RAC and OMODA announce roadside assistance partnership
OMODA has set a benchmark for Chinese car manufacturers, announcing a partnership with the RAC to provide every new 1.6 petrol OMODA 5 and all-electric OMODA E5 models with a full roadside assistance package. The cover is free throughout OMODA’s seven-year manufacturer’s warranty period, so long as servicing is carried out at an OMODA and JAECOO service centre within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
OMODA’s approach to partnering with several leading suppliers will help to build trust with consumers as it establishes itself in the competitive UK market. It has already signed agreements with DHL to manage parts supply, Octopus Energy Group for preferential EV tariffs, home charging installations and leasing solutions, and Thatcham Research for insurance. This latest signing makes OMODA the first Chinese car manufacturer to partner with the RAC, underpinning the brand’s comprehensive aftersales strategy.
The RAC package gives all OMODA customers peace of mind that in the unlikely event that the car does breakdown and cannot be fixed at the roadside, they will be transported to the dealer nearest their home. The OMODA dealer network currently covers 75 locations, with plans to expand to 100 sites by the end of the year, ensuring that all customers have nationwide access to sales and aftersales.
Every new OMODA vehicle will initially come with one year’s free RAC roadside assistance, with the policy automatically renewing for a further year when serviced at an OMODA dealership for up to seven years. The RAC cover will also transfer with the vehicle in the event of a change of ownership.
Victor Zhang, Executive Vice President of OMODA UK said:
“This partnership with the RAC is the latest pillar in our wider aftersales proposition. As a new entrant to the UK, we know we have to earn the trust of the UK consumer and the RAC’s reputation will help give customers peace-of-mind. We’re very confident in the quality and reliability of our cars, but partnering with the RAC means that if customers do find themselves in need, most will get help within an hour, and 4 out of 5 cars will be fixed on the spot.”
John Ellis, RAC head of OEM roadside, said:
“We’re proud to partner with OMODA as it enters the UK market and give confidence to its new customers that they’ll be in safe hands in the unlikely event of a breakdown. Whether in one of the brand’s new petrol or electric models, drivers will receive the same high standard of service for which the RAC is renowned.
“OMODA has ambitious plans to expand its presence in the UK in the years to come, and we’re delighted to have been chosen as the driving services company that is best equipped to support with this.”
The OMODA 5 is a dynamic fastback featuring a 187 bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, and has been designed to stand out from the crowd. Inside, the car features two 10.25” high-resolution screens, multi-colour interior lighting, wireless phone charging and a full suite of ADAS safety technologies.
The all-electric OMODA E5 is powered by a 150 kW (204 bhp) electric motor and a 61 kWh ‘blade’ battery. With optimised aerodynamics, the OMODA E5 offers a WLTP range of 257 miles. The electric crossover SUV can charge up to 80 kW, with a 30% to 80% top-up possible in just 28 minutes.
Both OMODA 5 and OMODA E5 models have been awarded a five-star EuroNCAP safety rating and come with a seven-year / 100,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty as standard.
