equipped with two airbags, pretensioner seatbelts, and the Isofix system for younger passengers.

“In the 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, 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.”

MIKE OCHONMA