Fellow Motorist, Guest Drive: Eric Hong, business owner, Jeep Chee

Mr Hong, 57, oversees one of Singapore’s most successful workshops specialising in exhaust systems. 

How long have you been a motorist in Singapore?

I’ve been motoring for 37 years.

When did you get your driving licence? 

38 years ago when I was 19 years old. 

Remember your first car? 

It was a Mitsubishi Colt, the four-speed power shift manual.

What were your most memorable past rides? 

Porsche 911, Mitsubishi Evo IX, Honda’s EK4 Civic and FD Civic.

How many exhaust systems has Jeep Chee fitted to cars since it started?

Roughly 45,000, most of them are systems from Tanabe and Supersprint. 

What is your workshop’s business focus these days?

Suspension, exhaust, engine repair, and motor service such as oil change. 

How would electric cars change the aftermarket sector in Singapore?

In my view as a business owner, electric cars will have a big impact on workshops, especially those with mechanics who did not have English education. There will be no more exhaust to modify, whether legal or not, but some electric-car owners might upgrade their suspension and wheels, or install a brake kit.  

How does the new Volkswagen Caddy compare to your company’s old Caddy workhorse?

It’s a very easy and much smoother drive with its turbo-diesel engine, auto gearbox and better torque. There is also more space in the cabin and cargo area. The driver’s seat is more comfortable and gives better views, with less blind-spots. I also like the fully digital air-con, no more knobs to turn. The handling is much better now. The new Caddy is much nicer to drive than my old one. 

Jeep Chee's inexhaustible Caddy van (right) with the new, improved version (left).

Read More: Fellow Motorist: Derrick Lui, movie director, Oversteer

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