In recent years, India’s automobile industry has been gaining momentum as a key exporter of passenger vehicles. Among the prominent players in this global expansion is Mahindra, a homegrown carmaker with a significant presence across various continents. This year, Mahindra is set to make waves in international markets, including South Africa and Australia. With the launch of its highly anticipated Scorpio N pickup.
Mahindra Entering New Territories
Mahindra’s annual extravaganza, scheduled for August 15 in South Africa, will be a pivotal event for the company. South Africa holds immense importance for Mahindra, where it has been operating since 1996. Moreover, as part of their global aspirations, Mahindra has a substantial presence across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East, and the Asia Pacific region.
Mahindra Z121 Concept – A New Frontier
One of the highlights of the event will be the unveiling of the Z121 concept, a brand-new pickup based on the Scorpio N platform. Unlike the existing Scorpio N SUV. The pickup version boasts a longer wheelbase, allowing for a larger load bed, making it ideal for various cargo requirements. What’s more this configuration mirrors the successful Scorpio Classic, with the SUV featuring a 2.6-meter wheelbase. Whereas the pickup version, known as the ‘Getaway’ in India or ‘Pik Up’ in international markets like South Africa and Australia. It has a wheelbase of a little over 3 meters.
Versatility in Body Styles and Variants
The upcoming Mahindra Scorpio N pickup is expected to be offered in both single- and double-cab body styles, catering to different customer preferences. Additionally, Mahindra will provide both standard and tray-back bed variants, which have found particular favor in specific export markets.
Powertrain Options for Mahindra Pickup
In terms of powertrain, the pickup will offer the same choices as the Scorpio N SUV. Customers will have access to a 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine generating 200 hp of peak power and 370 Nm of max torque (6MT). The 6AT variant boasts a torque output of 380 Nm. Additionally, the diesel engine will be available in two states of tune – one generating 130 hp and 300 Nm, and the other delivering 172 hp and 370 Nm (6MT). With the 6AT variant, torque output increases to 400 Nm. Furthermore, a 4WD option will be available for diesel variants.
Targeting New Heights
With products like the Scorpio N pickup, Mahindra aims to tap into promising markets like South Africa, where pickups, fondly referred to as “bakkies,” enjoy tremendous popularity. In 2022, Mahindra was recognized as the fastest-growing automobile company in South Africa, registering an impressive 78% increase in sales compared to the previous year. Whereas Mahindra pickups played a significant role in this achievement, motivating the brand to introduce the Scorpio N pickup in the country. The Scorpio N not only excels in aesthetics but also stands out for its advanced capabilities, setting it apart from the existing Scorpio Classic.
Australia: A Key Market for Mahindra
Beyond South Africa, Mahindra has a strong presence in over a dozen global markets, with Australia standing as a crucial market for the brand. Recently, Mahindra marked a significant milestone with the opening of its 50th dealership in Australia. The country’s demand for pickups, along with its increasing preference for SUVs like the XUV700 and Scorpio N.
As Mahindra gears up to unveil the Scorpio N pickup, the company is determined to strengthen its position in international markets and further cement its reputation as a reliable and innovative automobile manufacturer.