Simba Corporation, has sent out yet another clear signal on its intent to lead the Kenyan automotive market with the local launch of the latest, all new Mitsubishi L200 pickup truck.
With the entry of the all-new Mitsubishi L200 single and double cab pickups, Simba Corp, through its auto sales subsidiary, Simba Colt Motors, is set to further stir the one ton pick-up market.
The local launch of the all-new Mitsubishi L200 “Ultimate Sport Utility Truck” is also part of a global market introduction programme by Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC) which has a strong heritage in producing quality proven pickups.
Featuring improvements in functionality and reliability the all-new L200 Sport Utility Truck (SUT) combines the comfortable interior of a passenger car with the functionality and reliability of a pickup.
Speaking, at a ceremony marking the official launch of the Mitsubishi L200 SUT in Kenya, Head of Sales for Simba Corporation‘s Motor Division, Ameet Shroff, confirmed that the firm has laid out elaborate market penetration strategies as part of its business development efforts.
“We plan to achieve our market share targets through the delivery of quality Kenyan spec vehicles that meet the diverse needs of our customers complemented by our nationwide sales and service capability,” Shroff added.
Statistics from the Kenya Motor Industry (KMI) confirm that the one ton pickup segment remains the most active market class locally. As at 31st August this year, KMI statistics indicate that more than 4,000 pickups have been sold, easily outselling any other market class.
“The launch of the all-new Mitsubishi L200 SUT is yet another signal that we are actively pursuing a bigger slice of the lucrative one ton pickup segment. Simba Corp is well placed to capture a larger market share because of our superior service across the value chain. We offer the complete motoring package from sales to top-tier maintenance, parts, and service for all Mitsubishi models, supplemented by world-class customer care. In addition, we offer tailor made leasing and fleet management solutions for all our vehicles,” said Faruk Allibhai, Sales Manager, MMC.
The all-new L200, SUT, is also more fuel efficient, and comes fully loaded with enhanced safety features and a larger carrying capacity, thanks to its generous cargo bed. Its muscular, sleek and dynamic styling, evokes the form of a well-honed athlete and provides generous interior space, ample payload capacity, and class-leading handling.
The all-new L200 also achieves high levels of safety performance through its durable and sturdy chassis and frame structures designed to deliver quietness and ride comfort at par with a passenger car thanks to its new engine, optimization of the suspension, the strategic placement of sound insulation, absorption and vibration damping materials.
The all-new Mitsubishi L200 pickup achieves superior all-terrain performance with the choice of three modes, including 2WD for maximum fuel economy and two 4WD modes (4H and 4L) to handle different surface conditions. “Our customers have the choice of buying these vehicles outright and through our Simba Hire Purchase or tailor made Simba Leasing programme, tagged as “pay as it suits you”, added Faruk Alibhai.
The L200, has quicker and easier steering with the shortest turning radius, thus delivering a great driving experience. Its sleek and flowing design gives it a dynamic and elegant look that also enhances its aerodynamic performance, thus contributing towards better fuel efficiency.
The all-new L200 joins the range of passenger and commercial vehicles from Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Company (MFTBC), sold and serviced locally by Simba Colt Motors. The cars in the Simba Colt stable include the Lancer EX, ASX, Outlander, Pajero Sport, and the Pajero. The truck product family includes the legendary Canter, the formidable FH, FM and FN trucks, the FJ tipper, FJ concrete mixer and the FZ prime mover. Simba Colt also sells Mitsubishi Fuso buses ranging from 26-seater to 62-seater capacity.
The unveiling of the all-new L200 follows sustained strong sales of new vehicles since the beginning of the year. KMI statistics indicate that single cab (2wd and 4wd) pick-ups have recorded the highest sales this year – accounting for 19.29 per cent of sales. The double cabs (2wd and 4wd) have the third highest sales, at 12.28 per cent of new vehicle sales. Overall, pick –ups account for just over 30% of total industry sales for the first eight months of calendar year 2015.