When it comes to pickups and utility vehicles, JMC isn’t exactly the first brand that comes to mind. The Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer has been in the country for a few years now, but the company is heading to a new direction locally this time around.
That’s because JMC now has a new distributor in the Philippines. It’s the Astara Group that’s now taking over JMC’s operations in the country “with immediate effect.”
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
Advisory: Lagusnilad underpass in Manila City has reopened
The new Suzuki Smash Fi can do 68km/L; prices start at P66.4k
With the addition of JMC in its portfolio, Astara now holds three brands in the country, the other two being Peugeot and GAC. Given the track record (so far) of those two companies, the Spanish mobility company is determined to make JMC more mainstream.
On top of that, Astara will also handle parts and service for JMC vehicles in the Philippines. It is also likely that the Chinese brand will undergo an aggressive expansion locally. Per the company’s statement: “The company’s primary focus will be to build a solid dealer network, achieve leadership in the pickup segment, and implement effective strategies to promote and strengthen the brand’s image and products.”
“At Astara, we are honored to include JMC in our distribution activities in the Philippines,” said CEO Jorge Navea. “This leading brand stands as a great asset to our portfolio in the Philippines, aligning perfectly with astara’s vision for the future of mobility. Our successful representation of the brand in other countries demonstrates our ability to serve its loyal customers, dealer network, and business partners.”
For now, there is no mention as to what JMC models will be offered here. Looking at the marque’s current lineup, the Grand Avenue (also known as the Dadao Mohe in its home market) seems to be a likely candidate. The updated Vigus could also potentially be sold here as well. It is yet to be confirmed if the medium and heavy-duty truck line will be offered here.
We’ll find out more once Astara formally holds the relaunch of JMC as the company shares more details.
