Punto lands Jucy deal

Fiat has secured its largest-ever fleet sale in this country with 150 Puntos joining Jucy’s rental fleet in a deal valued at more than $2 million. The contract comes at the end of one of best years the marque has enjoyed in New Zealand with sales already sitting at more than 1,000 units making it the country’s fastest-growing automotive brand. “This is a significant sale for Fiat Chrysler NZ and we are honoured to be joining forces with Jucy, which is as renowned for its business innovation and their passion,” says David Smitherman, chief executive officer. “Not only is it a tremendous vote of confidence in the Punto by one of New Zealand’s largest and best-known operators, it also shows that, just 18 months after it was founded, Fiat Chrysler NZ has the people and facilities to support a fleet sale of this scale from our headquarters in Auckland. “We’ve also built a dealer group across the country to back that quality service up wherever Jucy’s clients take their Puntos. This may be the largest fleet sale by Fiat in New Zealand, but – given the range of vehicles offered by Fiat Chrysler and our facilities – I’m in no doubt it will not be last fleet sale on this scale.” Founded in New Zealand by brothers Tim and Dan Alpe, Jucy Rentals operates in Australia, the US and UK having expanded from its original base of campervans targeting the youth and young-at-heart market into car rental, hotels and a cruise company at Milford Sound. “The Punto is a perfect fit for Jucy meeting our values of fun, family, passion and price,” says Dan Alpe, chief operating officer. “It is stylish and fun to drive, but at the same time it’s practical, economical and safe. This makes it an ideal car for in-bound tourists looking for a car to see as much of New Zealand as possible on a driving holiday. “In particular, European visitors for which the brand and model are familiar will make the Punto an easy choice. For Kiwis looking for a rental that doesn’t look or drive like a basic car, the Punto is a winner.” The Punto has been a Fiat mainstay for more than 20 years and its current third generation has sold nearly nine million units around the world. It’s priced from $17,990 plus on-road costs.