KVM resumes production of Volkswagen cars in Thika

BY HELLEN LUNALO-KNA

Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) has restarted the assembling of Volkswagen models as part of a renewed effort to strengthen its partnership with Germany.

The local assembler based in Thika is now producing the Volkswagen Touareg, Tiguan, and T-Cross models through a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) arrangement, where vehicle parts are imported and then assembled locally.

The initiative is a significant win for Kenya and is expected to boost local production, create new jobs, and facilitate the transfer of modern automotive technology to the Kenyan market.

German Deputy Ambassador Alexander Fierley said the restart of production at KVM highlighted the rekindled cooperation between Kenya and Germany in the auto industry.

During a visit to KVM, he noted that the partnership aims to strengthen capacity building, integrate modern production technologies and encourage eco-friendly transportation.

“The automotive industry is crucial for economic development, and Germany’s partnership with Kenya aims to create stronger industry ties, promote innovation and technology transfer in order to support the country's economic goals,” stated Fierley.

Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM), which is majority-owned by CFAO Mobility Kenya, has a diverse portfolio of assembled vehicles for the Kenyan market.

These include Mercedes-Benz trucks and buses, as well as models from Sinotruk, Tata, Hyundai, and BasiGo's electric buses.

The addition of Volkswagen models to this lineup will further expand its multi-brand collection and reinforce Kenya's position as the regions’ leading hub for vehicle assembly.