Sharad Dhungel

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.

Sharad Dhungel Sales Manager, Honda Car Division

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Has the restriction on auto loan affected sales?

Nepal Rastra Bank has imposed limitation on auto lending to 65 % of valuation of the vehicle. The auto industry is pressurizing the government to amend this hurdle further. Actually, it is affecting the revenue system. To cope with it, we have opened our own investment company to lend for our products.

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

Market demand, utility of vehicle, safety features and price.

What do you credit the success of your sales to?

Auto industry operates on ‘service with smile’ theory. Even if you have good product but if you don’t present yourself with acceptable behaviour with customers, they will not purchase your product.

What is the signature element of your brand or your product?

Durability, quality and reliability.

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

Honda BRV is our latest model. We are planning to launch a new model, WRV, very soon.