Leon Zhan, China’s TIM Motors CEO wants to end foreign-used car dominance in Nigeria with budget friendly Vehicles
CHINA TIM Motors CEO Leon Zhan Aims to End Tokunbo Dominance in Nigeria with Affordable Chinese Cars
By [ IBI ], Lagos – July 21, 2025
Leon Zhan, the Chief Executive Officer of TIM Motors, has declared an ambitious plan to challenge Nigeria’s long-standing reliance on foreign-used vehicles—popularly known as Tokunbo—by offering brand-new, budget-friendly Chinese automobiles.
“We want to replace 10% to 20% of Nigerian used cars with Chinese new cars,” Zhan said during an industry summit in Lagos, signaling a bold shift in strategy for Nigeria’s evolving automotive landscape.
🚗 TIM Motors' Strategy
TIM Motors, a rising star in Nigeria’s automotive market, serves as the authorized distributor of three of China’s leading automotive brands: Geely Galaxy, MG, and Great Wall Motors. These brands offer stylish, technology-rich, yet affordable vehicles that are increasingly being embraced by cost-conscious African consumers seeking value without compromising reliability.
Leon Zhan believes Nigeria is ripe for a transition from second-hand imports to warranty-backed, factory-new vehicles. He notes that most foreign-used vehicles shipped into Nigeria—primarily from the U.S. and Europe—lack transparency on accident history, mileage, and safety.
“Chinese manufacturers now produce cars on par with global brands, but at a price point Nigerians can afford. That’s the game-changer,” Zhan added.
📊 The Tokunbo Problem
Nigeria imports over 400,000 used vehicles annually, with more than 90% of them pre-owned. This heavy dependence on used cars has led to concerns about:
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Roadworthiness
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High maintenance costs
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Environmental emissions
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Poor fuel efficiency
According to Zhan, TIM Motors intends to replace 10–20% of that used-car traffic with brand-new Chinese vehicles equipped with modern safety features, fuel-efficient engines, and after-sales support.
⚙️ Local Support & Financing Plans
To facilitate this shift, TIM Motors is:
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Building nationwide showrooms and service centers
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Partnering with local banks for auto-financing and installment payment plans
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Offering multi-year warranties on every new car sold
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Training local technicians on EV and hybrid maintenance
🔮 A New Era for Nigerian Drivers?
With the growing presence of Chinese automakers globally, TIM Motors sees Nigeria as a crucial African hub for the expansion of affordable mobility.
“Nigerian car buyers deserve new cars too—not just second-hand leftovers from Europe or America,” Zhan emphasized.
As Nigeria continues to battle inflation and rising transportation costs, Zhan’s mission is timely: deliver new cars that cost less than a used alternative, with more reliability, safety, and value per kilometer.
📌 Quick Facts: TIM Motors in Nigeria
| Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| Geely Galaxy | EVs and hybrids with futuristic tech |
| MG (Morris Garages) | Stylish sedans and SUVs |
| Great Wall Motors | Rugged pickups and off-road SUVs (Haval) |
If Zhan’s vision materializes, TIM Motors could soon be the catalyst that transforms Nigeria’s used-car economy into a thriving new-vehicle ecosystem—one Chinese car at a time.
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