[dropcap size=small]I[/dropcap]tal Auto has confirmed on Wednesday that it will be taking over the marque from incumbent dealer Hong Seh Motors from May 18, according to The Straits Times. Ital Auto, part of multi-franchise Komoco group, also represents Hyundai, Chrysler and Harley-Davidson, aside from Ferrari.

The Maserati Ghibli.

According to Komoco group managing director Teo Hock Seng, the previous dealer resigned in November 2016.
“The principal has appointed us,” Teo told The Straits Times.

“We are renovating a workshop on the fourth floor (of its Alexandra Road complex), and that’s where Maserati cars will be serviced,” he said, adding that the Maserati showroom will be next to its Ferrari showroom.

He also said that the company was now in the process of ordering cars. Hong Seh Motors has sent out letters informing customers that it was exiting the market because of tough conditions. It has represented Maserati since 1999, after taking over the brand from Comfort Group, one of the predecessors of transport giant ComfortDelGro Corp.

In 2009, the company relinquished its Ferrari franchise – which it had held since 1982. Ferrari was also taken over by Ital Auto. Hong Seh executive director Edward Tan said the family-owned company will now shift its focus to luxury yachts, navy craft and aeroplanes. It will participate in the next aerospace show here.

As for automobiles, Hong Seh will retain its car rental arm. Maserati has not responded to email queries. The manufacturer is part of the Ferrari group. Last year, 63 Maserati cars were registered here, down from 75 in 2015.

This  story originally appeared on Torque.