Jameel has existing relationships with several Chinese manufacturers, including MG, Omoda/Jaecoo and Geely, all of which have already entered the UK market. Other distribution agreements are in place with GAC and Changan, which are in the process of launching here.
“We have another joint venture coming up, which will be announced with another brand, which is a passenger vehicle [venture], so we see that as an opportunity [for the UK],” said Wong.
“It allows you to learn and invest, as it goes, because if I were to launch a car, I would be facing major problems from multiple competitors and would need, in a quick period of time, to find 30 to 50 dealerships across the country.
“For commercial vehicles it’s a bit different. You need to make sure that you get the customer and solve their problems. It’s a question of credibility, meaning to say that if you fail them once, your reputation will be tarnished.
“We are very determined that we don’t want to get it wrong, and then we [should] slowly see that credibility increase.”
Jameel has just opened its new flagship Farizon dealership and headquarters in Park Royal, London. The £1.3 million investment includes a workshop space for servicing and repairs, as well as sales and aftersales.
Wong also hinted that the Farizon commercial vehicle line-up could one day include an electric heavy truck taken from the Farizon International portfolio, as well as a smaller electric van already confirmed for the UK next year.
George Barrow is the editor of van reviews website Van Reviewer and the International Van of the Year jury member for the UK