INTERVIEW
TAKING ONLINE ON THE ROAD
Fredrick Vimal, general manager, SalesRenault, Al Masaood Automobiles talks about how the new Renault Duster Cargo can help companies taking on the last mile
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ast month saw Al Masaood Automobiles, the authorised distributor of Renault in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Western region, launch the all-new and highly customisable 2022 Renault Duster Cargo SUV. The launch couldn’t be more timely in a market that is finally embracing the concept of last mile deliveries. As more of us are moving online, now really is the time for fleets to take on vehicles that are nimble and flexible to get moving in the ‘new normal’. Fredrick Vimal, General Manager, Sales-Renault Abu Dhabi, tells T&FME 12 AUGUST 2021
that he wants to use the Duster Cargo SUV to position Al Masaood Automobiles as a modernising pioneer in the market and help change the mindset of fleets along the way. Having started his career in the advertising and retail sectors before spending the past two decades in the automotive industry, he believes that the vehicle is the best answer for SMEs wanting the best last mile delivery solution for their business. Especially as we all come to terms with a post-pandemic world. “Two years ago, the time would not have been right,” he says. “But we have seen how popular this model is in Europe – you know
We’re sitting in a market that’s a long way behind Europe”
Renault is one of the most popular brands in Europe, particularly in France. We wanted to replicate and have this particular Duster commercial model in our market, so we spent a lot of time trying to understand how best we can offer it. When the pandemic came, we saw a great opportunity because people really began moving online. You know, one of the major credit card companies said that 73% purchases are now made online.” He pauses to reflect: “Never before did I think I would be purchasing online, so I’m a good example of what millions of others are now doing.” “This is the new normal. And since meconstructionnews.com
