When it comes to diplomatic vehicle sales in the Netherlands, Louwman Group stands out, offering diplomats not just cars, but a unique experience rooted in exceptional service and high-quality vehicles from Lexus and Toyota. Mr. van Elk, the representative from the group to the Diplomatic Community, shared some insightful details about what makes their program special for international clients.
A Century of Diplomatic Service and Hospitality
Louwman Group, with its 100-year history in The Hague, has long-standing ties with the diplomatic community. This connection is not just about car sales, but about building relationships and offering personal service that goes beyond the standard dealership experience.
Mr. van Elk explained, “We firmly believe in personal contact, and I regularly speak with new arrivals to the Netherlands, helping them navigate both car-related and everyday aspects of their new life.”
Central to Louwman’s approach is the concept of Omotenashi, which comes from Lexus and represents the epitome of Japanese hospitality. This philosophy anticipates customer needs before they arise. For diplomats, this translates into practical services like a personal mechanic, complimentary pickup and return, and a personalized experience that starts from the first interaction and continues throughout ownership. “We train our staff to exceed expectations and make every international guest feel at home,” said Mr. van Elk.
One-Stop Shop for Diplomatic Clients
One of the major advantages for diplomats working with Louwman Group is their all-inclusive approach. The dealership handles everything related to the purchase, from financing and trade-ins to insurance and maintenance. “Our clients have just one contact for everything, removing the burden of navigating different systems in a new country,” Mr. van Elk emphasized. This seamless experience is especially beneficial for diplomats and expats who are unfamiliar with the local market.
Built in Japan: A Financial Advantage
A standout feature of the Toyota and Lexus models offered by Louwman is that most of these cars are built in Japan, a rarity in today’s globalized car industry. This uncompromising approach to quality offers diplomats an extra financial advantage thanks to trade agreements between Japan and the EU. Diplomatic buyers are exempt from the 3% import duty typically integrated into consumer prices. “We arranged over a decade ago to deduct this percentage from the net price for diplomats, which is quite unique,” said Mr. van Elk. Louwman handles the entire process, ensuring that it adds no significant time to vehicle delivery.
Popular Models Among Diplomats
Among the diplomatic community, two models stand out: the Toyota RAV4 and the Lexus NX-series, both mid-size SUVs that have become extremely popular. These vehicles are available in petrol, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options, with Toyota’s two-decade lead in hybrid technology offering a clear advantage. The reliability and environmental benefits of these models make them top choices for diplomats.
Another model gaining attention is the Lexus ES 300 hybrid, which is becoming a preferred choice as an official embassy vehicle. “The space in the back seats, the comfort, and the refined hybrid drive train have made this model a hidden gem for embassies,” shared Mr. van Elk. Though Lexus may be an unconventional choice for some, those who experience the ES 300 hybrid quickly realize its value as an official diplomatic vehicle.
Louwman Group’s Diplomatic Sales program not only offers excellent vehicle choices but also provides diplomats with a superior level of service that reflects both the company’s heritage and its commitment to international clients. With personalized service, financial advantages, and a range of popular models, Louwman Group continues to be a trusted partner for the diplomatic community in the Netherlands.
