JOHANNESBURG: Indian auto manufacturer Mahindra has launched its Scorpio Pik-Up range in Tunisia in partnership with the ETS Zouari Group, as it seeks to consolidate its presence on the African continent.

A special state-of-the-art facility has been set up to assemble the vehicles with an annual capacity of 2,000 units per annum there.

The body, chassis, suspension and powertrain will be assembled by ETS Zouari.

"The increasing liberalisation of the Tunisian economy and automotive industry has created an environment which is conducive for assembly operations.

"Our partnership with ETS Zouari will help us tap this potential," Ruzbeh Irani, Chief Executive - International Operations, Automotive & Farm Equipment of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd said during the launch.

"Mahindra has carved a distinct niche for itself in markets across the globe with its unique combination of rugged utility and style," Irani added.

"With this launch, we are also consolidating our presence in the Agadir Pact region and in Africa as a whole.

"The Mahindra Pik Up is part of our global range of vehicles and has been successfully launched in several markets in South America, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa, including South Africa.

"With its contemporary looks and rugged nature, the Pik Up is well suited for the international market.

"It has been adapted for African road conditions and I am sure that the vehicle's unique value proposition will appeal to customers in Tunisia," ETS Zouari Group Chairman Hafed Zouari said adding Tunisia was one of the fastest growing economies in Africa.

"Launching the Mahindra Scorpio Pik Up in the Tunisian market is in line with our objective of offering the customer world-class vehicles.

"We believe that the Mahindra Scorpio Pik Up offers a strong value proposition that will make it a preferred vehicle in this market.

"In the due course of time, we will also introduce the Scorpio Double Cab and other Mahindra vehicles in the local market," Zouari said.

Source : economictimes.indiatimes.com