David Pieris Automobiles delivers first set of BAIC X55 SUVs in Sri Lanka

DPG Group Chairman and Managing Director Rohana Dissanayake (left) handing over the key and documents to one of the first customers, Rohan Fernando. DPA Director Dhanika de Silva and Assistant General Manager – Sales and Marketing Thamali Samarathunge are also present

DPA Director Mahesh Gunathilake handing over a replica of the vehicle to one of the first customers, Rohan Fernando. Director Dhanika de Silva is also present

David Pieris Ranna manufacturing complex

David Pieris Automobiles Ltd. (DPA), a subsidiary of the David Pieris Group (DPG), Sri Lanka’s largest automotive group, successfully delivered the first set of BAIC X55 SUVs to its customers. 

At an intimate and personalised gathering held at the BAIC showroom in Battaramulla, excited customers accepted their very own BAIC X55 SUVs, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Group. 

Earlier this year, DPA announced its strategic partnership with Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co., Ltd. (BAIC), a Fortune 500 company, and accepted pre-bookings for the BAIC X55, promising a new era of innovative, quality products and unparalleled customer service for Sri Lankan motorists. True to its promise despite many challenges, the company imported and has now commenced delivery of this futuristic model with local value addition, which was conducted under the Standard Operating Procedure for the Automobile Manufacturing and Assembling Industry and Automobile Component Manufacturing Industry in Sri Lanka as introduced by the Industries Ministry. 

Handing over the very first BAIC X55 to the customer, DPG Group Chairman and Managing Director Rohana Dissanayake stated: “Today marks a significant milestone in the history of the DPG. As a Group that takes pride in our credibility, we are indeed proud to deliver the first set of brand-new BAIC X55 SUVs to our customers. The DPG has always stayed ahead of its time, led change, and paved the way for industry growth. As such, today, driven by our promise of giving our customers a brand-new vehicle that is sleek, futuristic, and packed with a plethora of state-of-the-art innovative, next-generation features, we have delivered just that with pride. While today marks the delivery of the first set of vehicles, we will continue to deliver all the pre-booked vehicles in batches, ensuring that our customers receive what they were promised.”

DPA offers two versions of the BAIC X55: the Honour, which comes with standard features, and the Luxury, which includes a full range of options. 

DPA Director Mahesh Gunathilake emphasised the global recognition of the BAIC X55 SUV, stating: “It is with great pleasure and a sense of satisfaction that we deliver the first set of BAIC X55 SUVs to our customers here in Sri Lanka. Amidst the vehicle ban in the country, true to our promise, we have given our customers the brand new, latest model, which is not only popular in Asia but is also available and accepted in European countries.” 

In addition, Gunathilake further stated: “Backed by the DPG, we have also got our BAIC service centre at Hyde Park Corner in operation, ensuring we give our customers unparalleled after-sales service and technical expertise, as well as spare parts availability. With these facilities, customers will now be able to enjoy the experience they truly deserve.”

“Interested customers can place their bookings or opt for a test drive by contacting DPA at 011 4 700 678 or visit our BAIC showroom situated at Pannipitiya Road, Battaramulla,” Gunathilake added.

The brand-new BAIC X55 SUV, imported, locally value-added, and marketed by DPA, is a five-seater vehicle featuring a 1,500CC turbocharged gasoline engine with a 7DCT transmission. Noteworthy features include 19” alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, auto pop-up door handles, and dual exhausts, contributing to its appealing design. Safety remains a priority with six airbags (including side airbags with side air curtains) and an anti-theft alarm.

The standard features category includes drive features such as keyless entry with one button touch with an electronic shifter and adaptive cruise control. LED headlights, LED daylight, and automatic headlights make this a smart vehicle. All vehicles have dual-zone automatic air conditioning and a centre console cool box, which adds to the glamour of the vehicle.

Aligning with the requirements of the modern driver, the entertainment features include a 10-inch central control screen and an LCD instrument screen. All models also come with a wireless phone connection, WiFi, and wireless charging.

DPA assures customers of comprehensive after-sales support, including technical assistance and spare parts availability. The company has also set up a state-of-the-art service facility at Hyde Park Corner to enhance customer convenience.