Table of Contents
Key Point
- Simba Corp led by Kenyan tycoon Adil Popat, expands into the EV market, aligning with Kenya’s shift towards sustainable transport solutions.
- Simba Corp sells two Mahindra XUV 400 EVs to Kenya Power, marking its entry into electric vehicles with plans for further deliveries this year.
- The move builds on Simba Corp’s success in agriculture with Mahindra, signaling a broader strategy to introduce EV versions of current models in Kenya.
Simba Corporation (Simba Corp.), a motor vehicle distributor and diversified business group led by Kenyan tycoon Adil Popat, has made a significant foray into the electric vehicle (EV) market. This strategic move aligns with Kenya’s ambitious objective to transition from traditional diesel and petrol vehicles to more sustainable energy solutions.
In a groundbreaking transaction, Simba Corp has sold two units of the all-electric Mahindra XUV 400 sports utility vehicle (SUV) to Kenya Power, each valued at Ksh9 million ($0.70 million). This sale marks the beginning of Simba Corp’s entry into the EV sector, with plans to deliver an additional four units to the electricity distributor later this year.
The expansion into EVs builds on Simba Corp’s successful partnership with Mahindra in the agricultural sector, where they have been supplying tractors to meet growing mechanization needs.
Simba Corp’s EV milestone with Kenya Power
“We have recently launched our passenger vehicle range from Mahindra, and sales have already commenced. We are receiving numerous inquiries from potential customers eagerly anticipating delivery,” said Dinesh Kotecha, CEO of Simba Corp.
Simba Corp, historically recognized for its distribution of petrol and diesel-powered vehicles from global automakers like Mitsubishi, Mahindra, and Proton, is now gearing up to introduce electric versions of its current internal combustion engine (ICE) models.
“Several of the brands we represent in Kenya are preparing to introduce EV solutions, covering both passenger and commercial vehicles,” Kotecha highlighted. “For example, we are actively working on offering EV Canters from Fuso and the EV Phoenix from Ashok Leyland, which are equivalents of our existing ICE models.”
Simba Corp’s main competitors, Isuzu East Africa, and CFAO Kenya, are heavily investing in hydrogen technology, positioning it as a formidable contender in the clean energy sector. Kotecha emphasized that the success of these new products hinges on favorable government policies, market demand, and the rapid development of the country’s charging infrastructure.
Simba Corp: Growth under Adil Popat’s leadership
Founded in 1948 by Abdul Karim Popat, Simba Corp has evolved under Adil Popat’s leadership from a modest used-car sales enterprise into one of Kenya’s leading diversified business groups. The conglomerate operates across various sectors including motor sales and service, assembly, hospitality, finance, and real estate.
Key subsidiaries of Simba Corp include the 20th Century Plaza, Xylon Motors (Mahindra), Bavaria Auto (BMW), Simba Transport Solutions, Africa Fleet Management Solutions, and Avis Car Rental. Adil Popat’s commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of perfection have firmly established him as one of Kenya’s most prominent business figures.
