Taguig—As the world increasingly embraces clean mobility, Philippine-based Francisco Motor is charging ahead—literally—by preparing to export its cutting-edge electric jeepney, the Pinoy Transporter, to Nigeria.
Breaking New Ground: From Camarines Norte to West Africa
In a dynamic move earlier this June, FMC sealed a strategic partnership with Nigerian entrepreneur Emmanuel Akpakwu, owner of Space AI Nigeria Ltd. and Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Lagos, to bring Filipino‑made e‑jeepneys to Nigeria. The initial shipment will consist of 100 completely built‑up units (CBUs), soon to be deployed for real‑world testing. Looking ahead, FMC plans to ramp up operations—with aspirations to produce up to 2,000 units in Lagos alone, all while transitioning to local assembly via completely knocked down (CKD) kits to reduce costs.
Most components for these vehicles will be sourced from Camarines Norte in the Philippines, supported by parts from Thailand, Germany, Australia, and China.
Passion Meets Frustration—and the Drive for Independence
FMC Chairman and physicist Elmer Francisco did not shy away from voicing his frustration with the slow pace of government processes and limited local support, which led him to establish a factory in China to keep operations moving while awaiting Philippines‑based facility approval.
But it’s his passion that drives the mission. Obtaining a competitive edge means embracing innovation—from lithium‑ion batteries to green hydrogen technology via partnerships with NetZero Global, HDX (UK), and NextGen NRG (Australia) aiming to fuel vehicles with hydrogen power.
When asked why FMC resists foreign dominance despite global interest, Francisco was unambiguous:
“Francisco Motors will never agree to let foreigners dictate… Only we Filipinos can dictate our own future.”
Why Nigeria—and What’s Next
Nigeria’s transportation system remains heavily reliant on informal, often unsafe modes of public transit. FMC’s Pinoy Transporter—or SPACE Transporter, as it will be branded in Nigeria—offers a modern, safer, and sustainable solution.
The company has arranged a partnership with FutureView Financial Services Ltd., headed by GCEO Elizabeth Ebi, to implement a Filipino‑inspired “boundary‑hulog” installment scheme. This rent‑to‑own model enables drivers to pay for the vehicle via earnings from its operation—empowering them while ensuring financial accessibility.
Operations will begin in Benue State, Nigeria, with Space AI Nigeria spearheading infrastructure development—from charging stations and hydrogen refueling to digital fare systems, maintenance networks, and assembly training. This includes fostering community engagement and involving MSMEs.
Also present at the MOA signing were key Philippine officials—BOI Usec. Perry Rodolfo, PhilExport CEO Sergio Ortiz‑Luis, PCCI President Nina Mangio, and House Speaker Martin Romualdez—underscoring the collaboration’s significance.
FMC’s ambition? To make Nigeria “ground zero” for expansion into 12 neighboring West African countries under the diplomatic guidance of Ambassador Mellejor.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Initial Export Plan | 100 Pinoy Transporter CBUs to Nigeria; eventual scale-up to 2,000 units in Lagos |
| Assembly Strategy | Start with CBUs, transition to CKD for local assembly |
| Tech Approach | Lithium Iron Phosphate EVs; developing hydrogen fuel cell integration |
| Empowerment Model | “Boundary-hulog” rent-to-own scheme |
| Infrastructure & Support | Charging, hydrogen refueling, digital systems, servicing, MSME inclusion |
| Geographic Vision | Launch in Nigeria; expand to 12 West African nations |
Final Take: A Bold Leap for Filipino Innovation
FMC’s plan redefines more than just vehicle exports—it signals a Filipino brand’s confident stride onto the global electric mobility stage. Despite bureaucratic hurdles, Chairman Francisco’s drive blends deep national pride with forward-thinking technology. As Nigeria prepares to become the launchpad for Southeast Asian sustainable transport, Francisco Motors is poised to turn passion into global progress.
