Singapore - “If you build it, they will come.” The slight variation to that familiar line from the Field of Dreams movie hits all the right spots when you consider NB Auto’s latest SpeedyMews car-storage sanctuary, a full-service car-hotel concierge facility that takes advantage of its sprawling 100,000 sq ft space at 14 Benoi Crescent.
It is not easy being a car enthusiast in land-scarce Singapore. The high price of cars is one thing while storage space is another issue, not to mention having to put someone on your payroll to maintain, check and prep the cars whenever you want to go for a drive. Do not forget the clean-up before and after the drive either.
Mind you, this is even before you start to factor in climate conditions, security and even bonded area status if you are thinking of purchasing a car for investment purposes sans taxes and duties, which form the largest component in a car’s sticker price here.
Needless to say, only the collectible or fun cars are worth jumping through these many hoops to own one. New entrant SpeedyMews now offers a full-service car concierge / storage eco-system that spans trading between members, as well as transport and secure storage, with even a bonded area to cater to duty-unpaid collectibles or unregistered race cars. Rates start from $6,000/year for the top-tier Platinum membership for a single-bay in a non-bonded area.
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The SpeedyMews lounge area is designed as a hangout place for folks who might even want to pull their cars out of storage to serve as a stunning backdrop for a drinks or dining session with their friends. Security within the storage facility is 24/7 and strictly enforced even for clients with cars in storage, so you cannot wander in to check out what else is “in the back”.
With the exception of the ultra-exclusive Wearnes Automotive tower facility and Ital Auto’s bonded area for Ferrari sportscars/racecars, we cannot think of another company offering a similar service that owners of multi-make garages can utilise freely.
The other thing SpeedyMews has going for it is its proximity to the Second Link, which is great for folks headed up in Malaysia for early morning breakfast drives or a session at the Sepang International Circuit.
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What is even more compelling is the fact that the folks behind NB Auto are dyed-in-the-wool petrolheads themselves — passionate car collectors (of both modern cars, as well as classic collectibles) who envisioned the need for such a one-stop service in Singapore because they needed such a facility for their own cars.
Incidentally, NB Auto is also the authorised dealer for two eclectic British sportscar brands: BAC (it is Authorised Dealer for the Formula-inspired sportscar brand for Singapore and Malaysia) and Morgan Motor Cars (for Singapore).
This means a visit to its showroom is quite a treat for the petrolhead because you can check out more esoteric cars than the sort you would typically spot along the Leng Kee car belt.
NB Auto’s Douglas Ng tells us more about the SpeedyMews business
Q: Do you expect any synergy between SpeedyMews and the rest of your automotive business?
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A: SpeedyMews is a separate business segment from our authorised dealership business for BAC and Morgan. It offers complementary services for car owners who wish to tap on NB Auto’s expertise in securely storing their cars (be it in bonded or non-bonded areas for registered vehicles) or transporting them.
Q: What made you decide to establish such a car storage/concierge business?
A: We identified a gap in the market, especially with the recent uptick in demand from owners looking for proper storage and service for their cars. SpeedyMews is a melting pot for all brands of cars — there is no brand discrimination.
A team of full-time specialists runs this car hotel professionally (from customer service relations officer to on-site maintenance staff). The facility is fully climate-controlled with 24/7 security. Ultimately, we aim to create a cosy ambience where enthusiasts and owners can participate in regular events to enhance the local car culture.
We have also developed the Speedy App, which serves as a digital concierge for owners to access the details and maintenance schedules of their cars remotely. Additionally, the Shell fuel card is digitally linked to our Speedy App, which allows NB Auto customers to enjoy up to a 27% nett discount across all Shell fuel types.
PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY NB Auto
