DAVAO remains to be a major market showing robust sales performance, a Ford Philippines official said.
Maribel Chua, Ford Philippines–Davao general manager, in a press conference Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at the SMX Convention Center, said that the automotive industry in Davao is thriving following the booming economy of the city.
She said the strong business performance in Davao is driven by the solid and steady demand for Ford’s big three — Ranger pickup truck, Everest SUV and EcoSport crossover.
“On an average, we sell some 100 units monthly here in Davao branch,” she said.
Chua added that for holiday season, they’re able to sell 20 to 30 units more.
However, Chua noted that sales last year is higher than this year.
“It is because we launched new models last year and normally the market will embrace anything new, thus, the bulk of sales. But we are still performing well and hitting most of our monthly targets,” she said.
EJ Francisco, Ford Philippines assistant vice president for communications, said that now is the best time to purchase a car as the proposed tax reform is yet to be implemented.
Ford, same with other car brands, expect an initial drop of auto sales in the few months of the implementation as consumers observe the impact of the excise tax.
“But, whatever the impact will be, the industry will recover immediately because cars are already a necessity, especially for those who can afford,” Francisco said.
Meanwhile, the automotive firm, brings for the first time this year its flagship, nationwide test drive roadshow and globally-recognized safe driving programs to Davao in a bid to reach more customers and intensify awareness on safe and responsible driving.
Dubbed as the “Ford Island Conquest,” the ultimate test drive allows customers to test drive the Everest mid-size SUV, EcoSport compact SUV, and the segment-defining Ranger pickup.
It features a test drive arena with an outdoor course and a water-wading drive-thru to highlight key features and capabilities of the Everest and Ranger.
Also, a mock-up Ford showroom will be set up for customers to learn more about Ford’s sales and after-sales services and special ownership packages.
Freebies await those who will register and participate in the activities, while customers purchasing Ford vehicles can avail of cash discounts and financing deals at the three-day event.
“We look forward to seeing our customers in Davao experience our vehicles and avail of exclusive offers and privileges, which includes a chance to get a P100,000 cash discount for those purchasing their vehicles at the event,” said Mark Cruz, Ford Philippines’s brand manager.
The Ford Island Conquest will be at the SM Lanang Premier Parking Lot on October 6-8, 2017.
Moreover, Ford is also bringing its globally-recognized Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program to Davao, a first in the ten-year history of DSFL in the country.
DSFL is a United Nations-recognized training initiative that educates drivers about smart and safe driving skills to help minimize road accidents and promote fuel-efficient driving.
“All these efforts are to reinforce our commitment to safety and efficiency,” Francisco said.