| 29 T T Karen Phelps Bringing a personal approach Dunedin Kia is locally owned and operated by Matt Smaill and founder Neil Videler. REGIONAL Dunedin Kia Great choice of car. A great choice of nance. mtf.co.nz Responsible lending criteria and checks, terms, conditions and fees apply. Seemtf.co.nz/terms For Dunedin Kia dealer principal Matt Smaill owning and operating a business in the city is an opportunity to employ local people, support other businesses and contribute to the wider economic development of the region. “I was born and bred in this city and it’s a great place to live with great people,” says Matt. “It’s a privilege to run a business here.” Dunedin Kia is locally owned and operated by Matt and founder Neil Videler, who have built the business since Neil became a Kia franchise holder in Dunedin in the early 2000s. Matt brought a background in mechanical work and vehicle sales to the business. Today Matt is responsible for the day-to-day running of the dealership while Neil provides strategic advice and maintains an overview of the business. Matt says that local ownership is one of Dunedin Kia’s key points of difference in a dealership market where many businesses are owned by large corporates. “The advantage for our customers is that they can talk directly to the owner of the business,” says Matt. “It’s a much more personal approach.” Dunedin Kia employs a long-standing team, with several staff members having been with the business for more than 20 years, providing valuable experience and continuity for customers. The business also contributes to the community by sponsoring local sports teams, helping strengthen the connections between the dealership and the people and organisations that make up the region. Its relationship with Kia provides another important connection to the wider automotive industry, giving Dunedin customers access to a manufacturer that has established a strong reputation for design and technological development. “What sets Kia apart is that it is always trying to improve and push the boundaries of design and innovation. It’s unrelenting in the drive towards perfection and providing a superior product. Kia is often ahead of its time,” says Matt. The shift towards electric vehicles and hybrids is one area where that innovation is particularly evident. Changing fuel prices and international events are contributing to increased interest in alternatives to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. “I believe we are in the middle of the revolution towards EVs and hybrids,” says Matt. “In the next 10 years the traditional petrol and diesel vehicles will almost be gone. The industry is moving quickly towards an alternative fuel source.” Among the latest vehicles attracting attention is the fully electric Kia PV5 van, which is designed with businesses and fleets in mind. With a low step-in height, up to 4,420 litres of cargo capacity and lower energy and servicing costs, it could have particular relevance for tradespeople and other local businesses.
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