Not only is the new Tata Bolt right up to date in terms of design, space utilisation and relevant, advanced technology, but it has features in its infotainment system that are usually found only on more upmarket cars.
It also has the backing of the major Imperial Group to ensure peace of mind for the owner as it means top class dealerships with excellent after-sales service. There is a wide spread of dealerships in Southern Africa, with 59 servicing facilities and 43 sales outlets. This includes five dedicated Tata dealerships owned by the Imperial Group, with the other dealers being part of the Imperial Group’s multi-franchise automotive representation.
“We have done extensive soul-searching and listened to customer feedback to improve the after-sales operations at the dealers,” explained Kyri Michael, the CEO of Accordian Investments, the Imperial Group Company responsible for the Tata car and light commercial vehicle franchise in South Africa.
“We realise that a reliable parts supply is critical and have restructured and streamlined the logistics of our parts operation which is based at two warehouses, covering 3 000m2, in Meadowdale. Stockholding has been increased to more than R20-million and we have a first time pick rate of about 92% at present and aim to improve on that figure going forward.
“We have established a three-tier supply route for parts from Tata in India. The first tier is bulk shipments by sea, the second is regular airfreight supply and the third tier is for vehicles off road (VOR) which we can prioritise and aim to receive the parts in 48 hours. There are daily deliveries to all the dealers and those in Gauteng can collect parts more often if necessary.
“Properly trained people are the key to an effective customer care programme and here we have contracted the Imperial Training and Technical Academy to ensure we have knowledgeable staff at our dealers and in the head office. We also have permanent technical representatives from Tata on assignment in South Africa to assist where and when necessary,” added Michael.
The Tata Bolt comes with a 5-year/100 000km factory warranty, 2-year/30 000km service plan and 5-year roadside assistance with the option of extending the period of the service plan.
“We believe we have already gone the extra mile in preparing for the launch of the long-anticipated Bolt as a catalyst to ignite consumer interest in our brand and its products,” said Michael. “We see the Bolt hatch and sedan as ideal to fulfil the needs of many South African motorists and believe we have the right product at the right price for the South African market so using the advertising pay off line ‘Make it your choice’ is very apt,” concluded the Accordian Investments CEO, Kyri Michael.
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