On June 19, Sime Darby Auto Italia Sdn Bhd (Auto Italia), the main distributor for Alfa Romeo in Malaysia signed an agreement with the Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM) to provide 24-hour road assistance to its customers.

The two-year free support, called Alfa Care, will cover critical services such as towing and minor on-site repairs for every Alfa Romeo sold by Auto Italia. This latest customer-focused initiative by the company, a subsidiary of the Sime Darby, is aimed at making Alfa Ownership in Malaysia a worry-free experience.

The agreement was signed by Sime Darby Motor Group (Malaysia/Thailand) Managing Director Mr Rajan Thurairatnam and AAM Chairman YM Tunku Mudzaffar bin Tunku Mustapha at Auto Italia's head office and main 3S centre at Glenmarie recently.

Since assuming the role of main distributor in August last year, Auto Italia has been focussing on delivering real value to Alfa owners in the country as part of its strategy to grow Alfa Romeo into desirable luxury brand.

"Today, Alfa owners enjoy professional and reasonably priced aftersales support and readily available parts. We have also taken the bold step of offering a 2-year warranty and an unprecedented 3-year free maintenance package for all new cars purchased from us. We have now made Alfa ownership an even more attractive proposition with free 24-hour roadside assistance", said Mr Rajan.

YM Tunku Datuk Mudzaffar said that the association is proud to work with Auto Italia to support a renowned marque like Alfa Romeo.

"The brand continues to evoke strong passion and emotion among discerning motoring enthusiasts. We will work closely with Auto Italia to ensure that our staff are well trained to handle this new generation of Alfa Romeos with cutting-edge technology", he said.

The latest benefit for Alfa lovers came on the heels of an announcement by Auto Italia of a unique service campaign exclusive for 2006 covering a comprehensive list of commonly requested services for all models of the Italian marque.

The campaign will enable Alfa owners to plan in advance so that they can take advantage of reasonably priced packages troughout the year and not just limited period as is the case with many promotions.

Most of the oil change packages offered by Auto Italia also come with three price options depending on the type of engine oil used. This allows the customer thge flexibility to choose based on his budget and preference instead of being forced to use a premium-priced oil that might not be necessary for his car.

For more information on Auto Italia's 24-hour roadside assistance programme and latest aftersalesprogrammes and offers, please visit www.autoitalia.com.my or call 03-5569 8800 or email Auto Italia Aftersales Manager, Amrick Singh, at amrick@simedarby.com.