GAC PH now under Astara, to launch 2 models in Jan. 2023

Astara is the new local arm of Guangzhou Automotive Company (GAC) in the country.

The company, who is only about to enter its second year of operation in the country, has officially acquired the Chinese automaker’s vehicle distributorship from Legado Motors Inc. (LMI).

 Following this development, Astara now has two automotive brands under its belt in the country — the first one being Peugeot.

To mark the occasion, Astara Philippines Managing Director Raoul Picello and Chief Financial Officer Adolfo Careaga graced the contract signing today, together with the GAC Motor’s seven dealer partners in the country as they reaffirm their commitment to provide top-notch vehicles and services to all its customers.

According to Astara, LMI — which is under the helm of Wilbert Lim — forms part of the Chinese automotive marque’s local dealer-partners.

“We are truly honored to continue GAC Motor’s journey as their new partner in the Philippines. With Astara’s global strength and track record in car distribution and mobility services, we are confident that we can take GAC Motor to greater heights as we have done in Latin America,” Picello said.

For his part, GAC Motor General Manager Zeng Hebin noted that the country is an important market for the company, saying that it has “great potential.” “At present, a lot of Chinese brands have achieved annual sales of more than 10,000 vehicles. It is believed that with the full cooperation of GAC and Astara, GAC Motor's market share in the Philippines will increase rapidly, becoming the travel choice of more and more Filipino consumers and bringing the high-quality and high-tech driving experience to more Filipino families,” the executive shared.

Relatedly, the new distributor said that it will open new showrooms and service facilities.

“Soon, we will announce six new dealer locations opening in key cities as part of our plan to grow the dealer network and reach more customers. Expanding our dealer footprint is a key element to making GAC Motor a top contender amongst mainstream auto brands,” added Picello.

Further, Astara Philippines announced that it will introduce two models by January 10: the GAC Empow sedan and all-new GS8 seven-seater sport utility vehicle. 

Headquartered in Guangdong, GAC Motor is one of the top five largest automobile manufacturers in China and offers vehicles ranging from sedans, vans and SUV. For eight consecutive years, GAC Motor is distinguished as the champion for stable and reliable quality in the China Initial Quality Study conducted by J.D. Power, an independent professional and authoritative institution for consumer insight and market research. The company has also forged joint ventures with Japanese, European and American automotive brands to manufacture, sell and export vehicles in China and foreign markets.

Photos from Astara Philippines

Also read:

Stellantis-GAC merger to file for bankruptcy

Will Astara bring in more brands under Stellantis to the PH?

Astara, Salesforce to bolster digitalization thrust