Mahindra eyes global markets as Chinese brands open doors

Mahindra & Mahindra's automotive division chief executive Nalinikanth Gollagunta has said the rapid expansion of Chinese carmakers is helping the Indian automaker enter new global markets. Livemint reports that consumers in established markets are now more open to newer brands because of Chinese entrants, while Mahindra's improved safety ratings and cleaner powertrain portfolio give it access to regions it could not target earlier.

Gollagunta told Livemint that markets with strong incumbent brands are now more receptive, thanks to Chinese carmakers. "If you can look at five Chinese [brands], you can look at one Indian," he said. Mahindra has identified South Africa, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Latin American countries including Brazil for expansion using new pickup trucks and passenger vehicles. The company will also leverage its electric vehicles, such as the BE 6 and XEV 9e, and its new Nu IQ platform from next year.

The global push marks a shift after Mahindra exited several international businesses over the past five years to trim losses. Gollagunta said the company will study each market carefully before committing to launch and scale. Mahindra's exports will also benefit from India's free trade agreement with the UK, the company has said.