Novel Ford’s showroom at Oshakati is a new car dealer doubling up as a service centre.
Though Namibia is seen as ‘bakkie country’, especially the northern parts of the country, they also sell smaller family cars, sales manager Anton Kandjimbi says.
Novel Ford stocks all Ford 4×4 and 4×2 vehicles, like the Ford flagship brands Ranger, Everest and Tremor.
Kandjimbi says the Raptor is the all-time favourite, as the dealer cannot keep up with demand.
“As you can see on the floor, there is no Ranger Raptor here – as soon as one arrives, it is gone,” he says.
The Raptor is a popular vehicle with its powerful engine and aggressive appearance.
Its factory specifications are pretty impressive among those who either drive or want to drive this vehicle.
The 3.0l V6 engine is capable of delivering a massive 292kW @5650rpm, delivering 583Nm @3600rpm – hence its popularity.
The 10-speed auto gearbox ensures fuel efficiency for such a large truck, and according to the specs, 11.5l/100km (combined) is indicated.
These calculations are valid under normal driving conditions.
The vehicle’s 4×4 capacity is above expectation, and with a ground clearance of 272mm, it is a ‘go almost anywhere’ vehicle.
Its water wade of 850mm gives the Raptor quite an advantage against most of the other 4x4s in its class when it comes to crossing water obstacles.
The magnitude of safety and comfort features explain exactly why this vehicle is popular among those who own one. With all the safety features and specifications expected from Ford, the Raptor is a master when it comes to towing heavy equipment. Its towing capabilities include twin front tow hooks, twin rear recovery tow hooks and an integrated tow bar rated at 2.5 tonnes.
Kandjimi assures northern clients that they are up to standard when it comes to products, sales, after sales service and back-up, as expected from any local Ford dealer.
As part of the dealer’s service to clients, Novel Ford Oshakati provides the finance and insurance to potential clients.
Meanwhile, sales executive Immanuel Hamunyela says anyone who walks through the door is treated like a potential customer.
Taking Top Revs through the showroom recently, Hamunyela detailed what is available on the floor, ranging from double to single cab bakkies, as well as sedans.
Hamunyela shared his knowledge of the different models, and said the thing about owning a Ford is the expectation of getting the best after-sales service, regardless of where you buy the vehicle.