It was nearly a year ago when we told you about the Mahindra & Mahindra's plan to launch two models of their efficient mid-size diesel pickup in the US. Originally the trucks were supposed to land in February 2010, which was then changed to May, then to August, and well you get the idea...

 

First the good news: as of August 20, 2010 Mahindra's trucks received EPA certification to be sold in the US. Just take a look at this little workhorse, 7 ft bed, 2.5L diesel engine, 2,700 lb payload capacity, 5,000 lb towing capacity and 30+ MPG.

 

 

And now the not so good news: About a week after receiving EPA certification Mahindra announced it was no longer in a relationship with it's US distributor Global Vehicles. The question is why would M&M drop Global Vehicles when they are so close to launch?

 

It isn't exactly clear why GV was dropped (likely monetary reasons), but the two are currently battling it out in court. There was a 3 year sun down clause on GV's exclusive distribution rights if Mahindra couldn't get the trucks EPA certified. Mahindra used this clause to terminate the relationship shortly after receiving EPA certification, however the US district court in Atlanta will be hearing this case in a few weeks.

 

If Mahindra can get their trucks here it's likely they'll prove the market for mid-size diesel trucks. And if they do watch out, competitors will jump in models never seen before in North America...

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