Date:09/02/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/02/09/stories/2007020902410200.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Want a car during those short U.S. stints?

K. Satyamurty

U.S. firm offers a way out for Indians who find it difficult to find finance for a car or even to lease one A U.S. company offers a way out for Indians who find it difficult to find finance for a car or even to lease one

Bangalore: Tens of thousands of young Indians are being sent to work in the U.S. on projects lasting anywhere from six months to three years. Many among them are IT professionals from Bangalore.

Having personal transportation, not necessarily a Cadillac, is as necessary in the U.S. as are fresh air and water. Perhaps more so.

Those from South Asia on work permit visas are at a disadvantage when it comes to finding finance for a car or even to lease one. They are not U.S. citizens and banks do not know their credit history.

A U.S. company, experienced in serving the transportation needs of the overseas international community (now called ex-pats) has stepped into the arena.

"Going through us, the employer company can easily save 30 to 40 per cent in cost, leave alone the time saved,'' says David Goldring of International AutoSource (IAS). It is the consumer business division of the 60-year-old Overseas Military Sales Group (OMSG) that is used to serving the needs of U.S. armed forces personnel posted in around 30 countries. "The logical progression was to meet the needs of ex-pats in the U.S. who badly need a car and have little time for elaborate paperwork. Our long association with automobile manufacturers and dealers is our strength,'' says Mr. Goldberg.