Auto Solutions has broken ground on a new two-storey showroom that will bring its Hyundai, Suzuki and Honda brands together under one roof.

The 12,000-square-foot facility is expected to take about 14 months to complete and will have space to display up to 21 vehicles.

Glen Smith, the managing director of Auto Solutions, said the development is a major investment in Bermuda’s automotive industry.

The parking lot the company has used at its St John’s Road premises will be transformed into a “stunning” facility, he said during the groundbreaking ceremony.

Mr Smith said with the showroom, the company hopes to change how customers explore vehicles and their options.

“Technology and AI will play a huge role in this space, with interactive digital screens allowing customers to view the models, different colours [and] customised features in real time,” he said.

He added that, as the company’s physical footprint grew, its team would grow alongside it, creating new local jobs.

Scott Lines, chairman of Auto Solutions, said the board had debated whether to make such a large reinvestment in the business and Bermuda’s motor industry.

“I personally felt it was very important to demonstrate that we are highly committed to this business, and we are willing to put our money where our mouth is in terms of capital,” he said.

Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, praised Auto Solutions for offering apprenticeships and for investing in a new approach to vehicle sales.

Drawing on his background in education, he said the company was “at the fore” of creating a place where “locals [are] interacting with other locals who are looking to purchase vehicles”.

Auto Solutions is working with local firm CTX on the showroom’s design and Greymane as the general contractor, alongside a range of Bermudian subcontractors.