Dallhum Prepares to Acquire AutoMax's Direct Car Import Licenses After Collapse

Dallhum, an Israeli car importer, is preparing to purchase the direct car import licenses previously held by AutoMax, which collapsed last year. AutoMax initially operated as an indirect importer, sourcing vehicles through foreign dealers, but later shifted to direct importation similar to companies like Delek Automotive, Calmobile, and Carasso Group. AutoMax's direct import portfolio mainly included Chinese brands such as JAC, Junyao, and YUDO.

Following AutoMax's collapse, owners of these vehicles have faced difficulties obtaining routine maintenance and spare parts, leading to a significant drop in their cars' value due to the absence of an official importer. Attempts by other importers, such as Makhsherei Tnuah (importers of Changan and Suzuki), to acquire the JAC import license directly from the manufacturer were blocked by the courts.

Documents sent to AutoMax's creditors by the company's trustees, attorney Ronen Matri and CPA Yizhar Kane, reveal that Dallhum plans to take over AutoMax's direct import operations. As part of its financial rehabilitation plan, Dallhum would acquire these licenses free of past debts and insolvency proceedings. Dallhum previously partnered with AutoMax in a bus import venture and currently imports brands like Arcfox and BAIC, which are sold in retail chains such as Rami Levy.

Given the history of multiple failed attempts to successfully market JAC vehicles in Israel, it is likely that JAC cars, once imported by AutoMax and before that by the now-defunct IV Motors from Netanya, will soon appear in Rami Levy stores alongside BAIC models.