Big used car show in Bangkok July 22-26

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Big used car show in Bangkok July 22-26 
Bangkok Post: 7 Jul 2009
www.BangkokPost.com

Used-car show aims to lift image

The country's first used-car show will be staged this month with an aim to upgrade the standard of the second-hand vehicle market and stimulate the economy, say the organisers, Grand Prix International Co.

The Bangkok Used Car Show 2009 will be held at Impact Muang Thong Thani from July 22-26. It will feature more than 1,000 pre-owned cars from automakers and second-hand dealers throughout Thailand.

One of the highlights will be the revival by Wasant Phophimphanon, the chairman of Benz Thonglor Group, of his "Marketplace of the Formerly Rich" - a popular attraction during the 1997-98 crisis - with a selection of well-maintained classic cars for sale.

In general, the used-car market has always been three times larger in growth than the new car market, said Jaturon Komolmis, senior vice-president of Grand Prix International, which also organises the annual Bangkok International Motor Show.

The company has collaborated with more than 20 leading used car dealers to help elevate the segment and systematise the market as well as improve consumer confidence.

"We aim for this event to help rectify pessimistic perceptions about used cars by some people who do not believe in the quality of second-hand vehicles," said Mr Jaturon. "Every used car to be showcased in this event is fully traceable and is maintained in good condition as all of them are from reliable dealers with proven track records."

He said buyers would also have access to financial assistance and every car would have a check-up warranty from the Department of Land Transport. "On the whole, we are establishing a new standard for the Thai used car industry with this event."

The vehicles available will range from passenger cars to luxury sedans to supercars, with prices from 200,000 to 15 million baht. Highlights include a Ferrari F460, Lamborghini Gallardo, Lamborghini Murcielago, Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG, and many other Japanese models.

Visitors will be given tips on how to select the right second-hand car for different purposes. In addition, every buyer can participate in a draw to win a new car valued at more than 500,000 baht and two motorbikes.

Mr Jaturon said the event would also feature the Best Resale Value Award, which has been used in the United States and England to encourage dealers to provide quality cars to consumers.

The organisers expect 10,000 to 20,000 visitors a day at the show, which is free.