Re: Re: Peugeot's return to North America
From: Robert S. Bast (bastrood@gmavt.net)
Date: Sat 30 Nov 2002 - 12:45:13 EST
This recent thread has a number of good points, and if PSA is reading
this, I hope that our comments are indeed constructive and useful. Mine
are simply to reinforce two or three themes of others
- That Citroen has a powerful and enduring name recognition and
eyecatching quality (in at least some of their models) that would make
initial market penetration easier. If I mention to someone that i am a
citroen owner (one cit, two peugeots), most often I will be answered
with recognition, even if it is just 'werent those the cars with air
suspension?' . Patient explanations of the suspensions aside, there is
recognition. Any of us know that honda's 'insight' was not just in the
hybrid under the hood, but in how to adapt an original citroen design.
Citroens like the Picasso and the C3 would sell very well here.
-The Hdi technology and feel is fabulous. Anyone who has gone over to
France in the past few years and cajoled the rental agency into renting
them a fine Peugeot or Citroen has come away hugely impressed. I think
these cars could do well here.
- DEALERS- the real mantra. PSA makes some fabulous cars, and they
will inspire loyalty, but it is the service end of things that will
ultimately win over a growing group of customers. These dealers need
education of their mechanics, support and faith of the company, mutual
respect. It is important in America that PSA listen to and respond to
dealer feedback. Once again I point out that the service capabilities
of my local dealer, still there, keep a substantial number of Peugeots
AND Citroens, and while they are at it, Renaults on the road. People
bring their cars here from Montreal, even. Peugeots last if you know
what to look after, and this place is a clear example of how to do it
right.
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