Izuogu Z-600

Infobox Automobile


name = Izuogu Z-600

The Izuogu Z-600 prototype was the first indigenous Nigerian car. It is also the first automobile of indigenous all-African technology. It was the brainchild of Engineer Ezekiel Izuogu. Launched in 1997, it cause a stir in the hearts of the many Nigerians who hope for a personal car and stimulated the Nigerian media. The car was touted by the then Nigerian chief of Staff General Oladipo Diya.

Design and Specification

The prototype was equipped with a self made 1.8L four cylinder engine that got 18mpg and allowed the car to achieve a top speed of 140 km/h (86 mph). Front Wheel Drive(FWD) was chosen over Rear Wheel Drive(RWD) because a transmission tunnel would be more expensive to fabricate. FWD avoided this. 90% of the car's components were made locally.

The design of the car was very utilitarian resembling a Renault 4 with its upright stance and a front end that resembles the locally assembled Peugeot 504.

To be priced at $2000 it would have been the cheapest car in the world. Clever features like a door bell used in place of a horn ensure it achieves its low price target. Mass production was planned under Izuogu motors located in Naze, Imo state. but too many hurdles mainly financial and political prevented the car from going past the prototype stage.

Current Progress

In 2005 interest from other African countries arose about the Z-600 and Dr. Izuogu invited to South Africa to give a speech on science and technology. The South African government showed keen interest in the car and wanted Izuogu to build it in South Africa.

Optimism surrounded the car until March 11th, 2006, when armed robbers raided the factory of Izuogu Motors taking with them the molds for the engine blocks and crank shaft, mudguards and other components. This was a big setback for the project. Since then not much is known on the status of the car.

External links

* [http://newswww.bbc.net.uk/1/hi/world/africa/77798.stm The all-African dream machine bbc]
* [http://www.thisdayonline.com/nview.php?id=11042 South Africa Eyes Made-in-Nigeria Car]
* [http://www.sunnewsonline.com/webpages/news/abujareports/2006/apr/10/abujaroport-10-04-2006-001.htm Z-600 components stolen]