Auto dealer Simba Corporation has unveiled Ashok Leyland ECOMET Truck model targeting players in Kenya's public service transport populary referred to as matatu as competition in the country's light-duty trucks segment hots up.

Naresh Leekha, the Group Managing Director, Motors Division, at Simba Corporation, the said the firm targets growth in the Mount Kenya, Eastern and Rift Valley regions.

The unveiling of the truck offering coincided with the opening of a new dealership in Thika Town, Swanley Motors, which now enhances the company's efforts in gaining market share by positioning the 7-tonne truck, in the competitive 7 to 10-tonne trucks category that in 2023 registered total sales of 1,378 units.

“The launch of Ashok Leyland Ecomet model in Kenya fulfills a gap in our product range and strategically positions Simba Corporation as a comprehensive transport solutions provider to meet the diverse needs of the Kenyan customer.

"Priced at Kes 4.5 million, the ECOMET is a versatile solution that can easily convert into a 29 or 33-seater bus, which gives us an opportunity to tap into the larger public and mass transport segments of the market,” said Leekha.

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Simba Corporation through its subsidiary Deluxe Trucks and Buses now aims to capture a wider market share while providing customer solutions beyond the traditional trucking needs such as hardware, mattresses, water tank and other logistics segments.

“With the current state of the economy, customers want a truck that is well priced and which they can easily present to their financing partners for support without the fear or concerns of failure to perform”, said Mr. Varvany.

Targeting key business segments such as corporate and public service transport, agribusiness and processing, construction, and education transport sectors, Varvany added that the new Thika dealership offering sales, spares, and vehicle servicing will also position other Simba Corporation brands in the region.