High hopes for Chinese rides - JAC passenger vehicles enter Jamaican market

Sheldon Wiliams, Gleaner Writer

New JianghuAi Automobile Company (JAC) passenger vehicles, made in China, have been introduced to Jamaica through authorised dealer Doyle Motor Company. Laurence Doyle, CEO, is confident that the brand can compete in the local new-car dealership marketplace. Opened recently, it is the first dealership in the Caribbean to offer JAC passenger cars.

There are four 2014 models in stock, all left-hand drive. A small hatchback, the J2, costs $1.39m. The J3 sedan is priced at $1.69m and the J6 minivan's sticker price is $2.69m. The S5 luxury SUV goes for $2.9m.

Doyle said he is not discouraged by the hurdle of brand perception in the Jamaican automotive marketplace and believes JAC will allow many Jamaicans to be able to afford a new car for the first time.

"I believe that there are many Jamaican buyers looking for more than simply a name when it comes to purchasing their new vehicle. They are also interested in quality, reliability and service. After all, it is up to a buyer to decide where and how they want to spend their hard-earned money. Is it simply a logo, brand name or an expensive advertising campaign they want to pay for? Or are they interested in a quality vehicle, reliable transportation and five-star service at a lower price?" he asked.

Differences among vehicles

He noted that differences among motor vehicles are minor. "Global trade ensures that all designs across brand names have striking resemblances to one another. With the exception of a headlight or taillight positioned here or there, the vehicles look and perform the same as many other cars in the current market. It is up to the buyer to decide where and how they want to spend their hard-earned money," Doyle said.

A number of factors contributed to his decision to open a JAC dealership. "JAC brand is in over 120 countries worldwide, with a full range of passenger cars, trucks and buses. We selected Jamaica as the first in the Caribbean to host the passenger cars for many reasons, including English speaking and close proximity to the USA," he said. Doyle added: "Because of the tax structure, we feel the low price, high quality and intelligent design of JAC Motors' passenger cars will have appeal in the Jamaican market."

Jamaica's proximity to the United States is
even more important as the 2015 USA launch of JAC approaches. Further,
the implementation of the Goat Island project makes Jamaica a natural
distribution point for JAC Motors. Added to that is China Harbour's
already strong local presence.

He said JAC vehicles
share features with other brands, allowing for easy accessibility to
parts, among other advantages. "Since JAC is a leading OEM engine, body
part and chassis manufacturer, the feel, performance and design will
seem familiar, because they are," Doyle said. At the same time, he said,
"We already have all the parts coming. And we have an office in China,
so if we're missing a part, we can get it here in days. Plus, all JAC
service and parts are surprisingly
affordable."

Warranty

Not that many
parts needs are anticipated. "We offer a five-year, 100,000 km warranty.
Our goal is to keep your JAC vehicle in top condition, so that as your
future needs and style requirements change, you may purchase thelatest
model JAC, taking advantage of our customer loyalty buy-back programme.
This allows JAC customers to trade in their vehicle when purchasing a
new one. This will also allow us to have available quality previously
owned JAC vehicles for new JAC customers," Doyle
said.

Financing is provided by the banks, but Doyle
Motors is "offering bridge financing and other options in order to get
the customer into a vehicle they are happy with at a payment which is
comfortable". Purchase perks being offered by Doyle include the first
two regular maintenance visits being free.

He said
comments have been favourable. "Feedback has been quite positive. The
mechanics remark about the similarities and everyone is excited by the
looks and value of the cars," Doyle said.

Test drives
will be available as soon as Doyle receives the required licence
plates.