New Assembly Facility opened by Mahindra in KZN

Mahindra South Africa new purpose-built plant significantly increases capacity and technical sophistication compared to the brand's first 2018 assembly site nearby. Built to Mahindra's global manufacturing standards, it features advanced quality control systems, extended production lines and customisation zones for South African customers.

'Our original facility played a pivotal role in establishing our local footprint,' says Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa. 'As demand for our locally assembled Pik Up range continued to rise, we needed a facility with the scale, flexibility and technology to meet future growth while maintaining world-class quality.'

The new facility can assemble more than 1 000 Pik Up models a month and can expand as demand grows. It also has the flexibility to accommodate new models and use more locally sourced components. Mahindra's global engineering teams are working with local suppliers to boost localisation and support South Africa's industrial growth.

Earlier this year, Mahindra and the Industrial Development Corporation launched a feasibility study into establishing a full-scale manufacturing plant. Insights from the Durban facility will shape this study.

'This investment underscores our confidence in South Africa as both a manufacturing base and a key growth market for Mahindra globally,' adds Gupta. 'It reflects our commitment to creating jobs, supporting local industry and delivering robust, reliable vehicles.'

Sachin Arolkar, Head of International Operations, says: 'South Africa is a cornerstone market in Mahindra's international growth strategy. This new facility not only strengthens our ability to serve local customers but also enhances our regional manufacturing capabilities.'

Since 2018, Mahindra has grown into a top 10 best-selling brand in South Africa and is among the country's fastest-growing automotive brands.