Sunil B. Chhetri

LOAN TERMS HIT AUTO MARKET BUT SALES TEAMS ARE POSITIVE

Nepal Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) is the largest auto show in Nepal. In the 13th edition of this flagship event, B360 spoke with some NADA participants who lead the marketing and sales of their respective automobile brands about the impact of limitation on auto lending and their coping strategy.

Sunil B. Chhetri General Manager, Go Automobiles

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Has the restriction on auto loan affected sales?

We are at present offering lower down payment option from a separate investment company to those customers who are seeking it.

What are the factors you consider while selecting a product for the Nepali market?

Customer preference is the first thing while ordering products for Nepal. Secondly, we have chosen products that are easily available for the Nepali Market i.e. Ford vehicle manufactured in India and Thailand. We choose products of global quality manufactured in India. For example, we are importing Endeavour from India instead of Thailand where it is known as Everest. The price would obviously go up if we import it from Thailand. The functionality and drivability of the product, practicality of the features offered also definitely play a role. In this respect, we have also initiated educational promotions so that our customers can use our vehicles to the fullest.

What do you credit the success of your sales to?

Our sales process is guided not by the products but by the customers, their needs, expectations and aspirations. The Ford line up that we offer is known to offer value for money. Our sales process includes consultations that assist our customers to choose a product that will fulfill their needs most accurately. We have one of the best after-sales plans for our customers. Our products are known to be leaders in Cost of Ownerships which means they are the easiest to maintain in regard to the number and cost of scheduled servicing and cost of spare parts.

What is the latest model you have released in the Nepali market and the signature element in it?

The sports edition of Figo and Aspire and the platinum edition of EcoSport have been introduced in the market this year. They are sportier versions of the models and come with bigger wheels, different coloured roof and other additional features.