CAR dealerships are gearing up for reopening as they devise ways to push sales and deliver after-sales services, some in the most unconventional way.
Rommel Gutierrez, president of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc., said a number of dealers in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) have reopened stores on May 1 but most are opening their doors today.
Members of the Association of Vehicle Importers and Distributors (AVID) in GCQ areas are set to implement general safety and health guidelines at its facilities as they resume operations.
“While we understand that people will not easily jump back into their usual routines, we want to assure the public that during the lock down, AVID members have been busy developing COVID-ready processes, structures, and organizations. We envision these protocols as guide posts for our industry to hurdle current and future challenges in a timely and well-coordinated manner,” said Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo, AVID president.
The protocols, to be observed across employees, customers and suppliers, cover the mandated physical distancing, wearing of face masks and other protective gear, temperature screening, proper hand washing and sanitizing, respiratory etiquette, and other regulations and best practices.
According to Agudo, AVID members are upgrading and mobilizing their online resources to continue providing customers quick, efficient, and “no-contact” service in the comfort and safety of their homes.
Some AVID members have already pledged support for Project ARK (Antibody Rapid Test Kits) to guide them in developing a safe work environment for their employees.
AVID is composed 21 member companies representing 26 global brands. These brands include Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BYD, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ferrari, Ford, GAC Motor, Geely, Hyundai, JAC passenger cars, JAC commercial vehicles, Jeep, Lamborghini, Lotus, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Piaggio, Porsche, Rolls Royce, Subaru, Suzuki, and Volvo.
Going digital
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is launching tofay MyToyota PH, a digital tool that makes owning and maintaining a Toyota easier and more convenient for all customers.
TMP in a statement said Toyota owners can now book their service appointments safely anytime, anywhere.
Toyota owners will also have access to the tool’s key features straight from their mobile phones. Inquiries are made easier as customers can directly send messages to their dealers about their booked appointment. The tool also has reminders which is sent 24 hours and an hour prior to their appointment. Job items and service cost estimates are also easily available in the tool.
But dealers in areas under enhanced community quarantine like Metro Manila, Central Luzon and Calabarzon will remain closed.
Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez in a letter to the Philippine Automotive Dealers Association said the automotive sector is not part of the sectors allowed to operate under ECQ due to the urgent need to limit the movement of people to stop the spread of COVID-19.
