In today’s competitive market, reducing costs and improving efficiency is key to vehicle manufacturers achieving profitability. To do so, they maximise the sales of each model range by offering derivatives at various price points and specification levels to increase their appeal and sales potential. This approach enables them to offer products that meet differing customer needs. However, in the 4x4 market, customer requirements are often too diverse, and sometimes too specialised, for this approach to be practical.
Manufacturers cater for common 4x4 customer requirements by presenting a range of approved accessories. Typically, these include items like nudge bars, towbars, tonneau covers, bonnet- and headlamp protectors, load-box liners and rubber mats. Beyond these items, customers can select accessories from a range of aftermarket specialists. Canopies are a good example,