Mahindra’s new assembly plant boosts KwaZulu-Natal's economy

MAHINDRA South Africa yesterday officially commissioned a new vehicle assembly plant at Dube TradePort’s Industrial Zone 2, more than doubling its production capacity and reinforcing its long-term commitment to KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa’s automotive sector.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI

The multi-million-rand facility will increase Mahindra’s one-shift production of its Pik Up models from under 500 units to more than 1 000 units per month. The move from its original retrofitted warehouse in Dube TradePort to a purpose-built 14 000m? plant marks a significant expansion for the Indian vehicle manufacturer, which first established an assembly operation in Durban in 2018.

Mahindra South Africa CEO Rajesh Gupta said the new facility represents the company’s enduring commitment to the country. “We are here to stay, no matter how difficult the journey is. Over the last two decades, we have faced challenges, but every time we came back stronger because we invested in partnerships and in delivering the best value proposition to our customers,” he said.

“This is an occasion where I speak not only on behalf of Mahindra, but also on behalf of every single person who has played a role in building this partnership. ‘We are here because of you; that’s what we call Ubuntu,’ Gupta said.

EThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba described the investment as “a vote of confidence” in the city, saying that it was succeeding in creating a conducive environment for investment and business to thrive in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal.