Wednesday, December 16, 2009

J.D. Power Asia Pacific Reports: Satisfaction with Engine/Transmission Performance and Audio/Entertainment/Navigation Systems

Honda and Toyota Models Earn Two APEAL Segment Awards Each; Isuzu Receives One Award


Engine and transmission performance for passenger cars and audio/entertainment/navigation system performance for pickup trucks are becoming more important to new-vehicle owners in Thailand, while the importance of fuel economy has declined across the industry, according to the J.D. Power Asia Pacific 2009 Thailand Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) StudySM released today.

Now in its seventh year, the APEAL Study is an owner-reported measure of what gratifies owners in Thailand about their new vehicle’s performance and design during the first two to six months of ownership. The study examines nearly 100 attributes covering 10 vehicle categories: exterior; interior; storage and space; audio/entertainment/navigation; seats; HVAC; driving dynamics; engine/transmission; visibility and driving safety; and fuel economy. APEAL study performance is reported as an index score based on a 1,000-point scale, with a higher score indicating higher satisfaction.

The overall APEAL score in 2009 averages 871, down by five points from 2008. Satisfaction in 2009 has decreased from 2008 in seven categories, with only three categories—fuel economy, seats, and HVAC—improving in 2009.

“It is worth noting that satisfaction has decreased in seven categories in Thailand in 2009 and increased in only three,” said Loic Pean, country manager at J.D. Power Asia Pacific, Bangkok. “In an increasingly competitive market where vehicle quality is showing great improvement, it is critical for automakers to distinguish themselves from their competitors by creating product differentiation through performance and design.”
Model Results by Segment

The Honda Jazz ranks highest in the entry midsize car segment for a second consecutive year with an overall APEAL score of 869. The Nissan Tiida (856) and Toyota Yaris (851) follow in the segment rankings.

In the midsize car segment, the Honda Civic (880) ranks highest. Following the Honda Civic in the segment rankings are the Mazda3 (878) and Toyota Corolla Altis (875).

Among sport utility vehicles, the Isuzu MU-7 (897) ranks highest, and is followed by the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport (884).

In the pickup extended cab segment, the Toyota Hilux Vigo Prerunner Smart Cab (891) ranks highest, followed by the Isuzu D-Max Spacecab/Rodeo (882).

In the pickup double cab segment, the Toyota Hilux Vigo Prerunner (897) ranks highest and is followed in the rankings by the Toyota Hilux Vigo (884).
Additional Industry Findings

The study finds that owners of pickup trucks and utility vehicles in Thailand are more satisfied, on average, than owners of passenger cars.

However, while overall satisfaction among passenger car owners is not as high as that of pickup and utility vehicle owners, overall passenger-car owner satisfaction has increased by three points in 2009 compared with 2008, to an average of 862. Meanwhile, overall satisfaction among pickup owners and utility vehicle owners has declined from 2008 by six points and three points, respectively.

“In 2009, we have observed an increase in consumer interest in passenger-car models, mostly due to significant improvements in fuel economy in these models,” said Pean. “However, satisfaction levels for pickup truck models are still higher than those of passenger car models, on average, indicating that pickups are still very popular among owners in Thailand.”

The study also finds that, among owners with particularly high levels of satisfaction (averaging 900 or higher), 81 percent say they “definitely would” recommend their vehicle model. In contrast, among owners with lower levels of satisfaction, fewer than 59 percent say they “definitely would” recommend their model.

“In order to retain repeat buyers and foster word of mouth advocacy for their brand, manufacturers need to focus on producing vehicles with features and styling that go beyond satisfying owners to truly gratifying them,” said Pean. “This is likely a key reason why the importance of audio and navigation system performance has increased among new-vehicle owners in Thailand.”

The 2009 Thailand APEAL Study is based on evaluations from 3,518 owners who purchased their new vehicle between October 2008 and July 2009. The study includes 58 different passenger car, pickup truck and utility vehicle models covering 11 makes. The study was fielded between April and September 2009.

Campaign "Pleasurable Journey, Lexus’ Pride"

Lexus Bangkok welcome the greeting season for superior and safety travel during the coming New Year festival with the launch of “Pleasurable Journey, Lexus’ Pride” campaign set to give privileges to Lexus customers. Under the campaign, the customers will enjoy free 24-item check-up for their Lexus vehicles, together with special discounts for brake pads and choke up of up to 20% plus another 10% discount for synthetic lubricant and lubricant filter. All models of Lexus vehicles will be able to receive the free check-up service from today until January 31 next year at Lexus Bangkok Service Center.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Meet MAZDA Sports Cars at the Motor Expo 26th leading by the New Mazda CX-9; a Luxury Zoom-Zoom 7-Seater Crossover

Lightweight Technology adds spice to the new Mazda2

Mazda Sales Thailand revealed that Mazda Zoom-Zoom concept will be enhanced at the 2009 Motor Expo event. All models will be displayed in "A Soul of Sports Car" family from small sports car new Mazda2, distinguished design Mazda3, sports pick-up truck BT-50, world Guinness record sports roadster MX-5 to the luxury crossover new Mazda CX-9.


At Impact Challenger, Muangthong Thani, Mazda customers will experience a brand new technique of vehicle presentation. Mazda's "Lightweight Technology is displayed at this show after it has been globally recognized by the success of fun-to-drive sports roadster MX-5. Customers will also enjoy special offers vary from low interest rate 1.99% for Mazda3 and minimal monthly installment at 6,666 baht for popular BT-50 Hi-Racer.

John Ray, Managing Director of Mazda Sales Thailand said that "In the current highly competitive market, the launch of the New Mazda2 is a strategic move that helps strengthen Mazda brand and make Mazda emerge as a HIT brand in Thailand. Our recent launch of the New Mazda2 is a remarkable success and will prove to be a key milestone in the 58 year history of the Mazda’s business in Thailand. The quality attributes of the Mazda2 are demonstrated with this car winning 51 awards worldwide including the prestigious 2008 World Car of the Year award. Only two weeks after its introduction, the New Mazda2 has been overwhelmingly received by Thai consumers and has achieved customer orders over 2,800 units".

Today at the 2009 Motor Expo, you will also experience the launch of the new Mazda CX-9, the luxury 7-seater crossover. The New Mazda CX-9 combines the exhilaration of Mazda's sports heritage with premium craftsmanship and luxury appointment a best in class crossover SUV.

The new Mazda CX-9 offers all senses of sports luxury SUV that comes with a piece of mind package of 3 years/100,000 kilometers Scheduled Maintenance package and 24hr. Roadside Assistance service at the retail price of 3,690,000 Baht.

John adds that "There are more to excite at Mazda. The award winning, all-time favorite Mazda3 continues to gain popularity with a market share growth YOY of almost 37%. We also have the world’s best selling sport roadster, the Mazda MX-5 and our powerful sport pickup, BT-50 with intelligent DE-S suspension for superior handling. We are also offering an exciting range of special promotional campaigns for new Mazda customers that are available only at the Motor Expo. Most significantly, we will continue to make every effort to further enhance our sales and after-sales service strategies with customer satisfaction always our top priority."

Mazda Motor Expo deal: The New BT-50 sport pickup FSC VCD, V Hi-Racer and V Hi-Racer+ models, with intelligent DE-S suspension system, offers a low interest rate starting at only 0.99% or FSC V CD get the lowest monthly installment at 6,666 Baht and one-year full coverage insurance. The Mazda3, entry price 777,000 Baht, offers a low interest rate starting at 1.99%, a maintenance package for up to 3 years or 60,000 kilometers and one-year full coverage insurance. New Mazda MX-5 offers 5 years warranty, a maintenance package for up to 3 years or 100,000 kilometers and one-year full coverage insurance. The promotion runs until December 13, 2009.

Furthermore, customers who purchase New Mazda2 and New Mazda CX-9 will get one-year full coverage insurance. First 2,000 customers who reserve and purchase New Mazda2 within this year will get The Twilight SAGA: New Moon imported premium from USA worth 500 Baht, such as wristwatch, T-Shirt and dog tag. Special offering in Motor Expo event at Impact Challenger, the prospects who do test drive will get the limited Zoom-Zoom mug worth 199 Baht and the first 1,000 customers who do booking will get Zoom-Zoom bag worth 999 Baht when purchase by December 31, 2009.

The 26th Thailand International Motor Expo will open for public from December 2 – 13, 2009 at Impact Challenger 1 – 3.

There’s no better way to experience the dynamic and ultimate ‘Zoom-Zoom’ driving excitement than being behind the wheel yourself, so I would urge you to test drive a Mazda vehicle at the Motor Expo. Test drive is also available at Mazda 106 authorized showrooms nationwide.

Mazda has a 58 year-old relationship with Thailand and, through a strong dealer network, will continue playing a major role in the development of the Thai economy. The company aims to be a car company that brings back childhood emotions by providing vehicles that are daring, ingenious and fun through the Zoom-Zoom concept. The company is dedicated to improving and maintaining a high level of user- friendly after-sales services as customer delight is our first priority. Mazda will turn its brand success to benefit its customers by providing a wider dealer network. The company is operated with business ethics and social responsibilities.

PROTON EXORA Touch the spacious experience to carry 7 adult seats

Phranakorn Auto Sales Co., Ltd. Proton distributor in Thailand, imported the newest model ”Proton Exora” which is the outstanding MPV. Touch the spacious experience to carry 7 adult seats at 26th Thailand International Motor Expo 2009 in December this year.


Proton EXORA marks PROTON’s entry into the highly popular MPV segment. The EXORA is a culmination of several years of meticulous research and development by PROTON. EXORA embodies the efforts by PROTON to incorporate space, style, performance and safety elements into the design philosophy of the vehicle.

Just like the GEN 2 and Neo, the EXORA shares the same tried and tested 1.6 litre CamPro engine, except that the engine for the EXORA is now added with the CPS (Cam Profile Switching) technology. This engine utilizes two ingenious technologies, CPS (Cam Profile Switching) and VIM (Variable Intake Manifold technology), to give a relatively high power output and rapid response, whilst maintaining a fuel-efficient delivery. These two technologies give the EXORA the best of both worlds by combining the characteristics of two different engines in one compact package. As a result, the usual reduction in torque caused by high-lift camshafts is offset by the long intake runner, whilst the short runner works by helping the engine generate more power at higher speeds.

EXORA is designed to make those long trips with the family a breeze. They key to this is the Lotus-tuned ride and handling that gives the driver a sure-footed, yet comfortable drive on the highway and winding countryside roads. In terms of safety, driver and front-seat passenger will appreciate EXORA’s standard safety features which include twin front airbags - standard in both the Medium Line and High Line variants - and pre-tensioner seat-belts. Other standard safety features include the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to help the vehicle come to a quick and safe stop should the need arise. To top it all, the EXORA offers an extremely strong passenger cell and computer-aided designed crash structure which has helped this MPV achieve the equivalent of Euro-Ncap 4-star safety rating requirements. Other cutting-edge technologies present in the EXORA include a hybrid high-strength “front-end module” and hydro-formed steel components. All these technologies help the EXORA shed weight without compromising on its strength and safety.

On the inside, PROTON’s major technological improvement in the EXORA is demonstrated by the improved sound-proofing technology which allows driver and passengers to have conversations without having to raise their voices. The quietness offered by the MPV also means that occupants of the MPV can enjoy their favourite music or DVD movie (for passengers in Supreme variant) through its high-quality sound system. As an added comfort and driving pleasure for long journeys, the EXORA offers 10 bottle holders strategically located to keep drink bottles within easy reach of driver and passengers. For luggage, the EXORA offers ample space, with six different seat-folding configurations adding more storage flexibility when required. The single-lever seat folding mechanism allows the second row seat to be tumbled easily thus providing a wider opening for passengers to hop on to the third row seat. The rear doors which can open at a maximum angle of 80 degrees enhance the loading and offloading of passengers. The EXORA also offers individual air-conditioning vents on every row providing maximum comfort to passengers on hot days. To complete the luxurious feel, the EXORA Medium line comes with an uncluttered and clean grey interior with fabric seats, whereas the High line comes standard with leather and alcantra.

One of the outstanding features of the EXORA is an electronic device called the Body Control Module (BCM). This feature is usually found in more expensive European makes. The EXORA is the first Proton car to be equipped with BCM and it offers a whole new range of options and gadgets to enhance the vehicle’s practicality and safety. BCM offers over 20 different functions, from “follow me home lights”, to programmable door-locking configurations and wiper speeds, to automatic hazard light activation during emergency braking from above 96km/h and many more.

The EXORA comes in four colors, Genetic Silver, Tranquility Black, Solid White and Gaia Blue which can select in both Medium Line and High Line.

Chevrolet AVEO with New 1.6-Litre Engine to be Officially Introduced

“Camaro” - the ultimate muscle car from the movie “The Transformers” makes its public debut in Thailand.


Special Sales Offers “Condition to Your Choice” - Customized to suit every style, available for all Chevrolet models.

Chevrolet has officially launched an upgrade to its ‘Compact Car with Big Design’ which comes with increased engine capacity for increased drivability. Accompanying the new AVEO 1.6 is the Thailand debut of the Chevrolet Camaro. Other attractions include a wide range of promotional packages including offers like an affordable down-payments, low interest rates and free first-class insurance.

General Motors (Thailand) Co., Ltd., and Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Co., Ltd., aim to finish the year on a higher note with the introduction of the upgraded Chevrolet AVEO. The compact sedan is now powered by a 1.6-litre engine offering even better power and torque characteristics for increased drivability.

Besides enhanced performance, the 1.6-liter Chevrolet AVEO also boasts a comprehensive array of safety features including ABS with EBD; air bags; immobilizer; security alarm; fog lights (in selected models); a 2-Din sound system; CD/MP3 stereo and Bluetooth; remote electric mirrors; electric rear-seat flips and folds, and many more.
Here is the AVEO price list;
AVEO 1.6 LSX Bt. 644,000
AVEO 1.6 LT Bt. 674,000
AVEO 1.6 SS Bt. 689,000
AVEO 1.6 LUX Bt. 709,000

Mr. Antonio Zara, Chevrolet Thailand’s Vice President of Sales, Marketing and After-sales Service, said “I’m sure the new 1.6-liter Chevrolet AVEO, with its vigorous and enhanced characteristics, as well as its comprehensive range of features that stress on passenger comfort and optimum safety, will be well-received by the motoring public. Those who know the AVEO already know its exceptional cabin space compared with other compact cars in its range. The AVEO 1.6 has been developed specifically to meet the discerning needs of customers.

Apart from the launch of AVEO 1.6, Chevrolet also showcased its range of cars and trucks, including the ever-popular 1.4-liter AVEO, the Chevrolet Optra CNG – in estate and sedan guise; the Chevrolet Colorado and the class-leading Chevrolet Captiva multipurpose SUV.

However, the star attraction was the special showcase of the Chevrolet Camaro, also known as ‘Bumblebee’ to fans of the Transformers movie. Officially seen in Thailand for the first time, the iconic American muscle-car has managed to marry modern design elements with classic Camaro design cues.

Apart from the displays, customers and visitors to Chevrolet’s booth also had access to professional guidance and consultancy services in owning Chevrolet’s quality used cars at the ‘Chevy OK’ counter. The Chevy Finance Service was also available at the booth to ensure speedy and convenient financial services for customer who are interested in Chevrolet’s products – new or used.

Chevrolet also launched a special campaign known as the ‘Condition to Your Choice’, designed to cater to the varied needs and preferences of customers. Under the campaign, customers can choose the package that best fits their requirements. Packages offered under the campaign include 0% interest for payments of over 36 months with a 25% down payment, or 0.99% interest for 36 monthly installments with a 15% down payment. In both cases, customers will receive free one-year first-class car insurance coverage when purchasing a Chevrolet Colorado, Chevrolet Optra, Chevrolet Optra Estate or Chevrolet AVEO. As a bonus, Chevrolet Optra CNG buyers get up to 10,000 baht of free CNG for the first year.

Themed “Transformers”, Chevrolet’s booth also symbolised the setting-off on a journey with the customers. This marks Chevrolet’s core principal of business, which is to put the customer in the centre of everything it does. Meet Chevrolet’s diversified automotive innovations and enjoy special promotional offers at the Thailand Motor Expo from December 2 to 13, 2009 in Challenger Halls 1 to 3, Muang Thong Thani.

3 Compact Volvos Set to Win Trendsetters’ Heart at Motor Expo 2009

Three new Volvo models to make official debut at the Motor Expo – S40 sedan and 5-door V50 with the country’s first “powershift” transmission system in benzene-engine compact car segment, and the stylish C30 2.0 R-Design; and showcase XC60 with the world’s first innovative City Safety system.


Sustainability leadership reinforced with the offerings of a wide variety of alternative energy engines, including biodiesel D5 and flexifuel engine that can operate on 100% gasoline, or any blend of gasoline and renewable bioethanol up to 85% (E85), The alternative energy cars include XC60 D5, XC60 D5 and S80 2.5FT Flexifuel

Special accessories in C70 2.4i and XC90- D5 available only in the Motor Expo 2009

Volvo cars today officially launched three of its latest vehicles that not only enhance trendsetters’ lifestyle, but also strengthen Volvo’s commitment to sustainable auto technology and the environment. The three new models are S40, 5-door V50 and C30 2.0 R-Design with “Powershift” transmission system for the first time in benzene-engine compact car segment. Also showcased at the event is a full range of Volvo cars powered by alternative fuel technology that addresses the “Driving … For Sustainability” theme of the Motor Expo 2009.

Chantana Vatanarom, President of Volvo Car (Thailand) Co Ltd, said, “This year, we select all the showcased models that best address the young generation’s demand. The three new compact cars in particular will be able to meet the target audience’ demand in terms of their elegantly simple design, powerful engine with Powershift transmission that offers both responsiveness and fuel efficiency, the compact size of the cars that meet urban trendsetters’ lifestyle, and innovative safety features. All of Volvo vehicles are environmental friendly as they produce low emission and increase fuel efficiency. In short, the Volvo cars are what you are looking for in today environment.”
The right choice of vehicles for the young
The three compact -- S40, V50, C30 R-Design with Powershift

Volvo S40 sedan and Volvo 50 estate are powered by 2.0L benzene engine with four cylinders with Powershift transmission system. Both of them produce impressive 145 Hp at 6,000 rpm and 185 Nm at 4,500 rpm. Average fuel consumption is 12.3 km per litre.

Another compact car highlight is the Volvo C30 2.0 R-Design. The chic coupe for urban people also comes with Powershift transmission system for responsiveness and fuel efficiency. It sets to win the young-at-hearts with its sportier look provided by the special R-Design accessories including body-color coordinated front spoiler, tailgate spoiler with LED brake lights, side skirts, matt silver front grill, side mirror caps in Silk Matt finish, 17-inch aluminum wheels “Serapis”, sport steering wheel with R-Design logo, sport gear shift knob, sport pedals, Deco Inlay in new unique R-Design Aluminum Pattern in the centre stack, gray and beige seat upholstery with R-Design graphic.

True to its “Volvo. For Life” commitment, both Volvo S40 and V50 models are fully equipped with innovative safety technologies. They are equipped with the world’s first and only technology that enables drivers to avoid possible accidents with Volvo’s innovative “Blind Spot Information System (BLIS). BLIS comprises a camera integrated in the side mirror that monitors both sides of the car at the rear and will blink when another vehicle, be it motorcycle, bicycle or car, moves into the blind spot. The system will be activated when the car is driven at 10 kph, enabling the driver to control and drive the vehicle safely during day and night time.

Other safety features include the Intelligent Driver Information (IDIS) that helps drivers concentrate fully on the road; Whiplash Protection System (WHIPS); Side Impact Protection (SIP), Inflatable Curtain that work closely with the front airbags for better head protection in case of side collision; and three-point safety belts with pretensioners.
Powershift transmission system – responsive and saves more than 8% of fuel

All the three models are equipped with the Powershift transmission system. Powershift operates in principle as two parallel manual gearboxes. It has twin wet clutches that work independently of one another. One clutch controls the odd gears (1, 3, 5 and reverse) while the other handles the even ratios (2, 4 and 6). The two clutches operate alternately, with one engaging while the other disengages. This means that at the same time as the engine gets full power and maximum thrust in first gear, second gear is placed in readiness to be engaged. And when second gear has been engaged, third gear is readied, and so on. This promotes a continuous flood of power without any disruption in power delivery or any torque loss, resulting in extremely fast and silky-smooth gearchanges while maintaining acceleration throughout the gearchanging process. It also saves up to 8%of fuel while significantly reducing CO2 emission for sustainable environment.
Meeting different lifestyles across all segments

All the new models fit well for different lifestyles and needs. The Volvo S40 is just right for urban people who look for comfort and safety while the V50 is just perfect for urban families who enjoy short excursion on the weekend. Volvo C30 in the meantime sets to fulfill urban individuals with unique style and good taste for design.
XC60 D5 – impressive power in diesel format

In addition to compact cars, Volvo showcased at the Motor Expo 2009 the XC60 D5 that complements Volvo’s full range of vehicle across all categories. The XC60 D5 is powered by new light-weight aluminum bloc turbo diesel engine that is more powerful and more responsive with 205Hp at 4,000 rpm, compared to its 185Hp predecessor, and 420 Nm torque in the 1,500-3,250 rpm range. The vehicle is more responsive and environmental friendly with complete combustion and efficient filter. The XC60 D5 looks more outstanding with chrome trim sport steering wheel and double exhaust pipes.

The XC60 D5 comes with full safety features, especially the innovative “City Safety”, a world first and unique feature that can help the driver reduce, or even completely avoid the type of low-speed impacts that are common in city traffic and traffic tailbacks. If the car is about to drive into the vehicle in front and the driver does not react, the car brakes itself.

City Safety is active if the car's speed is below 30 km/h (19 mph). In situations where the difference in speed between two vehicles is 15 km/h (9 mph) or less, a collision can be avoided completely. In a potential collision situation in which the difference in speed between the vehicles is between 15-30 km/h (9-19 mph), City Safety alone cannot prevent a collision. However, the consequences of the impending collision can be mitigated considerably because the system will intervene to reduce speed when the collision occurs.

The Volvo XC60 D5 also has the Hill Descent Control (HDC), Volvo's sophisticated technology for assisting slow progress in first gear when driving on steep gradients. Using the car's braking system and engine torque, HDC controls the car's speed and maintains a steady crawling speed. The Dynamic Stability and Traction Control system also helps provide even more stable driving. The XC60 D5 is also packed with many innovative safety features that help drivers avoid accident and provide better protection for the driver and passengers.
“Driving For Sustainability”

Reinforcing its alternative energy leadership and supports for the country’s energy dependency policy and agricultural sector, Volvo showcased a full range of alternative energy vehicles as follows:

Diesel-engine (D5) S80 D5, XC60 D5 and XC90 D5, all can support B5 mix without further engine modification:

Flexifuel cars -- C30 1.8F and S80 2.5 FT that can operate on 100% gasoline, or any blend of gasoline and renewable bioethanol up to 85% (E85),
Special offers for Motor Expo 2009 customers

S80 – Special for customers placing booking order for S80 D5, Volvo is offering special packages where buyers can choose two out of the three offers as follows:

- 25% deposit, 0% interest rate for 60 months, Bt37,488 monthly installment payment. Customers can pay in installment for the deposit through Citibank Paylite program with 0% interest rate for six months

- High quality diamond (1 carat) with certificate from the Institute of Gemology HRD Antwerp

- Visit Volvo’s plant in Sweden in a 5-day trip package and a privilege of flying business class with Scandinavian Airline

Volvo C70 2.4i – get free accessories listed below only at Motor Expo 2009!
- Front spoiler with fog light
- 4 exhaust pipes with diffuser
- Sport lowering diffuser
- Sport lowering springs
- 19-inch wheels and tires

XC90 D5 – get free accessories when placing booking order at Motor Expo 2009.
- Color-coordinated accessories
- Chrome trim
- Two-tone front bumper
- Double exhaust pipes
- Side scuff plate
- Sport logo
Price list of all Volvo car models
- S40 2.0 1,799,000 baht
- S80 2.5FT 3,100,000 baht
- S80 D5 2,999,000 baht
- V50 2.0 1,799,000 baht
- XC60 D5 3,999,000 baht
- XC90 D5 3,949,000 baht
- C30 1.8F 1,899,000 baht
- C30 2.0 2,199,000 baht
- C30 2.0 R-Design I 2,399,000 baht
- C30 2.0 R-Design II (with sunroof & Bi-Xenon) 2,499,000 baht
- C70 2.4i 4,299,000 baht

Enjoy special offers and a full range of interesting vehicles from Volvo at the Motor Expo 2009 at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani from December 3-13, 2009.
Fast Facts:

- Volvo Car Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ford Motor Company and is headquartered in Gothenburg Sweden.

- Volvo Cars has been present in Thailand since 1962, firstly through an independent importer/distributor, and then through a wholly owned National Sales Company, Volvo Car (Thailand) Ltd., since 1971. The Company now employs 22 people.

- A local assembly (CKD) factory, Thai Swedish Assemblies (TSA) was established in 1976 and today builds the globally successful Volvo XC90, All-New Volvo S80, Volvo S60, Volvo V70, Volvo V50 and Volvo S40 models in Thailand, employing some 300 people. Volvo Cars also offer the spectacular all-new Volvo C70 retractable hard-top coupe/convertible sports car, the new Volvo C30 three-door sports hatch/coupe and XC60 as fully imported products.

- Volvo is represented in retailing by 8 authorised dealers operating 11 outlets, nationwide. Five in the Bangkok metropolitan area and six in up-country locations as follows, Wearnes (with locations in Hua Mark, Lumpini and Lad Phrao), Gothenburg Automobiles, Srinakarin; Scandinavian Auto, Ramindra; and in other provinces Chiang Mai Sweden Motor, Chiang Mai; Nakornpathom Motor, Nakornpathom; Hat Yai Auto, Songkhla and Phuket; Advance Auto Car, Chon Buri; and Bangkok V.A. Machinery and Parts, Khon Kaen.

- For more information on Volvo Cars' products and services, please refer to www.volvocars.co.th, or contact your nearest authorised dealer.

- Volvo built its first major plant outside Sweden in 1965, just one year after the construction of the present plant in Torslanda (Gothenburg). The first model to be produced in Ghent was the Volvo 120, a.k.a. the Amazon.

- Volvo Cars Ghent currently employs 4,000 employees, building the Volvo C30, S40, V50, S60, and now the new XC60. Production consists of welding, painting and final assembly. The paint shops of the Volvo Cars plants are among the cleanest in the world. Last year Volvo Cars Ghent switched over, like the other Volvo facilities, to 100% green electricity from hydroelectric power.

- For free video content please go to www.media.volvocars.com and click on 'Broadcast Room' to preview and request video. If you haven’t already used this site, please take a moment to register. Once your registration is approved, you can order broadcast-standard video digitally or by tape. Registration and video is free to the media.