Toyota Kenya has commissioned an additional Hiace assembly line at the Associated Vehicle Assemblers Mombasa. The Hiace CKD assembly line demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to growing the automotive sector and increasing assembled models from 4 to 10.
According to Toyota Kenya Managing Director Arvinder Reel, local operations at the AVA assembly plant in Mombasa use local content, therefore, providing a boost to the local value chain with forward and backward linkages. The key items include paints, lubricants, coolants, radiator hoses, batteries, exhaust pipes, air cleaners, springs, bolts, windscreens and tyres.
“Over time, the local assembly will provide opportunities for the localization of components used in the assembly of vehicles. This will further develop the local content supply chain through the manufacturing of local parts. In addition, it will offer technology transfer and skills upgrade for local technical staff in line with Toyota best practices,” said Mr. Reel.
The addition of the Hiace assembly line at AVA enhances Toyota Kenya’s commitment to supporting the growth of the manufacturing sector, one of the key pillars under the National Government’s Big Four Agenda. The auto industry firm already assembles 200 Hino trucks, 1,200 Hilux pick-ups, and 700 Land Cruiser pick-ups. These vehicles currently used by the National Police Service and the Tour operators annually.
Apart from assembling locally, Toyota Kenya has a network of over 31 authorized dealers and service centers across the country. This will ensure consumer vehicles get genuine spare parts and professional aftersales service for their vehicles. To ensure consumers can drive brand new vehicles with ease, Toyota has partnered with financial institutions to offer up to 95% for the Hiace.
With the National Automotive Policy in place, the cost of new vehicles will significantly decline. This will give many Kenyans an opportunity to own new vehicles, while increasing more jobs through the increased local component manufacturing to support the assembly plants.