FAST auto show organisers see slight rise in new, used car sales

The event kicked off yesterday at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center (Bitec) and will run until July 1.
A total of 15 automobile companies are present with current models while 16 used car dealers are offering a range of previously-owned vehicles that come with special warranties and sales promotions.
Show organiser Pattanadesh Asasappakij said this is the 7th year of the event.
"Last year there were 252,216 visitors to the show with a total of 3,497 vehicles sold (2,256 new and 1,241 used) worth approximately Bt2.85 billion," he said, adding that the organisers expect a 3-per cent growth in sales this year.
"We expect 270,000 people attending the show this year with no less than 3,600 vehicles being sold, comprising of 2,300 new and 1,300 used vehicles," Pattanadesh said.
He said used cars offered at the show must pass several important requirements. The vehicles must not be involved with a serious accident and has not undergone modifications.
Pornthep Thirasuntrakul, Senior Marketing Director for Auto Financing, Bank of Ayudhya, which is the main sponsor of the show, said, "The automobile market is growing continuously this year due to favorable economic factors, introduction of new models and the large number of used cars flowing into the market. The auto financing market is also enjoying growth, projected at 7 per cent in 2018. Krungsri Auto believes that the FAST Auto Show Thailand 2018 will be another boost for the automobile and auto financing market."
Chalatchai Paphatphong, vice chairman of the Organising Committee for New Cars, said, "For new vehicles, we have a total of 15 companies including MG, Hyundai, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Suzuki, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Subaru and AAS Group, which features Porsche, Bentley, Ducati and Harley-Davidson. This reflects the confidence auto companies have in the automobile market, which is enjoying continuous growth. Meanwhile, auto companies have prepared many sales campaigns that will surely help with the purchase decision of consumers visiting the show."
Asadavuth Asasappakij, vice chairman of the Organising Committee for Used Cars, said, "For used cars, apart from the 100-per cent buy-back guarantee, many dealers are exhibiting more luxury cars apart from the popular models in the market. This is because of last year’s robust sales of luxury vehicles. There were not enough cars for sale at the show. This year, there is also a large number of promotions and warranty to give customers added confidence, and I am sure sales of used vehicles will increase."
Used car dealers present at the show include Visarn Autocar, DDS Car Center, Yo Rachada, 54 Niwat Car, The One Srinakarin, CarDeeSureOk, Amorn Warranty by Benz Amorn Rachada, , Khun X Home Cars by Auto Master, 999 Suwit Home Cars Took Lae Dee, Best Service, Keng Rama 9 and J. Motor Trade, Muangchon Used Car, RoT Sethi, NBP&Unique Auto Car, and A.T. Car Sale.