Distribution shift for Higer, JAC

Automotive Holdings Group Ltd (AHG) has taken over the distribution of the Higer range of buses and coaches and the JAC range of light trucks, after acquiring the local rights to the two Chinese brands after previous importer White Motor Corporation (WMC) was placed into voluntary administration last October.

At meeting in Sydney on January 7 at administrators BDO Australia a resolution was passed to voluntarily wind up WMC, with White Motor Corporation (Australia) Pty Ltd, JAC Motors Pty Ltd, and WMC Bus Pty Ltd all going into liquidation.

AHG assumed full control of Higer and JAC last month, and says that with its backing both brands can look to a bright future in Australia.

WMC also previously handled the distribution of Chinese-made LDV vans, before the rights to that brand passed to independent importer Ateco Automotive last year.

All WMC staff, including company CEO Neil Bamford, are believed to have transferred to AHG in the shift.

In a press release, Mr Bamford – CEO for Higer Bus and Coach Australia – said the change of distributor would place Higer on a very solid footing.

"We are looking forward to the opportunities that this brings," he said.

"AHG is the largest automotive retail company in Australia. After an involvement with Higer for a number of the years, the decision by AHG to take over the business is a vote of confidence for the Higer brand in Australia."

A number of AHG dealerships had featured in the Higer distribution network under WMC.

AHG Managing Director, Bronte Howson, said the deal would deliver benefits for AHG, Higer and its customer base.

"AHG has had a lengthy association with Higer as an import partner and, with a number of new products being brought to market, we see significant growth potential in the brand," he said.

"Higer produces a range of quality buses that are suitable for the local market as we build the brand's reputation and sales. That outcome will also benefit existing and future customers of Higer in Australia."

AHG has said it will support all existing Higer warranties, and anticipated there would be no disruption to outstanding vehicle orders.

Higer currently offers seven models in Australia with seating capacities from 20 to 58 people.