Mahindra commences first CKD operations abroad

Launches the Mahindra Scorpio in Egypt

Cairo, January 14^th, 2008: Mahindra & Mahindra, India’s leading automotive brand with a growing global presence, today announced the launch of the Mahindra Scorpio SUV in Egypt in partnership with the Bavarian Auto Group. The Mahindra Scorpio is currently being exported to Europe, Africa, Asia, Middle East, South America and Australia.

“This launch is a significant milestone for Mahindra as it not only expands our footprint in Africa but also marks the first time the Scorpio is being assembled from CKD kits outside India. With its unique combination of rugged utility and style, the Scorpio has carved a distinct niche for itself in markets across the globe and we are confident that it will create its own space in the Egypt market,” said Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Pravin Shah, Executive Vice President, International Operations, said, “At Mahindra, we have always been at the cutting-edge of technology, whether it is the All New Scorpio, the Bio-Diesel Scorpio or our most recent innovation, the Hybrid Scorpio. In Africa, the Scorpio is being used extensively in over 25 countries and I am sure that customers in Egypt would also be delighted with the Scorpio experience. Moreover, our Egyptian partners, the Bavarian Auto Group have extensive expertise in assembly and distribution of world class automobiles and will help us consolidate our presence in the region,”

Elaborating on the Bavarian Auto Group’s association with M&M to launch the Scorpio in Egypt, Mr. Farid El Tobgui, Chairman, Bavarian Auto Group said, “Launching the Scorpio in the Egypt market is in tune with our objective of offering the customer world-class vehicles.  We believe that the Scorpio offers a strong value proposition that will make it a preferred vehicle in this market.”

Since its launch, the Scorpio has not only emerged as the leader in the UV (Utility Vehicle) segment in India but has also won widespread industry acclaim. It was recently declared an ‘Olympic Brand’, i.e., a brand that is “well known, well loved and has a large core following.” It has also won several prestigious awards from the automotive media, including the CNBC Autocar Car of the Year Award, BBC Wheels Best SUV of the Year and Best Car of the Year awards and the BS Motoring Car of the Year Award.

(Source: Mahindra & Mahindra)