The CaPTA Group has launched a new business, incorporating the North Queensland dealership for Yutong, the largest coach manufacturer in the world.

ABC Sales & Maintenance was launched 20 March 2015 and specialising as the authorised dealer of new and used Yutong coaches north of Mackay, and also offering repair and maintenance services to all brands of coaches.

CaPTA Chairman Charles Woodward said the launch of the new dealership was a complete game changer for coach operators in the region.

“Yutong is rapidly building a very good reputation in coach manufacturing by offering European quality and standards at an affordable Chinese price,” he said.

“We’re looking at retail prices for coaches on par with what they were 20 years ago, which for us has already had a positive impact on the operating costs for our own coach company, Tropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters,” he said.

Since embarking on the dealership in October, Tropic Wings Cairns Tours & Charters has added 10 new Yutong vehicles to its fleet, with several other local operators also purchasing vehicles.

ABC Sales & Maintenance General Manager Barry Henderson said he had completed an accredited course in China to qualify in selling the vehicles and ensuring they are serviced and maintained to the highest level.

“The sheer size of the main Yutong factory in Zhengzhou is incredible – we’re talking over 44,000 employees working in two factories which would cover the entire CBD of Cairns,” he said