Mahindra launches the Pik-Up in Australia

Mahindra & Mahindra, today announced the launch of the highly anticipated utility vehicle Mahindra Pik-Up in Australia in partnership with TMI Pacific.

TMI is an associated company of the family-owned Tynan Motor Group that operates multi-franchise dealerships, service centres and a collection of distribution franchises for Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-Benz Commercial, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Honda, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Hyundai, Subaru and Kia.

The Pik-Up from Mahindra, is a rugged and value for money product that the Australian market has shown interest in. It has a 2.5l common rail turbo diesel engine, which meets Euro 4 emission standards. The vehicle produces 79kW of power and 247Nm of torque, and will be available in single or dual cab to Australian buyers from June.

It also comes with a 3-year 100,000km warranty and 12 month roadside assist.

Dr. Pawan Goenka, prsident, atomotive sctor, M&M, said, "The Mahindra Pik-Up is of a special pedigree in the Mahindra stable. It was the first Indian vehicle in its segment to be unveiled in a global market. The Australia launch is one more milestone, as it marks an entry into another continent for the vehicle. Our dream is to be a household name in this country by providing world-class value for money products that cater to local needs and aspirations. As many across the globe have discovered, Australians will also find that the Mahindra Pik-Up will fulfill their demand for quality at a value for money price."

The vehicle, which is derived from the Mahindra SUV range, comes with the style and comfort of the SUV, with ample interior space and cargo capacity. It is available with either two- or four-wheel drive; both in single and dual cab versions.

Strong market potential
The chairman of TMI Pacific and the Tynan Motor Group of companies, Michael Tynan said, "Our thorough market testing in tough and rugged conditions has ensured that the vehicle will deliver on the expectations of the Australian driver.

"We feel that the vehicle will strongly appeal to rural consumers and tradesmen, however, its large tray, price and cabin size especially in the four door, will also appeal to sportspeople and families. On that basis we have no doubt that we''ll be able to fulfill our initial projection of 600 units sold in the first year," said Tynan.

Pravin Shah, executive vice president, automotive sector, and in-charge of international operations, M&M Ltd., said "The Mahindra Pik-Up is a powerful set of wheels and reinforces Mahindra''s technology-driven product range for global customers. Its state-of-the-art external and internal features are based on customer needs our research has identified. We consider it an honour to be presenting our Pik-Up to Australian customers, who are known to be amongst the most demanding in the world. We are confident that TMI Pacific, with their experience in the auto business are extremely capable of making this happen."

Tynan also said, "As per our initial plans, we have secured 10 dealers for the Mahindra Pik-Up in New South Wales, a complete national roll out with a network of 50 dealers by the middle of next year. TMI Pacific, which will operate from a newly acquired 15,000m2 head office in Sutherland, will be dedicated to servicing the Australian market with all after-market services, spare parts distribution and technical training of specialists.

Design and engineering
The design focus of the Mahindra Pik-Up has been around providing maximum utility and comfort to the consumer and features expansive dimensions, with a length of 5098 mm, width of 1770 mm and height of 1942 mm, offering a roomy interior, in particular excellent rear leg room and interior height. Side profile is distinguished by side steps which are fitted as standard equipment.

Standard features include limited slip differentials on both two and four wheel drive models, air-conditioning, four-wheel drive electrically engaged and automatic hub locks, power steering, power windows, remote central locking and standard sound system with full CD / MP3 player and radio, USB port and an SD card port that allows one to listen to music from a pen-drive or CD cards. Tilt steering, foot steps, fog lights, front and rear demisters are also standard. The instrument cluster has a contemporary look with all controls designed with ease of access and operation in mind. For security purposes, the Mahindra Pik-Up is fitted with an alarm and immobiliser, and offers keyless entry as standard equipment.

It has ventilated disc brakes in the front and drums in the rear. It has independent front torsion bar suspension and an anti-roll bar. Rear suspension is progressive rate leaf springs and hydraulic shock absorbers.

All models make have a five-speed manual gearbox. Off-road driving is considerably enhanced by the 210 mm ground clearance and electronics that allow you to swap to the 4 x 4 mode with a turn of a switch whilst moving.