According to Tan, the most popular Subaru vehicle is the Forester. This third generation cross-over SUV has received many international awards. It has a sophisticated design and better features, making the car more luxurious.
Other vehicles include the Subaru R1 and R2 as well as the Subaru Exiga, which is a multipurpose vehicle. Launched in Indonesia in early October, the Subaru Exiga has received a warm welcome from the public.
“The Subaru Exiga will find its own market, which is different from the others’ market. With a unique glass roof, theater-style seats and smart turbo drive, the Exiga is the perfect choice for smart customers,” he said.
Tan is aware of the tight competition in Indonesia, saying that other car brands haunt Subaru. To cope with this, Tan will take several measures, including expanding the dealer network. By doing so, he expects sales to increase significantly.
Subaru has a Subaru On-Site Service (SOS) program to ensure customer satisfaction. Subaru owners who have any trouble with their cars, for example if their car breaks down or is not running properly, can be rest assured about service. They do not need to call a tow truck but can instead call SOS and a mobile mechanic will immediately come.
With the SOS program, Subaru is expanding its service area coverage. Subaru service advisors will help customers identify any problem and certified SOS mechanics (trained at the Motor Image Subaru Academy, Singapore) will show up to solve it.
“With SOS, there is no more problem. Customers do not need to drive to our workshop to have their cars fixed,” Tan said.
Besides improving the service and increasing dealers, the management is also developing its human resources by providing them with training.
The training is also aimed at encouraging them to contribute more to the company’s progress. This includes training for mechanics at the Subaru Motor Image Academy, which produces professional and reliable mechanics.
Like other businesspeople and professionals, Tan believes one should never stop learning and always be open to new ideas.
“In living our life and working, we have to keep learning. We learn things every day. Besides, we also have to believe in our capacity and should be open to new ideas,” he said.
Tan has little time for fun. But whenever he does have time, he likes to spend it go-carting, either by himself or with friends. It is fun and it gets the adrenaline pumping. (Faisal Chaniago)
The Jakarta Post, December 23, 2009
