With Sri Lanka on the brink of relaxing vehicle import restrictions, Associated Motorways (AMW) has raised alarms about the spread of false vehicle pricing information on social media platforms. The company, a prominent figure in the local automotive sector and the exclusive distributor for brands such as Suzuki, attributes the misleading prices to a faction they refer to as the “registered car sales mafia.” This group, according to AMW, aims to artificially depress the market value of used vehicles by circulating inaccurate price data for new imports.
Clarifying Vehicle Pricing
AMW has underscored that the prices for their vehicles are carefully calculated based on various factors, including:
- Import Duties: Taxes imposed on imported goods that significantly influence final pricing.
- Taxes and Levies: Additional governmental charges that impact the overall cost.
- Exchange Rates: Fluctuations in currency values that affect import costs.
- Transportation Fees: Costs associated with shipping vehicles to Sri Lanka.
- Service Charges: Additional fees for services related to vehicle sales and distribution.
Director Viran De Soyza expressed concern over the proliferation of misleading information, urging consumers to rely on verified sources, especially during this critical transition period where the potential for importing vehicles is emerging.
Expected Prices for Upcoming Models
In their effort to provide clarity, AMW has outlined the anticipated prices for several key vehicle models, indicating that these are subject to conditions and could change based on official government announcements regarding import policies:
- Suzuki Alto K10 (1L, Automatic): Rs. 6,700,000
- Suzuki S-Presso (1L, Automatic): Rs. 6,900,000
- Suzuki Celerio (1L, Automatic): Rs. 7,100,000
- Suzuki Fronx (1L Turbo, Automatic): Rs. 10,750,000
- Nissan Magnite (1L, Automatic): Rs. 7,600,000
- Nissan Magnite (1L Turbo, Automatic): Rs. 8,500,000
- Nissan Almera (1L Turbo, Automatic): Rs. 12,600,000
- Nissan Urvan (15-seater): Rs. 16,100,000
Legal Implications of False Information
AMW further cautioned that the dissemination of false information carries serious legal repercussions, as it constitutes a punishable offense under Sri Lankan law. The company stressed the importance of responsible behavior when sharing information online, particularly in light of the economic sensitivities surrounding vehicle imports.
Encouraging Consumer Vigilance
To combat the spread of misinformation, AMW encourages all potential buyers to verify any claims regarding vehicle pricing through reliable sources, particularly authorized dealers. The company is committed to keeping customers informed with accurate data and ensuring transparency in the pricing of vehicles as the import landscape evolves.
In summary, as Sri Lanka navigates potential changes in vehicle import regulations, AMW remains dedicated to educating consumers about genuine pricing and safeguarding against fraudulent claims that could adversely affect the automotive market.
