Chinese automobile brand Jetour will soon have a more visible presence in upper St Andrew.

Tyre Warehouse Automotive, the exclusive dealer for Jetour in Jamaica, is preparing to open a showroom for the brand at Mary Brown’s Corner on Manning’s Hill Road in “six to eight weeks”, according to Sales and Marketing Manager Brenton Richards.

“We [now] have a temporary showroom down at South Camp Road, but that’s going to be our permanent showroom and parts department… that’s a projection, if all goes well,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

Richards explained that the showroom, which sits on commercial space formerly occupied by White Bones restaurant, “is ideally located, based on the vision of the company”.

“There’s no car dealer uptown in that region, in that area,” he said. “We’re just trying to ensure that we bring affordable cars to the Jamaican public.”

Richards did not disclose the size of the investment or amenities of the showroom, noting that plans are underway for an official launch, but said the facility will primarily showcase SUVs.

It will be one of two official showrooms for Jetour in Jamaica, with a second location in Montego Bay.

Jetour, which mainly manufactures SUVs and crossovers, is among a wave of Chinese automakers looking to get a foothold in Jamaica’s vehicle market with a focus on affordability, style, and innovation.

Among the strategies is the offering of longer warranties than are given on more established brands.

At Jetour in Jamaica, the warranty with the purchase of a vehicle stretches up to six years or 150,000 kilometres. Three years of service or 42,500km, and one-year vehicle monitoring are additional sweeteners offered by Tyre Warehouse Automotive with the purchase of a vehicle, according to the company website.

BYD, MG and BAIC are among other Chinese car brands which are increasing their presence locally.

— Julian Richardson