The Car Conversation Ltd has raised $100,000, approximately ₦134 million. The mobility and energy company will use the funds to expand automotive training programmes across Nigeria, with a focus on electric vehicles. The raise was announced by its founder, Angela Debowale. The money comes from investors.
The company describes itself as an EV charging company focused on growth. Alongside training, it works on charging systems and is building out charging stations around Nigeria. It also offers free consultations to anyone interested in its services.
Nigeria’s automotive sector has long depended on imported, mostly petrol-powered vehicles. Local assembly is thin. Skills training is thinner. Technicians learn on the job, often without certification. The National Automotive Design and Development Council has promoted local content for years. Progress has been slow.
Electric vehicles are a newer frontier. Adoption is negligible, and charging infrastructure is almost absent. CNG conversion has gained ground faster. EV training is therefore a bet on a future market rather than the current one. The company is positioning early, and its charging business is aimed at the same gap.
The funds will support training programmes in multiple cities. The training targets young Nigerians and covers practical skills in electric vehicle maintenance and related technologies, including charging system training. The company says the goal is to create opportunities in the automobile industry. The announcement drew congratulations online.
The raise is modest by global venture standards. $100,000 is seed capital. In Nigerian terms, it is significant for a niche training venture. The sector has few players. Most mobility startups focus on ride-hailing, logistics or charging. Training is unglamorous. It is also necessary. Electric vehicles require different skills. High-voltage systems, battery management and diagnostics are not taught in most Nigerian technical schools. The gap is real.
The risks are obvious. The EV market is tiny. Trained technicians may find few vehicles to service, and charging stations will see limited use until more EVs are on the road. The company must generate demand as well as supply. It must build curricula, certify instructors and secure equipment. Batteries and diagnostic tools are expensive. $100,000 will not cover a national rollout. It is a start.
Anyone interested in the company’s training, charging or other services can request a free consultation.
