Autofest to deliver vehicle lessons

Duane Ellis, general manager of the Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA) says this month's Autofest auto fair promises to be more than an auto clinic, as it will deal with "Everything Auto".

Autofest will be held on Saturday at the JAA's Central Avenue headquarters in Kingston from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"We want to present persons with information on all aspects of owning and operating a motor vehicle, ranging from vehicle maintenance, fuel efficiency, road safety and defensive driving," he said.

current issues

Autofest will be an opportunity for Jamaicans to get pertinent information on current issues in the local car industry including recently announced changes in the duty structure for imported motor vehicles and how these changes may be to their benefit.

"Various experts will be present providing information on this issue that we know is of major concern to many motor vehicle owners. We're hoping to use this opportunity to address all these areas in a fulsome way," Ellis said.

Patrons will receive a range of services normally reserved for JAA members, such as free vehicle inspections, battery checks, general car maintenance advice and motor vehicle valuations, which will be done on site. All vehicle inspections will be carried out by the JAA's trained and qualified technicians.

"We will also be having defensive driving demonstrations," Ellis stated. "We have invited the Road Safety Unit and Jamaica Constabulary Force to share with our patrons on road safety issues and road traffic laws."

Additionally, "there will be a used car flea market for interested persons," Ellis said. The aim of this market will be to connect persons with cars for sale, with potential buyers.

The one-day event is being staged with the support of the Insurance Association of Jamaica (IAJ), and will host several insurance companies. Industry representatives will be on hand to provide information about their products and services and new developments within the sector.

Motorists will also interact with a range of the JAA's Show Your Card & Save Discount Partners, which provide services to the organisation's members at reduced rates. The internationally recognised programme offers savings at more than 150 merchants locally.