Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer
2007 Audi Q7. - CONTRIBUTED
THE GENERAl manager of Audi Latin America and the Caribbean, Juergen Deforth, says the regional market for premium vehicles is strong and his company plans to move aggressively in the market.
Audi Latin America saw an approximate 53 per cent increase in sales with 1800 units sold, up from 1141 in the previous year, he said.
Mr. Deforth was visiting Jamaica for the first time last month, where he spent much of his time at Prestige Motors the local importer for Audi.
PREMIUM MARKET
"We are very optimistic about the future, and are working to continue the upward trend", says Mr. Deforth.
Ultimately, the target is to achieve one-third market share in the premium segment, where they face competition for other makes such as BMW and Mercedes.
This year, Audi will release its first SUV, the Q7. The Q7, as described by Mr. Deforth, boasts sophisticated technical engineering and a superior design.
It is also equipped with the signature Audi Quattro technology, the 4-wheel-drive system that is inextricably linked with the make.
OPTIMISM ABOUT SALES
The model is set to hit Jamaican roads in August, and Mr. Deforth and the represen-tatives from Prestige Motors, are very optimistic about its sales peotential.
"We are convinced that we will find a lot of new customers in Jamaica", says Mr. Deforth. Jamaicans will also have the opportunity to enjoy the new and improved Audi A4, which has been stocked with a new 2-litre engine.
Deborah Stewart, brand sales and marketing manager of Prestige Motors Limited, said: "We will spend more on the A4, which has always done well in this market."
FACELIFT
The A3, which has also received a facelift, will be a focus for Prestige Motors. Audi plans to premiere a number of new models in the future, including the new Audi TT, a convertible sports car.
