Supply Chain Strategy
Zolair Energy Solutions has developed a comprehensive supply chain strategy to ensure reliable, cost-effective, and scalable production and distribution of our e-tricycles and battery systems. Our approach combines local assembly with strategic international partnerships to maximize economic impact in Nigeria while maintaining quality and reliability.
Supply Chain Overview
Manufacturing Strategy
We employ a hybrid manufacturing approach with final assembly in Nigeria and strategic component sourcing from established global suppliers. This model allows us to maintain quality while creating local jobs and reducing import duties on complete vehicles.
Component Sourcing
Our multi-tier supplier network includes primary suppliers in China, India, and Europe, with secondary suppliers in South Africa and Kenya. Critical components have at least two qualified suppliers to mitigate supply disruptions.
Logistics & Distribution
We've established dedicated shipping lanes with preferred freight partners and maintain strategic inventory buffers at our Lagos assembly facility. Our distribution network leverages existing transportation infrastructure with optimized routes.
Quality Control
Our comprehensive quality assurance system includes supplier certification, incoming component inspection, in-process testing, and final product validation. Every battery and e-tricycle undergoes rigorous testing before deployment.
Key Supplier Partnerships
| Component | Primary Supplier | Secondary Supplier | Local Content Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tricycle Chassis | Jxxx Kxxxx Vehicle Co. (China) | Bxxxxx Auto Ltd. (India) | 30% local fabrication by Year 3 |
| Electric Motors | Bxxxx Tech Co. (China) | xxxxx GmbH (Germany) | Assembly in Nigeria by Year 2 |
| Battery Cells | xxxxxx Energy (China) | xxxxx Inc. (USA) | 50% local production by Year 4 |
| Battery Management System | Zolair Proprietary (In-house) | xxxxx Devices (USA) | 100% local assembly from Year 1 |
| Controller & Electronics | xxxxx Controllers (China) | Cxxxxx Instruments (USA) | Testing and calibration locally |
| Swapping Station Hardware | Zolair Proprietary (In-house) | Sxxxxx Electric (France) | 80% local fabrication from Year 1 |
Production Scaling Timeline
Q2-Q3 2025
Initial Production
• Assembly line setup in Lagos facility
• Production capacity: 500 e-tricycles per month
• Battery production: 2,000 units per month
• Focus on quality control and process optimization
• Training of initial production workforce
Q4 2025
Production Ramp-Up
• Expansion of assembly line capacity
• Production capacity: 1,000 e-tricycles per month
• Battery production: 4,000 units per month
• Implementation of semi-automated processes
• Onboarding of additional production staff
Q1-Q2 2026
Full-Scale Production
• Second assembly line installation
• Production capacity: 1,500 e-tricycles per month
• Battery production: 6,000 units per month
• Increased automation and efficiency
• Expansion of local component manufacturing
Q3-Q4 2026
Regional Expansion
• Satellite assembly facility in Ghana
• Combined production: 2,000+ e-tricycles per month
• Battery production: 8,000+ units per month
• Regional supply chain integration
• Export capabilities to neighboring countries
Supply Chain Risk Management
| Risk Category | Specific Risk | Impact | Mitigation Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Disruption | Component shortages | High |
• Dual-sourcing for critical components • 3-month inventory buffer for key parts • Regular supplier audits and forecasting |
| Logistics | Shipping delays | Medium |
• Multiple freight partners • Staggered shipping schedules • Alternative port arrangements |
| Quality Control | Component defects | High |
• 100% incoming inspection • Supplier certification program • Regular quality audits |
| Regulatory | Import restrictions | Medium |
• Government relations program • Compliance monitoring • Accelerated local content plan |
| Currency | Exchange rate volatility | Medium |
• Hedging strategies • USD-based supplier contracts • Local sourcing to reduce forex exposure |
| Political | Policy changes | Low |
• Diversified production locations • Engagement with multiple stakeholders • Flexible business model |
Local Economic Impact
Job Creation
Our supply chain strategy will create over 500 direct manufacturing jobs in Nigeria by 2026, with an additional 1,500+ indirect jobs in the supply ecosystem. We prioritize local hiring and provide comprehensive technical training programs.
Skills Development
We've established partnerships with technical colleges in Lagos and Abuja to develop specialized training programs in electric vehicle assembly, battery technology, and quality control. These programs will create a skilled workforce for the emerging e-mobility sector.
Local Supplier Development
Our supplier development program identifies and nurtures local businesses capable of manufacturing components to our specifications. We provide technical assistance, quality management training, and phased contracts to build capacity.
Technology Transfer
Through our manufacturing operations, we're transferring advanced production technologies and processes to Nigeria. This includes battery assembly techniques, electronic systems integration, and modern quality control methodologies.