The ATL Automotive Group is now the official regional master dealer for Chinese automaker Foton comprising Jamaica and 12 additional Caribbean countries including Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, Cayman, Curacao, Guyana, St. Lucia, Suriname, and Trinidad. 

This strategic partnership marks a milestone achievement for the Jamaican-grown company and will further solidify its leadership in the Caribbean automotive industry.

“After an extensive tender process, we are thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Foton,” said Adam Stewart, executive chairman of the ATL Automotive Group.

“This regional appointment positions ATL Automotive to oversee Foton’s sales and aftersales operations across Jamaica and the Caribbean, which perfectly aligns with our vision to not only expand our presence but also lead industry transformation through region-wide initiatives.

Founded in 1996, Foton has been the leading commercial vehicle brand in China for 19 consecutive years and is renowned for its commitment to green technology and its comprehensive range of transport solutions.

Foton’s diverse vehicle line-up includes heavy and light-duty trucks, vans, pick-up trucks, minibuses, and more. This partnership enables the ATL Automotive Group to introduce a broader range of vehicles to meet diverse consumer and commercial business needs. 

The importer agreement also establishes a new alliance with Key Motors, the current local dealer for Foton’s medium and heavy commercial vehicles in Jamaica.

“We are pleased to collaborate with the ATL Automotive Group in our collective goal to strengthen the Foton brand regionally”, said Desmond Panton, managing director at Key Motors.  “Customers can expect our operations to continue to run seamlessly, ensuring uninterrupted service. Together, we look forward to expanding the brand’s offerings and meeting diverse local needs more comprehensively.”

While Key Motors retains its existing vehicle product portfolio, the ATL Automotive Group will now assume responsibility as the local dealer for Foton’s light-duty trucks and passenger vehicles, including pickup trucks, minibuses, panel vans, and more.

Stewart echoed Panton’s sentiments, stating, “This partnership with Foton enhances our capability to deliver comprehensive automotive solutions, reaffirming our steadfast commitment to providing exceptional value and service across every segment of the automotive market.”

ATL Automotive aims to establish a strong dealer network across the Caribbean, bolstered by comprehensive sales, aftersales, and marketing strategies. This initiative is designed to fortify Foton’s market presence and elevate customer satisfaction through innovative service and extensive training programmes for dealer partners.

“As the exclusive master dealer, our goal is to set new benchmarks in customer service and vehicle performance, to enhance our reputation as the Caribbean’s leading automotive, with a presence stretching from the Bahamas to the northern reaches of South America. We’re especially pumped about expanding our automotive division into Bonaire and Bermuda for the first time”, said Stewart.

Pre-orders for Foton vehicles through ATL Automotive will commence in July 2024, with deliveries scheduled to begin in late August 2024.  Foton operations will be based initially at the Group’s flagship location on Oxford Road. However, a permanent location is planned for 2025. Service facilities for passenger and light commercial vehicles will be available at Hagley Park Road and Bogue City Centre in Montego Bay, ensuring convenient access for customers across Jamaica.