Volkswagen Ghana boss highlights benefits of locally assembled vehicles at new Amarok launch
The CEO of Volkswagen Ghana and President of the Automobile Assemblers Association of Ghana (AAAG), Jeffrey Oppong Peprah, has reiterated the importance of purchasing locally assembled vehicles to drive economic growth and reduce reliance on imported cars.
Speaking at the launch of the new Volkswagen Amarok in Accra on Tuesday, Mr. Peprah outlined the economic, environmental, and employment benefits of supporting Ghana's burgeoning automobile assembly industry.
Driving industry growth
Highlighting the transformative potential of Ghana's automotive industry, Mr. Peprah emphasised the strategic importance of locally assembled vehicles in reducing the importation of used cars and stimulating the domestic economy.
“Locally assembled vehicles can help create a sustainable automotive industry in Ghana. They generate jobs, provide competitive pricing, and contribute to economic growth. If we promote locally produced cars, we can gradually replace imported vehicles, creating a domestic used-car market and significantly reducing the reliance on imports," he said.
The CEO also pointed out that taxes on imported cars, such as the proposed 35 percent levy on vehicles between one to five years old, could increase the competitiveness of Ghana-assembled models.
"We are engaging the government to implement measures that make it more advantageous to purchase local vehicles. This includes reducing costs for locally assembled cars and incentivising their adoption through specialised financing options," Mr. Peprah explained.
The AAAG also aims to integrate informal sector workers, particularly those in automotive repairs, into the modern industry through education and skills training, ensuring they can adapt to new automotive technologies.
New Volkswagen Amarok
The launch event also spotlighted the latest Volkswagen Amarok, a robust pickup tailored to Ghana's diverse terrains and industries. The new Amarok boasts advanced features, including a 10-speed automatic transmission and powerful engine options designed for high performance in construction and mining sectors.
“This vehicle is made for all terrains. It can navigate mining pits, handle off-road challenges, and also serve as a comfortable family car. Its versatility and durability make it ideal for the Ghanaian market,” Mr. Peprah remarked.
The Amarok is available in multiple trims, including the high-end Aventura and PanAmericana models, featuring luxurious interiors, cutting-edge safety systems, and enhanced off-road capabilities. All models come with a three-year/120,000 km warranty, underscoring Volkswagen's commitment to quality and reliability.
Vision for the future
Volkswagen Ghana's investment in local assembly aligns with the government’s automotive policy aimed at fostering local production and reducing vehicle imports.
Mr. Peprah expressed optimism for the future, citing opportunities to strengthen local manufacturing capabilities and improve vehicle affordability through flexible payment plans and government-backed financing schemes.