Damián Rudaszewski, president of DALIAN SA: “Buying a Chinese car is no longer a risk, it is an opportunity”

Today, Argentina has an increasingly wide range of vehicles from Chinawhich range from SUVs to pickups and sedans, with technological systems that were previously only seen in Europe or the United States. The expertise of local importers and dealers became key to ensuring that these cars not only reached the country, but were backed in terms of spare parts, technical service and warranty, allaying buyers’ historical fears about reliability and resale.

Why it is advisable to buy a Chinese car in Argentina

In this context, Damián Rudaszewski, president of DALIAN SAcompany that includes official dealers of brands such as Jetour and Geelyamong others, ensures that “buying a Chinese car is no longer a risk, it is an opportunity”. According to Rudaszewski, “personally, I recommend it, as I am a specialist in China automotive industry for 10 years and I know what I’m selling, because I know what’s happening on the other side of the world.”

The businessman highlights that the Chinese automotive industry is relatively new, with most brands emerging between 1990 and 2000, and that new companies are constantly appearing. “Putting all Chinese brands in the same bag is a big mistake that the average consumer usually makes, who does not know what is happening in other countries”he explains. Rudaszewski says that he traveled personally and was able to see fully robotized factories and the largest automotive market in the world, which even surpassed USA.

According to the president of DALIAN, the advance of Chinese cars is not exclusive to Argentina: “It also happens in Latin America. Just by going to Uruguay, Chile or China, you realize the impressive number of dealers and brands that exist.” At the same time, he recognizes that not all brands will survive: “There will be a discard, and there the role of the importer is key. Success depends largely on how the dealer network and after-sales are put together.”

Rudaszewski details that dealers who have worked with Asian brands for years have an advantage because they know the structure of the groups, the evolution of the brands and how they operate in China. “Everyone will eventually know how to sell Chinese cars, because in the end they are cars. But the dealers who have been coming from Asian brands for a long time have learned something that others are just beginning to acquire,” says.

The businessman emphasizes that one of the buyer’s great fears is what happens if the car breaks down or needs spare parts: “The warranty depends on the importer. Buying a self-imported vehicle without support means that no one is going to guarantee the unit or provide after-sales service. In addition, the official scanners of each brand have specific functions that generic ones cannot cover, and staff training is essential.”

Rudaszewski explains that the profile of the Argentine buyer changed compared to a decade ago. Before, Chinese cars were mainly functional and economical: “They had specific features at an affordable price, like a 7-seater Van cheaper than a Spin.” Today, consumers value technology and design: large screens, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, automatic parking and more than 200 functions that make the car act almost like a virtual assistant.”

jetour-va

Jetour X70, technological SUV.

Regarding competition with traditional brands, Rudaszewski comments that “They play with financing, but we also offer competitive financial products through agreements with banks and with the support of importers”.

The businessman points out that The installation of Chinese brands in Mercosur ensures predictability and continuity. “Almost all Chinese brands are willing to establish themselves in the region, with factories in Brazil or Mercosur agreements that avoid extra-zone tariffs. This allows for long-term planning and generates confidence in the buyer.”

Rudaszewski concludes that the combination of importer support, dealer network, technology and financial offer turns Chinese cars into a true purchasing opportunity. “Today, an Argentine buyer can access innovative, safe and guaranteed vehicles, without the risk that many associated with Chinese cars 10 years ago. The key is to choose the right brand and importer, and the market has already shown that this combination works”he assures.