The vehicle market in the region and more so St. Lucia has taken and interesting turn away from its traditional stance.
Chinese vehicles are now very present on St. Lucian roads from brands like BYD and GWM. The latest to be unveiled is The Guangzhou Automobile Corporation {GAC} under the roof of the Peter and Company Group. Thursday evening’s unveiling at the Peter and Company showroom on Vide Boutielle brought together industry leaders, bankers, insurance agents and consumers.
Regional Distributors, Motorworld Group, says the response to the newly introduced product has been phenomenal. Dylan Smith is the Regional Brand and Logistics Manager who highlighted that the GAC brand is not a new entity but rather a company that opened its doors in 1948 manufacturing auto parts. “Since 1998 every single honda that is sold in China is produced by GAC. More importantly, as of last year, Honda has allowed Hondas that are produced by GAC in China to now be sold in Japan. Since 2004, they have produced every Toyota that has been sold in China, since 2007 every Hino, 2010 every Fiat/Chrysler, 2012 every Mitsubishi.” GAC also started their electric vehicle company in 2017 and reportedly sold 2 million vehicles in 2024.
In an effort to service the region more effectively, a parts distribution warehouse has already been established in Panama. Smith believes that one of the key selling points of the newly introduced brand is warranty being offered, boasting “it is the best in St. Lucia.”
With interest building in the local market, the regional distributors have gone ahead with plans to introduce other models in the GAC line. Those new products are expected in early 2026 and will reportedly include both electric and ICE {Internal Combustion Engine} vehicles.