6th January, 2009

Tough, rugged and value-for-money brand of utility vehicles, the Mahindra Pik-Up range, will be a major sponsor of the upcoming National Finals Rodeo to be held in the Gold Coast from 8th January, 2009.

Claire Tynan, CEO, Mahindra Automotive Australia said, "This is the key event on the rodeo circuit attracting an enormous amount of local and international attention."

"We saw this as a fantastic opportunity to showcase our vehicle and align our brand with top class riders and an audience who fit well with the qualities and ruggedness that the Mahindra Pik-Up represents."

The event will attract Brad Pierce, the World Rookie Bull Riding Champion, who will be amongst many other sensational riders.

A major part of the support crew is the Mahindra Pik-Up which will be involved in a number of functional ways at the Rodeo finals. The ‘Mahindra Pik-Up Men’ will be assisting to collect the bareback and saddle back Bronc riders after their ride and the single cab Pik-Up will be used as a working vehicle both within and outside the arena, taking advantage of its large tray and one tonne plus payload capabilities.

In addition, the vehicles will be on display at the Rodeo Cowboy Consumer Show for visitors to review, and chat with Mahindra staff. $1,000 vouchers will also be handed out to all Consumer Show guests – valid upon a purchase of a Mahindra Pik-Up.

Ms. Tynan says, "We really want visitors to engage with the brand in a fun way, and wish to demonstrate how the vehicle may help in their own day-to-day life, be it on the farm or in the city."

"In these tough economic times, it’s good to know that there is a value-for-money ute which can handle tough terrain, and tougher at-work conditions. We’re very excited to be part of an event which will help us to communicate our fit for purpose work-horse abilities."

The Mahindra Pik-Up, was launched in Australia in June, 2007, by Indian automotive giant, Mahindra & Mahindra and local distributor TMI Pacific. Growing the network to over 20 dealerships across the Eastern Seaboard, the two entities recently formed a joint venture known as Mahindra Automotive Australia, to further build the brand and roll it out across the whole nation.

The utility vehicle, available in a single or dual cab, cab/chassis, 4x4 or 4x2 variants, has a 2.5 litre common rail turbo diesel engine that meets Euro 4 emission standards. It produces 79 kW of power and 247 Nm of torque, and offers plenty of ‘grunt’ to those seeking a value for money option, with a starting price of $19,990 (RRP).

Standard features are ample and include limited slip rear-differential on both two and four wheel drive models, air-conditioning, four-wheel drive electrically engaged on-the-fly and automatic hub locks (4x4 models), 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. Tilt steering column, side-foot steps, fog lights, intermittent wipers and front 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.

Mahindra Pik-Up Price (RRP)
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Single Cab 4 x 2 Cab/Chassis $19,990
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Single Cab 4 x 2 utility $21,990
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Dual Cab 4 x 2 Cab/Chassis $23,990
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Dual Cab 4 x 2 utility $25,990
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Single Cab 4 x 4 Cab/Chassis $22,990
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Single Cab 4 x 4 utility $24,990
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Dual Cab 4 x 4 Cab/Chassis $27,990
Mahindra Pik-Up 2.5 CRDe Turbo Diesel Dual Cab 4 x 4 utility $29,990