Axios still in demand despite thefts

Despite the Toyota Axio motor car being a major target for thieves, President of the Jamaica Used Car Dealers Association, Lynvalle Hamilton, is not concerned about a potential decrease in demand for the model.

Hamilton told THE WEEKEND STAR that although these reports of theft may lead to a decline for a short period, demand will rise again.

"There might be a slight decrease but it is nothing much to cause great concern," Hamilton said, adding that Toyota Axios are still among the top five cars sold by dealers worldwide.

"It's fuel efficient and persons want to know that when they purchase a car, parts are easily accessible and they very reliable," he said.

Head of the St Mary Police Division, Superintendent Bobette Morgan-Simpson, noted that after lawmen discovered a massive car-stealing operation in the parish, approximately 35 dismantled vehicles, predominantly Axios, were discovered in the Rocky Hill area. Hamilton said the Axio has been targeted for some time.

"I do believe that the reason why it's targeted is because the parts are very easily accessible, but it is a car that is in high demand," he said. "They may steal for parts, they may use it to do activities that are unlawful.",

"Some cars are targeted more than others, but it seems this one is targeted more than to the other sedans," he added.

Hamilton noted that many Toyota parts are interchangeable, which is also attractive to thieves.

"So you might have parts that may fit the Corolla, they fit the Yaris, and they share parts except for the major body parts," Hamilton said. - K.J.