Confusion Over Volkswagen Vehicles In Bermuda
[Updated] There is some confusion over which company will be dealing with Volkswagen vehicles, as Auto Solutions said they have been informed by Volkswagen they intend to make the Ascendant Group “their local representative in Bermuda,” while Ascendant said they do “not have an agreement with Volkswagen, or any other automotive manufacturer, to retail or service cars at this time.”
In a letter addressed to Auto Solutions’ VW customers, Managing Director Glen Smith said, “We have been informed by Volkswagen [Latin America] that they intend to make The Ascendant Group of Companies [the owner of BELCO] their local representative in Bermuda.
“While we learned of VW’s decision in early February, they have yet to inform us what arrangements have been made with Ascendant to service VW cars going forward. However, to ensure that your immediate service and repair needs are met, we will do our best to service VW vehicles until May 31st, 2018 which is when our access to VW’s diagnostic equipment is due to expire.
“Thereafter, it will be for VW Latin America or their new representative to provide the necessary infrastructure and support to maintain the VW brand. While we are sad to say farewell to the VW brand, we wish their new representative well.”
Auto Solutions continues to represent and service seven leading car manufacturer brands: Suzuki, Hyundai, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Honda and Daihatsu, and Mr Smith also commented, “We are really excited about our 2018 line up of cars including the introduction of the all-electric, zero emission, Nissan Leaf, named “Best Electric Car” in London’s 2018 What Car Awards.
“Our first shipment of Nissan Leafs arrived last week and we are confident this spacious four door hatchback will be a hot ticket item in the local car market. Many customers have already been in touch requesting test drives and have expressed a keen interest in switching over to Auto Solution’s Leaf. The EV market is upon us and we are happy to lead the way.
“Our priority is to continue to be the leading car dealership in Bermuda. We believe that our high level of customer care and attention, our great staff and our exciting lineup of 2018 and 2019 cars, including award winning electric cars, will keep Bermudians and residents rolling with us.”
However, the Ascendant said they do “not have an agreement with Volkswagen, or any other automotive manufacturer, to retail or service cars at this time” and they “regret that customers of Auto Solutions are being advised otherwise.”
The company said, “Ascendant Group Limited [AGL] is aware of a letter being distributed by Auto Solutions Ltd regarding its own Volkswagen Dealership Status.
“We cannot speak to Auto Solutions’ own relationship with Volkswagen; however, can confirm that AGL does not have an agreement with Volkswagen, or any other automotive manufacturer, to retail or service cars at this time. We regret that customers of Auto Solutions are being advised otherwise.”
Subsequent to Ascendant’s statement, Auto Solutions again reiterated to Bernews that they have “been told by VW at least 3 or 4 times that Ascendant Group has been awarded the franchise,” and said it has also been mentioned at TCD.
As it stands now, it is unclear who will be the representative, however we will update as able.
Update March 15th: The situation remains unclear, as Ascendant also reiterated their point, saying, “At this point in time, neither Ascendant, nor any of its subsidiary companies have any agreement in place with Volkswagen.
“Subsequent to Ascendant’s statement, Auto Solutions again reiterated to Bernews that they have “been told by VW at least 3 or 4 times that Ascendant Group has been awarded the franchise,” and said it has also been mentioned at TCD.”
Please ask to see any correspondence from VW.
That’s probably a tough blow to Auto Solutions, but BRILLIANT of Ascendant….. in a few years, many cars will be electric, and have very few ‘parts’ to replace (which is where the car dealerships really make their money) — and what a great way to expand the business while at the same time spreading the BELCO ‘plant’ costs across more users. With so many people having left the island in recent years, less people are shouldering the same burden of costs. Great vision, Ascendant!!
“…at this time” might be the clue here. Let’s hope so anyway.
What market is this model Leaf from? US and UK markets all show a 40kwh battery but the one coming here only has a 30kwh battery.
It’s rumored to be last years model – this year’s is supposedly too big for Bermuda. But I stand to be corrected.
I am interested in the VW e-Golf. Still waiting for that to be sold in Bermuda.
Great….more belco bills going up! SMFH!
Well if it was heard at TCD it must be the truth.