Acura welcomes new vehicles — finally

The damage to the automobile industry caused by the massive earthquake and tsunami that rocked Japan in March created its share of problems for American dealerships, which suddenly discovered a decline in the availability of product.

Availability of new vehicles at Acura of Las Vegas dropped by 90 percent, according to General Manager Tim Donnelly, who added that new product recently returned to the dealership situated at 7000 W. Sahara Ave.

"We received our first truckload of new Acuras Sept. 29," said Donnelly, a 30-year veteran of the car business. "However, it's been a very difficult period considering that we were doing very well prior to the earthquake and tsunami."

Donnelly said the flow of new Acura models has taken the overall availability to about 45, with 50 mores cars in transit, which is more than double what the dealership has had for the past six months.

"I cannot say enough for the people of Japan," said Donnelly. "They make superior Acura vehicles, but even more importantly now is how they have recovered in virtually every way, including the manufacturing of their cars.

"It's always easy when everything is going OK, but when something like this takes place, the real test of people comes to the surface. The Japanese people not only proved that they are talented car builders, but also resilient people at the same time."

Donnelly said recent shipments of Acura models have included the TSX, TL, MDX, RDX and TXS.

"Hooray, we now have cars," said sales consultant Louie Doblado, a 22-year veteran of the Acura brand who has seen the inventory increase steadily in the past two weeks. "No doubt, this has been a real challenge. However, we have cars now and more are headed here in the near future, too."

Doblado said other deliveries are expected throughout the rest of the month with 2012 TSX models set for arrival today.

Acura of Las Vegas General Sales Manager Chris Biehl orchestrated the transactions during the past four months.

"He has been keeping us at the top in sales of our zone; and thank God we had him here," Doblado added. "He has a level of magic and professionalism unmatched in this business."

Acura of Las Vegas is part of the Super Store Auto Group, which has five stores in Southern Nevada and more than 26 in the country.

Further information regarding Acura of Las Vegas can be found by calling 702-367-7000 or visiting www.lasvegasacura.com.