Korea Monopoly Corporation
In the autumn of 1985, Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) appointed Komoco Auto Pte Ltd as its distributor for Singapore. Whilst travelling in Seoul, our Chairman, Mr Jopie Ong, saw the billboard of a company called "Korea Monopoly Corporation". He immediately took the acronyms to give birth to the name "Komoco", emphasising that with such a name to baptise ourselves, we would not lose money. As HMC wanted a showroom along Singapore’s automotive belt, we took some time before moving into 249 Alexandra Road as our first premises.
The first shipment
The first shipment of 32 Hyundai Excels arrived in August 1986. And on that first Sunday of sales, we sold out all the cars. After that, the demand for the follow-up Excels was just as impactful. This rapid success not only marked the beginning of Hyundai's strong presence in the Singaporean automotive market but also demonstrated the incredible appeal of these compact and economical vehicles, paving the way for Hyundai's continued growth in the region.. Komoco Auto sells its first car – a Hyundai Excel GL hatchback on 29 Aug, registered SBC 5710.
World Distributor of the Year
Subsequently, we brought in the Hyundai Stella, selling 4,000 cars in 1988 to earn our first major award from HMC -- the World Distributor of the Year 1988. This achievement was a testament to our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. The Hyundai Stella quickly gained popularity among Singaporean consumers, thanks to its reliability and innovative features. As we continued to introduce Hyundai's latest models and maintain our dedication to quality service, our partnership with HMC flourished, solidifying our position as a trusted distributor in the global automotive arena. This award was just the beginning of a long and successful journey in the world of automotive excellence.
Came the best of America
Then came the best of America, when CJAS was launched in 1996 to fill yet another gap in Singapore's growing auto marketplace – with Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge cars. This strategic move not only expanded the company's product offerings but also introduced a new level of performance, style, and reliability to the local automotive scene. As a result, CJAS quickly gained a reputation for delivering iconic American vehicles that resonated with Singaporean car enthusiasts. Enterprise 50: Komoco in top 50 of Economic Development Board’s award. This significant achievement reflected the company's dedication to excellence and innovation, further solidifying its position as a leading player in the automotive industry.
New four-storey building opens
Komoco Motors celebrated its grand inauguration in Singapore with style and elegance. The event marked a momentous occasion as the city welcomed this prestigious automotive establishment. Distinguished guests and enthusiasts gathered to witness the unveiling of a new era in automotive excellence. Komoco Motors commitment to quality and innovation shone brightly, promising a thrilling future for car enthusiasts in Singapore and beyond.
The majority shareholder in HR Owen Plc
The group’s first overseas fray was in 1990 when it started Astre Investments Pte Ltd, a joint venture with Cycle & Carriage operating under the banner of Hyundai Automotive Distributors Australia Pte Ltd until 1999. The office was headquartered in Sydney at Silverwater Road and then moved to Homebush Bay in 1997. In 1995, a record of 60,000 cars were retailed in Australia and in 1997, the same number was achieved.-Rosbaha Abdullah wins gold medal in 3rd Hyundai World Skills Olympics
Heady years of expansion
MBSA Automotive was established in Malaysia in 2003, dealing in Mercedes-Benz in Malacca, with its full-facility building in downtown Jalan Bendahara. This strategic location allowed us to serve our customers in Malacca and the surrounding areas efficiently. Over the years, our commitment to offering premium Mercedes-Benz vehicles coupled with top-notch customer service has earned us a reputation for excellence in the Malaysian automotive market. Our state-of-the-art facility in Jalan Bendahara reflects our dedication to providing a premium experience to Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and owners in the region, making us a trusted choice for luxury automotive needs.-Asian Distributor Of The Year, awarded by HMC.
ComfortDelGro's Sonata Partnership
ComfortDelGro has sealed a monumental deal with Hyundai Motor Company and Komoco Motors Pte Ltd, acquiring 12,000 Sonata vehicles directly from Hyundai's Korean factory. This strategic partnership reinforces ComfortDelGro's commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles. The Sonata, known for its excellence and innovation, promises a bright future for Singaporean commuters seeking style and reliability on the roads.-Tan Ming Fong wins bronze medal in 7th Hyundai World Skills Olympics.
Ital Auto established
By the time Komoco Holdings had well consolidated itself as a reputable entity, the establishment of Ital Auto in 2008 was a consequent leap into the upper crust of distributorship, into the sphere of supercars, the world of Ferrari. This strategic move propelled the company into an elite realm, solidifying its position as a distinguished distributor.-Asia-Pacific Distributor Of The Year, awarded by HMC.
30th Anniversary Joy
The '30th Anniversary Joy' by Komoco Motors marks three decades of excellence and passion in the automotive industry. This iconic event celebrates not only Komoco's enduring presence in the market but also their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. During this special anniversary, Komoco Motors takes pride in offering car enthusiasts a unique experience, highlighting the technological advancements and cutting-edge features that have characterized the brand over the years. Commemorating their legacy of quality and performance, the '30th Anniversary Joy' is a tribute to Komoco Motors' vision and ongoing efforts to provide exceptional vehicles that inspire excitement and joy on every journey.
One more in the family
The official opening of Tridente Automobili, the exclusive importer for Maserati in Singapore, marks a significant milestone in the luxury automotive landscape. With a grand ceremony, Tridente Automobili welcomes enthusiasts and connoisseurs to experience the Italian excellence and craftsmanship that define Maserati. This new chapter promises a world-class platform for Maserati's iconic vehicles, offering a gateway to timeless style, performance, and sophistication in the heart of Singapore.-Ferrari Singapore celebrates its 70th anniversary.
Best-selling brands in Singapore
Hyundai has secured its position as the fourth best-selling automotive brand in Singapore, according to the latest data from LTA (Land Transport Authority). This achievement reflects Hyundai's growing popularity and trust among Singaporean consumers. With a diverse range of reliable and innovative vehicles, Hyundai continues to make significant strides in the Singaporean automotive market, offering quality and value that resonate with a broad spectrum of customers.-Komoco Motors launched an industry-first omni-channel online car retail platform in Singapore.-Ital Auto won Singapore Regional Dealer of the Year 2018.
Celebrates its 10th year anniversary
Ital Auto is celebrating its 10th year anniversary of stewardship of the Ferrari Singapore's dealership with a decade marked by consistently elevating the Ferrari experience for enthusiasts across Singapore through their dedication to excellence in sales and service. Their position as a trusted partner for Ferrari aficionados is solidified, and looking forward, Ital Auto remains committed to pushing boundaries and introducing innovative features to enhance the Ferrari ownership journey. This milestone not only reflects their success but also their unwavering passion for the iconic Italian brand, and here's to another decade of driving dreams and embodying the spirit of Ferrari in Singapore!