Mr Gichuru, who was previously Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ managing director of APAC General Distributors based in Shanghai as part of his nine-year career with FCA, takes up his new role in Kenya.
Before working with FCA in China, Mr Gichuru was the head of aftersales dealer operations with Hyundai and served as area sales manager and then regional manager for Hyundai in Western Australia.
Mobius is a manufacturer of vehicles made specifically for the African market, designed to be rugged and versatile and priced about the same as a used car.
On his LinkedIn account, Mr Gichuru said he had “jumped at the opportunity to take back to Africa all the skills and knowledge gained in the automotive industry to do my part in developing our countries”.
“I am excited to announce that I am involved in one of the most rewarding projects ever attempted in Africa. Locally manufactured vehicles that are rugged, robust, versatile, and sold at exceptional prices. Made in Africa for Africa.
“Not only changing the face of mobility in Africa but also creating direct and indirect employment opportunities throughout the extended supply chain.
“Thank you to all my previous colleagues, fellow executives, the hundreds of dealers I have had the privilege of working with, distributor partners and all the staff who have worked for me during the years. Without you, I would not be where I am today.”
He said that the Mobius II vehicle “was conceived by reimagining the vehicle, around the needs of the African consumer – common road terrain, typical vehicle loading and average income levels were important factors in the development of the vehicle”.
“The result, an SUV with the durability required to handle rural roads, sold at the price of a used sedan.”
By Neil Dowling
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