Eide Motors started selling new Hyundai cars out of its South Washington Street dealership in Grand Forks about three weeks ago.
The change offers local car shoppers another option after Lithia closed its Hyundai dealership south of 32nd Avenue South in Grand Forks late last year.
"We knew this town needed Hyundai," Eide Motors Sales Manager Don Schultz said. "It's a pretty good line. Most of the vehicles get more than 30 miles per gallon, which is good with high gas prices."
Schultz said Eide Motors sold seven new Hyundai vehicles its first week, but is still getting the word out about its new brand. Eide Motors also sells new Suzuki vehicles.
A temporary sign hangs from the dealership letting passing motorists know about the new product line.
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Schultz said the dealership's showroom will be remodeled and a Hyundai emblem will be added to the building.
"It gives us a bigger customer base," Schultz said. "It will give us a broader area of cars to sell."
Eide Motors' service department will also perform Hyundai warranty work, offering Hyundai owners with warranties purchased from Lithia or other dealerships a place to get their cars serviced.
Schultz said those who prefer to buy American products would be happy to know that a significant number of the Hyundai cars on its lot were made at an American factory in Alabama, while the rest were made overseas.
Seoul, South Korea-based Hyundai Motor Co. has more than 780 U.S. auto dealerships.
In an effort to spread the word about selling new Hyundai cars, Eide Motors is offering a promotion, allowing customers who test drive a Hyundai to get a free sundae.
Schuster covers business. Reach him by phone at (701) 780-1107, by e-mail at rschuster@gfherald.com or check out his business blog at www.areavoices .
