McCarthy, the automotive division of the Bidvest Group, will introduce a range of fully imported Chinese vehicles on to the South African market before the end of the first quarter of 2007.
These vehicles will be imported from reputable manufacturers who are using well-proven technology, and will be backed up by a network of dedicated, McCarthy-owned dealerships in the major centres, the company said on Wednesday.
According to Brand Pretorius, chairperson of McCarthy Motor Holdings, the company’s Chinese venture provides it with a meaningful opportunity for growth.
“It will expand our Vehicle Import and Distribution division substantially, increase the size of our dealer network and deliver meaningful benefits to our Financial Services division.”
The Chinese motor industry is coming of age following 10 years of dramatic growth. “In 2005, new vehicle sales in China exceeded five million units, which earned it the distinction of being the second-largest new-vehicle market in the world,” said Pretorius. “China’s next objective is to penetrate the international market, and South Africa has been identified as an important export opportunity.”
The planned vehicles will boast attractive, modern designs, a high level of specification and excellent reliability. “This new range will compete for leadership in the value segments of the market, boasting very competitive selling prices and low costs of ownership,” said Jolyon Nash, executive director at McCarthy Motor Holdings.
Nash said McCarthy has consistently campaigned for more affordable vehicles and, in its opinion, the company’s range of Chinese vehicles will offer South African customers outstanding value.
“The light and medium commercial vehicles, in particular, will be welcomed by all users of utility vehicles. These low-cost vehicles will undoubtedly play an important role in our economy as we gear up for World Cup Soccer in 2010.”
Most importantly, South African motorists will undoubtedly welcome these new contenders in the value segments of the market, as the introduction of Chinese vehicles will add more choice and intensify competition even more.
“The value segment of the market has grown significantly over the past three years, and we are therefore confident of the success of this exciting venture,” concluded Nash. — I-Net Bridge