CEBU, Philippines - Another Chinese car brand has entered the Cebu automotive market aiming to educate the public on its distinction among other brands.
DES Strong Motors recently opened a display center for Great Wall Cars along M.C. Briones Street, Highway, Ibabao, Mandaue City.
GW Cars General Manager Jed Edward Chan described the location of the showroom as ideal for the company due to its accessibility and visibility.
He noted that Cebuanos may not yet be familiar with the brand, but he said that GW Cars is eager to put more effort in promoting awareness through conducting thematic events and mall displays.
He said that the company is bullish with the market since it banks on the practicality of Cebuanos when it comes to owning vehicles.
"They (Cebuanos) are more on the practical side and most of them are utility vehicle owners unlike sa Manila who buy cars for fun and luxury," he said.
Chan said that their product line includes pick-ups and sports utility vehicles can serve two purposes - business and personal.
He also said that GW Cars aim to be an alternate car company as they make their own market in the car industry.
"We receive good feedbacks. Once they experience Great Wall, nagugustuhan nila. Sunod-sunod na silang bumibili. Doon kami nagkakaroon ng maraming repeat buyers.
"We don't want to just give the cars we also want to give them the lifestyle. Once you own the car, you are proud of it," he said.
He added that there is an increasing demand for their units especially with companies showing interest with their brand.
Chan said that their showroom does not only display GW units, but also offers auto parts and services and eventually it will also provide add-ons and accessories.
He also said that once the targeted 15-20 cars will be sold after its opening, the shop will become a 24/7 service area.
He said that the company plans to expand in other parts of the country eyeing dealerships in Pampanga and Bacolod.
Meanwhile, DES Strong Motors Production Supervisor Sylvester Joseph Lumapas said that they are hopeful they can penetrate the Cebu auto market, which is dominated by Japanese, American and Korean brands.
He also admitted that there is a negative perception on Chinese products and limited education about the brand.
He, however, added that the determination to make a difference in the market drives the company to educate the public further.
With its units passing the standards of Euro certification testing for compliance accreditation and Australasian New Car Assessment Program, he described GW as a brand recommended for use since it offers value for money, fuel efficiency and safety.
"Mahiligon sa sakyanan ang mga Cebuanos. I am very much positive since dako ang potential sa market. With our European technology and design, ma-appreciate gyud sa mga taga-Cebu," he told The FREEMAN.
Manufactured in China, the 2012 Philippine Great Wall models are compact utility vehicle Haval M2, SUV Haval H5, Voleex C30 sedan, Voleex C10 hatchback, and Wingle 5 pick-up.
At present, GW Cars has dealerships in North EDSA, Alabang, and Bohol.
DES Strong Motors is the sole distributor in the provinces of Cebu and Bohol.
GW Cars - Mandaue is the first GW shop in Cebu and the second in the Visayas region.