McLaren Automotive’s Johannesburg showroom is set to open in Sandton in September and will be operated by the Daytona Group. The showroom promises customers a unique experience, featuring a first-class showroom environment and car configuration facilities.

In preparation, workshop technicians, service managers and body technicians from South Africa, underwent an intensive six day training workshop at the McLaren Technology Centre (MTC) in Woking, UK in July. The training was developed to ensure that the dealers are fully prepared to manage McLaren Automotive’s aftersales procedures.

Trainees received practical one-to-one hands-on training including diagnostic tool operation, carbon repair techniques and customer interaction skills, before taking part in a special session where they were able to drive the MP4-12C themselves and develop an understanding of the supercar’s dynamics. In addition, the training included a special tour of the MTC, where technicians were introduced to McLaren’s Formula 1 history, visited the Formula 1 race team workshop, as well as the MP4-12C production line.

Ian Gorsuch, McLaren Automotive regional director, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific said: “We are extremely excited to see our new McLaren showrooms taking shape. Our aim at McLaren Automotive is to deliver outstanding customer service that reflects the three values that drives the McLaren brand – courage, passion and innovation. We aim to do that by educating our dealers about the brand, our values and heritage. In turn they will deliver the highest standards of customer service, tailored individually for each and every customer.”

McLaren Automotive has also confirmed that customers will be assigned a Personal Liaison Manager (PLM) in the Middle East & Africa region. The PLM will be on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to provide customer care. Each dealer in the region will appoint a dedicated McLaren Automotive brand manager who will be responsible for executing McLaren Automotive projects and initiatives in each country.

The first of two SA dealerships, McLaren Johannesburg forms part of the company’s Middle East and Africa network of an initial eight retailers. South Africa’s initial allocation of 20 cars is already sold out.