India’s Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., the country’s leading utility vehicle manufacturer and a part of the USD 15.4 billion Mahindra Group, today launched its international range of utility vehicles and pick-ups for the Kenyan market. This included its award winning Mahindra XUV 500 SUV, the Mahindra Scorpio SUV and Pick Up range, the Genio Pick-Up and the Maxximo mini-truck.

The company has appointed Simba Corporation as the sole dealer for Mahindra vehicles in Kenya. The dealership that will trade under Xylon Motors will offer the full range of Mahindra vehicles as well as provide complete servicing facilities, testing and an extensive after sales department supplying parts and accessories. This will enable Mahindra to further consolidate its presence in Kenya.

The Mahindra XUV500 is a world class SUV offering an unbeatable combination of aspirational styling, advanced technology and safety features, comfort and convenience and is sure to find favour with customers in Kenya,” said Sanjay Jadhav, Senior General Manager, Exports (Africa & Middle East), Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

Mahindra has a strategic intent and focus for the African continent where it already has a significant presence in automobiles, IT, tractors and energy. The company’s African footprint extends to Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana, Nigeria, Sudan and South Africa where it has a JV, Mahindra South Africa.

Simba Corp has invested close to 600 million shillings in Xylon Motors and will offer new car owners warranty, parts and after-sales service at very competitive pricing. Mahindra already has a significant presence in Kenya where it sells its tractors through M/s Timsales, a  part of the Rai Group.

The Mahindra XUV500 was launched late last year in India with a simultaneous unveiling in South Africa. It has received much acclaim since its launch, with bookings selling out within days, leading to an increase in production. The Mahindra XUV500 has also received over 20 awards from the automotive fraternity in India, clear testimony to this global SUV’s appeal.