Volvo distributor eyes better year in 2002

Scandinavian Motors Corporation (SMC), authorized importer and Viking Cars, Incorporated (VCI), authorized dealer of Volvo cars recently celebrated its 7th year of operations in the Philippines.

SMC and VCI are 100-percent Filipino-owned companies. Volvo in the Philippines started in 1994 and has gained a total sales of 1,700 Volvo passenger cars in the country, of which the product offering concentrated on the large luxury car segment which are priced at P2.2 million and up.

In its first year, Volvo garnered a 66-percent market share in the luxury car segment in the country. In 1995, it consolidated its gains in its sophomore year by posting a respectable 15-percent growth. To cap its market success, Scandinavian Motors received the Volvo Diamond Award as best importer from among 23 competing countries of Volvo Car International. The prestigious award is given in recognition for an outstanding performance in the areas of vehicle sales, parts and service operations, competitive positions and customer satisfaction.

SMC and VCI hold the distinction of being the first ever to be given such honor in their first full year of operations.

Since the start of their operations, SMC and VCI had launched a total of 14 Volvo models, namely the classic 850 series of sedans and stationwagons; the 850R Turbo and the top-of-the-line 960 sedan models in 1994 and 1995. The year 1997 saw the introduction of Volvo’s new, sexier look with the launch of the S70, V70, S40 and V40 models.

In 1999, SMC and VCI launched the S70 light pressure turbo in the country. The following year, they unveiled the new S80, S40 and V70. For this year 2001, SMC just launched Volvo’s newest sports sedan – the S60 and the new Volvo S40. It is also scheduled to launch the Volvo Cross Country in the first quarter of next year.

SMC and VCI have vowed to continue their front-running market performance with a wider product lineup and larger distribution network. It also seeks to establish the Volvo brand as an active and leading exponent of motoring safety and environmental care.

With their thrust in developing its people and its enduring commitment to customer satisfaction, SMC and VCI hope to achieve their goals of establishing Volvo as the most desired premium car brand in the Philippines.

The Volvo showroom and after-sales-service center are located at 2272 Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City. For details please call tel. no. 893-6621 to 22.