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Geely Nigeria, in partnership with Mikano International, the exclusive partner of Geely Autos in the country, Thursday, May 27, 2021, launched the Geely Coolray into the Nigerian market with style, describing it as the MOST hi- tech and powerful crossover SUV .
The grand launch, which took place at the Geely Nigeria’s flagship showroom in Victoria Island, Lagos, witnessed the reveal of the Coolray which comes in two trims – Dynamic GS and Sport plus GF.
Welcoming guests to the high-profile event, executive chairman, Mikano International Limited, Mofid Karameh, explained that Geely Coolray is the result of years of dedication and commitment towards providing premium, quality vehicles at affordable prices.
“Geely Nigeria as you now know is the result of an EXCLUSIVE partnership between Mikano International and Geely Auto. A POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP that is based on the strength of two companies that share a common vision; making premium products and services a standard for EVERYONE,” Karameh said, adding, “Mikano International for over 28 years has grown into a leading solution provider in the Power Generation, Steel Fabrication, Electrical & Lighting, Heavy Construction Equipment/Forklifts, Automobile and general Civil Works Industries with fully operational showrooms and branch offices in major cities nationwide.
“We are the Largest Assembler of Power Generating Sets in Africa and we operate a State-of- art Workshop for our Maintenance Services and manage the Sales and services of globally recognized brands as YORC, PERKINS AND MPU
“Our power solutions also extend to IPP’s and we are proud to say that we currently run huge projects nationwide providing all required megawatt capacities.
“Over these years, we have built strategic partnerships and relationships and marked notable milestones, the latest of which is the Mikano- Geely partnership.
“Our provision of solutions include:
- Steel Fabrication- our steel factory is currently one of the largest in West Africa that meets International standards
- Heavy Equipment and Forklifts- we have been the sole distributor for Hyundai in Nigeria, gaining raecognition for our accomplishments with Hyundai.”
MD, Mikano Motors, Lokman Jouni & MD, Mikano Power, Firas Mamlouk, at the unveiling
The chairman disclosed that the group hasnow diversified and has three sister companies, namely;
- Mikano Medicals (AFRIMED)- producing high quality disposable face- masks, sanitizing tunnels and syringes
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- Mikano Foods- producing world- class snacks; quality pastry, cookies and chocolate that appeal to a wide variety of palates in a state of the art facility
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- Mikano Construction: Delivering excellence in the Nigerian construction Industry, in fact this showroom is a testament to the work done by Mikano Construction
Explaining further Mikano’s partnership with Geely, Karameh said: “Our journey into the auto industry comes with the Mikano Motors sub- division that Geely Nigeria comes under. Our steps into the Automobile have led us to building a world- class assembly plant in our ultra- modern complex fondly referred to as KARAMEH CITY. Our Geely models are currently being assembled here, adhering strictly to global industry standards with the best qualified professionals on board.
“The Geely partnership was cemented in 2019, a result of the recognition of 2 brands with expansion and provision of quality products, after sales services and customer satisfaction as key goals. Just like Mikano, Geely Autos had grown over the years and registered huge accomplishments and we are proud to be partnered with them to bring hi- tech and innovative autos to the Nigerian market.
“Geely Nigeria offers the best value proposition with all our premium cars coming witha 5year/ 150,000km best in country warranty, Guaranteed resale value via a buy back plan, meaning after a few years of driving your Geely vehicle, we can buy it back from you and you drive off with an upgrade! We offer the lowest maintenance costs regarding affordable and readily available spare parts and after sales service, Financing options to make the ownership of our premium vehicles easier on our customers and all of this is and more, 100 percent backed by Mikano’s assured guarantee. With this, I would like to thank you once again for joining us here today for the launch of the Exceptional Coolray and know that you can always expect something exceptional from Geely Nigeria with the support and full backing of Mikano guarantee. “
What makes Geely Coolray tick
Globally recognised for its exceptional hi- tech and powerful features for comfort, safety and convenience, the Coolray is the crossover SUV that stands out in its category. Its sporty persona is accentuated by sleek full LED day running lamps, an expanding Cosmos grille and a rear double spoiler with the “S” logo* with Carbon Fiber finish accentuating the eye-catching exterior. Standing with 196mm ‘best- in- class’ ground clearance for a smoother ride on rough and uneven roads, the perfect match for Nigerian roads, the Coolray comes with an interior which showcases an enveloping cockpit with a smooth blend of comfort and technology.
Other unique features of the Coolray include standard soft black leather dashboard, ergonomic sporty seats with real stitching, 10.25-inch floating full HD touchscreen, Reverse camera and sensors, Digital AC, LED fog lamps, Remote Engine Starter, 17 inch Diamond Cut Alloy wheels and a Full Sports package (Turbo engine with 7 Speeds Automatic Dual clutch Transmission, Red- highlight Grille, Sporty front & rear bumpers, Carbon fiber finish lip spoiler and diffuser and side skirts and 4 functional chrome exhaust pipes).
The Coolray is powered by a best-in-class 1.5-litre turbocharged GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine that produces 177 hp and 255 Nm of torque which is almost double the power of all its class competitors in the Nigerian market. This low-fuel-consumption (6.1km per litre) engine is connected to a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. The engine, co- developed with VOLVO (Geely Holdings have been the owners of VOLVO Autos, since 2010) shares 90 percent of VOLVO power train suppliers and 10 percent of VOLVO approved suppliers adhering strictly to Volvo standards.
The Coolray has performed admirably in other markets, easily becoming a top-seller among the 5-seater subcompact crossover SUVs based on its design, performance and hi-tech offerings.
Technology
From a Remote engine starter to an Electronic Parking Brake with Auto hold, the Coolray comes with hi-tech features for ease and convenience. The most intriguing of these is the G-pilot system that includes the Automatic Parking Assistant* (with levels of up to L2 Autonomous drive), Sensors and cameras around the car*, for an extra sense of awareness and safety, Hill traction control, Cruise control and Blind spot detection*.
The G-pilot system is complemented by the 10.25-inch color Full HD floating touchscreen infotainment system with a smart ecosystem that provides a real-time view of the car in 3D*, as well as an eagle- eye view* of the cars surroundings. The panel is also enabled with seamless connectivity and an easy to use multifunctional digital control. This is supported by an exceptional soundstage, fully customizable sound system with true and pure surround sound.
Architecture and Powertrain
The Coolray is the premier model built on Geely’s signature B- Segment Modular Architecture (BMA). The BMA is Geely’s global- leading architecture that allows for flexible and dynamic production, enabling different vehicular styles to be built on this singular architecture. With the BMA, the Coolray can accommodate the latest and most advanced 1.5 Turbo GDI.
The 1.5 Turbo GDI, validated by Geely and Volvo, goes above and beyond the industry standard –designed to last a minimum 15 years or 350,000 km trouble-free, by far higher than the industry standard of 10 years or 200,000 km. The Coolray uses a MacPherson independent suspension system up front and Torsion beam rear suspension that is responsive enough to minimize the shock of irregular and uneven roads.
Driving Performance
At the heart of the Coolray is the turbo-charged 1.5-Litre engine producing energy that efficiently translates to an exceptional, adrenaline fueled driving experience. 3 driving modes change the gear ratio, damping control, turbo boost & steering stiffness. The Coolray’s acceleration responds smoothly to pedal pressure at low and high speeds without any lag. In Sport mode, the revs come quicker and hold longer, transferring the full energy of the car to the wheels for a more fun drive.
Exterior
Built to give a distinctive first impression, the Coolray’s design follows Geely’s latest “Accelerating through Time” aesthetics. The wing-shaped chiseled waistline complements the stylish ‘Wings of Time’ tail lamps and outlines the exceptional power inherent in the Coolray. An aggressive “expanding cosmos” grille, front bumper and diamond cut dual-color turbine-inspired sports rims match the intensity and focus of this sporty machine. 4 functional chrome exhaust mufflers and the fashionable carbon- fiber accents on the lip skirt and side mirrors*enhance its performance look.
Interior
A jet-inspired enveloping cockpit and D-shaped steering wheel with Aluminum paddle shifters* add to the sporty feel inside the Coolray. The interior comprises of 70% soft materials (for better sound and vibration isolation), complementing the cockpit design. Geely also installed an ergonomic electronic shift gear for a perfect and soft knuckle-wrap to nudge the Coolray into action. The 7-inch LCD instrument panel and the intricate ambient lighting add to the mood of the Coolray.
A combination of Leather, Chrome, and Aluminum brushed –finish surfaces with a beautiful color palette exudes class, while the panoramic sunroof provides an exquisite view of the unfolding scenery above the car.
Safety
The Coolray earned a 5-star Crash test rating in the global NCAP federation. Its high-strength steel forms the base of the G-Safety system in addition to the high strength energy absorbing body which houses a comprehensive Passive and Active safety system that protects passenger and pedestrian. It comes with Standard driver and passenger airbags, along with side and curtain airbags*. ISOFIX and child safety locks, Fuel cut-off, Auto door unlock and Collapsible telescoping steering column on impact (rather than the steering column being pushed into the car cabin on impact, it collapses into itself minimizing injury, similarly, the engine simply falls to ground and not into the cabin), all contribute towards Geely’s special emphasis on safety in all their vehicles.
The Verdict
The Coolray is a package of exceptional safety, technology and power delivered in contemporary style. The design, comfort, and seamless driving experience point to Geely’s growth and extensive R&D over the last ten years that has given it access to become one of the world’s leading automotive brands. With Mikano International’s exclusive partnership, the Coolray, as well as all other Geely Nigeria models, offers a Value proposition of:
- Best in country 150,000km/5 Year warranty
- Easy access financing options
- Lowest cost of maintenance and readily available original parts
- World-class aftersales service with available 24/7 roadside assistance and mobile service
- Guaranteed resale value (via trade- in option up to 5 year depreciation)
- Guaranteed best value for money (quality/ price ratio considering quality and technological features and advancements)
- Mikano International’s worry- free protection shield.
*Coolray Sport Plus GF trim only
Pricing
Pricing for the Coolray at launch in Nigeria starts from N13.5 Million for the Dynamic GS (financing plans are available). There are five body color options available: White, Silver, Blue, Orange and Red (with 2 tone Combinations available).
The Promise
Maintaining its avowed commitment to providing reliable, durable and high- quality vehicles with premium features as a standard option for Nigerians, Geely Nigeria is backed by Mikano International’s superior positioning in aftersales service and reputation for quality products. Assuring the Nigerian customers of peace of mind with MIKANO protection shield, Geely Nigeria promises best-in-Country warranty, lowest cost of maintenance, guaranteed resale value and guaranteed best value for money, stressing that with the Coolray, there will be no exception.
The well- attended event also featured the Cubana Chief Priest; Chief Osita Iheme – MFR (Pawpaw) ; Emmanuel Emenike- MON (International Footballer); Rebecca Nengi Hampson (Ex-Big Brother Naija member) and Mercy Eke (Past Winner Big Brother Naija), among other stars.
