Laem Chabang, Thailand – 20 March 2025 – RMA Special Vehicles (RMA SV) and Kia Special Vehicles Division (Kia SV) have announced a Global Framework Agreement to expand Kia’s presence in the global vehicle modifications market, targeting defense, industrial, medical, and security sectors.
The partnership, signed on 18 March 2025 at RMA’s Laem Chabang facility, aims to combine Kia’s robust vehicle lineup—featuring a comprehensive range of military-ready vehicles and a versatile heavy and medium-duty truck range, with RMA SV’s global network and modification expertise. Together, the companies will deliver tailored solutions for customers worldwide, addressing the unique needs of defense, industrial, medical, and security sectors.
Daren Ambrose, Managing Director of Global Manufacturing & Modifications at RMA Group, said: “Kia has a strong product portfolio, and this partnership allows us to bring their vehicles to new markets. By leveraging RMA’s global reach and modification capabilities, we can help Kia meet the unique needs of defense, medical, industrial and security sectors.”
Ik Tae Kim, Executive Director of Kia Special Vehicles, added: “This collaboration is a strategic step to showcase Kia’s capabilities in the modifications market. With RMA’s expertise, we can deliver innovative, purpose-built vehicles that meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.”
A Partnership Built for Growth
The alliance will focus on pursuing global tender opportunities initially and also showcasing Kia’s vehicles at major industry events, including the DSEI Defense Show London, in September 2025. By combining Kia’s proven platforms with RMA’s modification capabilities, the partnership aims to strengthen Kia’s position in the global modifications market.
About RMA Special Vehicles
RMA Special Vehicles (RMA SV) is a global leader in vehicle modifications, offering both ready-to-go products and bespoke engineered solutions for all specialized industries. With manufacturing facilities in Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Türkiye, Dubai, South Africa, and Australia, RMA SV works closely with partners and customers worldwide to deliver customized mobility solutions tailored to every diverse need.
About Kia Special Vehicles
Kia Special Vehicles (Kia SV) is a global leader in military and commercial vehicle manufacturing, with over 50 years of experience in the automotive sector. As the sole supplier to the Korean Army, Kia SV operates in 38 countries and has produced more than 142,000 military vehicles. Kia’s product range includes the KLTV, KMTV, and various commercial vehicles, offering integrated support services such as spare parts availability and operator training.
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Stuttgart, January 26th, 2025 – RMA Special Vehicles is displaying a 4×4 Transit Conversion at the Caravan Motor Tourism Trade Show 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany (Jan 18–26). As one of the world’s largest tourism and leisure exhibitions, the show offers a prime opportunity to introduce the Transit 4×4 Conversion to automotive bodybuilders, outfitters, and the public. Interest is high among RV modifiers and end-users alike.
Sebastian Robertson (General Manager, Modifications Sales), Martin Laermann (Chief Program Engineer), and Thomas Lermer (MD, Xtremobility) are available throughout the event to answer questions and provide insights into RMA’s engineering expertise and vehicle conversion capabilities.
The collaboration of Siriraj Stroke Center, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Siemens Healthineers, and RMA Automotive
With SOMATOM On.site CT Scanner and teleconsultation system , The MSU-8 Mobile Stroke Unit offers high-quality brain imaging and seamless patient information transfer
The latest Mobile Stroke Unit will serve as a benchmark for stroke management in the region
Bangkok, December 17, 2024 – Siriraj Stroke Center, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, has partnered with Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, Siemens Healthineers, and RMA Automotive to develop the state-of-the-art MSU-8 Mobile Stroke Unit. Designed to enhance the early diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke cases before hospital admission, this initiative aims to significantly reduce patient disability and mortality rates. The MSU-8 is equipped with SOMATOM On.site CT scanner, offering high-quality brain imaging with the precision of a hospital-based system. This portable system is integrated into a specially designed vehicle that accommodates the scanner’s weight and motion dynamics. Additionally, the unit features a reliable teleconsultation system, enabling seamless communication between the on-site medical team and hospital specialists. Beyond serving patients in Thailand, the MSU-8 is poised to set a benchmark for mobile stroke treatment across the Asia-Pacific region, fostering innovation in stroke management.
Associate Professor Yongchai Nilanont, President of Siriraj Stroke Center, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, stated that “Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability in Thailand and the Asia Pacific region. In 2023, according to a report from the Ministry of Public Health, Thailand recorded 349,126 stroke cases, with a 10% mortality rate and 60% disability rate. The critical factors in reducing the risk of paralysis, disability, and death from acute stroke lies in timely treatment. The administration of thrombolytic drugs is effective only within a 4.5-hour window from the onset of symptoms. Recognizing this crucial time frame, Siriraj Stroke Center, in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, and partners from public and private sector, launched the Mobile Stroke Unit, Stroke One Stop (MSU-SOS) project in 2018. This initiative involves the development of mobile stroke treatment vehicles in conjunction with a teleconsultation system for acute stroke care management, enabling access to timely diagnosis and treatment for patients.
Mobile Stroke Units integrate an ambulance equipped with a head CT scanner, along with a medical team specialized in acute stroke care which enables head scans at a designated location for timely diagnosis. The integrated teleconsultation system allows hospital-based specialists to make immediate decisions on thrombolytic therapy. Additionally, contrast media can be administered onboard for vascular assessment, ensuring accurate preliminary diagnosis and treatment. This innovation significantly reduces disability and mortality rates associated with acute strokes.
By recognizing that acute stroke diagnosis and treatment on Mobile Stroke Units can achieve higher efficiency while reduce patient disability and mortality rates through rapid workflow management systems, high-quality and precise medical imaging technology, stable vehicles, and reliable teleconsultation systems, Siriraj Stroke Center and Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University, have collaborated with Siemens Healthineers—a leader in medical imaging technology, and RMA Automotive—an expert in Mobile Stroke Unit production in the region, to develop the “MSU-8” Mobile Stroke Unit. This initiative builds upon ongoing research efforts to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke for patients in Thailand. The aim is to provide “A Life without Stroke”, aligning with the vision of the Siriraj Stroke Center and serving as a prototype for developing Mobile Stroke Units for other hospitals across the region.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Pronchai Chanyagorn, Deputy Dean for Process Quality Development, Faculty of Engineering, Mahidol University added that “Enabling a stable teleconsultation system alongside high-quality, high-performance ambulances is a challenging and critical aspect in the development of Mobile Stroke Units. This ensures the efficient, seamless, and rapid transfer of patient information, diagnostic results, and pre-treatment evaluations between the medical team on the Mobile Stroke Unit and experts at the hospital.”
Mr. Chris Poray, Managing Director, Siemens Healthineers Thailand further informed that “Siemens Healthineers, as a global leader in medical technology with over 120 years of expertise in medical imaging technology development for hospitals and medical centers worldwide, has recognized the critical urgency of acute stroke management. We have collaborated in the development of the MSU-8 Mobile Stroke Unit. The SOMATOM On.site CT Scanner, a mobile CT scanner with advanced technology that delivers high quality and reliable brain CT imaging CT comparable to hospital-based CT scanner systems, is installed in the latest MSU-8 for acute stroke diagnosis and treatment.
SOMATOM On.site is a 32-slice CT scanner designed for usage in acute mobile settings. It aids emergency teams with precise diagnostic capabilities and targeted treatment, ensures both high-resolution non-contrast and contrast-enhanced CT imaging comparable to hospital-based CT scanner systems. Moreover, the AI-Powered Interface simplifies operational workflow, enabling operators to confidently use the machine while reducing errors with GO Technology. Automated Image Processing features like Recon&GO provide timely automated 3D imaging, image enhancements, and specialized parameter adjustments for faster decision-making. The system also includes automatic image transfers to the PACS, streamlining workflows and ensuring images are ready for immediate diagnosis. In terms of Radiation Safety, the first-of-its-kind telescopic gantry is designed to accommodate stroke patients by extending and retracting over a stationary trolley, allowing scanning without patient transfer. This innovative design minimizes scatter radiation for both patients and nearby personnel, ensuring safety in pre-hospital environments. Additionally, enhanced radiation shields at both the front and rear further reduce radiation exposure, providing an added layer of protection for all involved.
“The collaboration aims to develop CT scanners dedicated for use in Mobile Stroke Units—an innovative solution addressing the urgent need for timely diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke patients. This partnership also provides an excellent opportunity for experts from all parties to exchange knowledge and expertise. The Siriraj Stroke Center offers in-depth insights into practical applications and clinical requirements, while Siemens Healthineers brings advanced technology and innovation to optimize CT scanners for this purpose. This collaboration not only enhances the efficiency of stroke treatment but also drives and broadens significant advancements pre-hospital care of acute stroke management in Thailand and worldwide. It aligns with our purpose to overcome the most threatening disease and pioneering breakthroughs in healthcare. For everyone. Everywhere. Sustainably.”
Mr. Stanley Chan Wai Zhong, General Manager, Group Product Development, RMA Automotive Co.,Ltd., stated that “RMA Automotive is a global leader in the automotive industry, specializing in fleet management, automotive manufacturing, and engineering consulting. With over 30 years of experience, RMA has earned a reputation as a trusted partner for automotive brands, equipment suppliers, and agencies. The company is also a renowned designer and manufacturer of ambulances, supporting various government and non-governmental organizations worldwide. RMA operates automotive manufacturing & modification plants in Thailand, Turkey, Dubai, South Africa and Australia, as well as vehicle assembly in Myanmar, Cambodia and Australia. Additionally, our subsidiary, Global Fleet Sales (GFS) provides fleet vehicles, heavy equipment, and agricultural vehicles to sectors such as aid & development, defense, and government, with options for base or modified vehicles and full logistics, aftersales support, and parts supply. Another subsidiary, Ford Global Fleet Sales (FGFS), is Ford’s direct sales partner and provides comprehensive fleet solutions across over 100 markets, leveraging Ford’s full product lineup to serve private companies and humanitarian organizations worldwide.
The development of the MSU-8 focused on designing a vehicle capable of supporting a heavy CT scanner, ensuring the structure and attachment points could withstand the weight and stresses involved. To achieve this, RMA used advanced engineering analysis, including Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to simulate the forces acting on the vehicle under compression standards (FMVSS 220). The design also adheres to international safety standards, including the BS EN 1789 standard for emergency medical vehicles, as well as local regulations from Thailand’s Emergency Medical Institute (EMS) and the Excise Department’s 2018 Royal Gazette announcement. The result is a high-performance Mobile Stroke Unit that meets the rigorous requirements for patient care in emergency situations. Through this project, RMA Automotive has further advanced its engineering capabilities and automotive technology, positioning itself as a leader in mobile medical solutions in Thailand and beyond.
For more information about the MSU-8 Mobile Stroke Unit and updates from the Siriraj Stroke Center, visit https://www.sirirajstrokecenter.org/ or call 02 414 1010.
Bangkok, Thailand, 7 August 2024 – Ford Thailand proudly announces its sponsorship of the Feeliq Innovation Motorsport team, sending two Ford Ranger Raptors to race at the Asia Cross Country Rally 2024. Enlisting seasoned racers, Ford is showcasing the vehicle’s positioning ‘You Can’t Fake Tough’ and Ford Performance DNA as they compete for victory on the challenging route from Surat Thani to Kanchanaburi during August 12-17, 2024.
This year, Ford and Feeliq Innovation Motorsport have collaboratively developed two Ford Ranger Raptor race vehicles, numbered #118 and #131, to race in the same T2A or Production Asia class, designated for Asian factory-produced vehicles. The racing team is spearheaded by Michael Freeman, a seasoned circuit racing team director, and Chaiya Chommalee, an accomplished rally navigator. The duo, who previously competed together last year, will be at the helm of the Ford Ranger Raptor #118 for this event.
The team also unveils another race car, Ford Ranger Raptor #131, driven by rally ace Wuttichai Sorndaeng, the Royal Cup champion known for his seasoned skills. The racer partners with navigator Charin Harnsungnoen, who brings over three decades of engineering capability and racing experience to the cockpit, forming a formidable duo for the challenging course ahead.
“This year, we come with determination and experiences from last year,” said Michael Freeman. “We are confident that the performance of the two Ford Ranger Raptors and the performance of these two skilled racers will enable Ford and Feeliq Innovation Motorsport team to excellently conquer this year’s challenging route.”
The Ranger Raptor race vehicles have been developed to be tougher than ever, focusing on improving traction control, durability, and responsiveness to rugged terrains. The racing team and engineers from Ford’s plants in Thailand have synergized their outstanding expertise in the development process, in which the knowledge and skill from Ford Performance team have been also transferred. The race team also boosts up its readiness in spare parts and maintenance with professional technicians teams and Ford’s Mobile Service Vehicle to provide timely services and ensure that both race vehicles overcome all challenging terrains throughout the racecourse.
“Entering the Asia Cross Country Rally 2024 for the second year with two Ford Ranger Raptors demonstrates our commitment to developing motorsport potential and our confidence in the performance of Ford’s tough pickup trucks,” said Ratthakarn Jutasen, managing director, Ford Thailand. “Moreover, this is a great opportunity for us to showcase the superior durability and high performance of Ford Ranger Raptor to Ford customers, fans of rally and off-road competitions.”
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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and
always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough electric vehicles along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 175,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.
Paris, June 17th, 2024 – Today marks the opening day of Eurosatory 2024, Europe’s largest defense and security event. RMA Special Vehicles team are ready to showcase its latest mobility solutions for the Defense and Security sector.
Eurosatory presents an array of innovative products and system with a gathering of more than 2,000 exhibitors and a huge contingent of country delegations and visitors.
Our RMA Special Vehicles sales team is on hand to share the latest offerings with visitors to the stand. The display vehicles are a light tactical vehicle pick-up and a 4×4 conversion van which are both tried and tested in the toughest terrain.
The Light Tactical Vehicle is built on a Peugeot Landtrek 1-ton pick-up, designed specifically for defense and security operations. It features a front protection bar with an integrated high-beam spotlight and replica convoy lights, a canopy, utility boxes on rails and integrated tyre inflation system. The vehicle has been engineered with RMA SV Blackout function which at a turn of a switch on the center console eliminates all light and sound sources while allowing other essential vehicle electronics such as power windows and central locking to function normally.
The RMA SV 4×4 Van Conversion has been perfected on the Ford Transit Van and can be adapted by RMA SV engineers to any van make and model. Its superior off-road capability, makes for safe transportation of personnel, goods and equipment. The 4×4 conversion is complemented by a heavy duty suspension and brake upgrade and a raised body with all-terrain tyres. The 4×4 Van can be configured as a field ambulance, personnel carrier or as a surveillance vehicle to name a few.
About RMA Special Vehicles
In a groundbreaking display of innovation and commitment to fostering peace and stability worldwide, RMA Special Vehicles is at the forefront of developing innovative mobility solutions tailored for military applications. With a focus on enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and effectiveness, RMA Special Vehicles leverages cutting-edge technology and in-depth industry knowledge to deliver unparalleled mobility solutions integrating innovative power and propulsion development.
Tiel, Netherlands, March 29th, 2024 – RMA Special Vehicles is thrilled to announce the official signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Defenture B.V. headquartered in the Netherlands, to provide and develop cutting-edge mobility solutions tailored for the defense sector.
Defenture is an innovation-driven company that designs, develops, assembles and maintains unique light tactical vehicles. These vehicles provide security and mobility solutions to military, law enforcement and other specialist operators carrying out demanding missions in challenging environments around the world.
This is another milestone and opportunity for RMA Special Vehicles to contribute and support to the defense sector. This initiative also symbolizes a significant leap towards integrating our advanced propulsion systems and enhancing the efficiency, agility and durability of light tactical vehicles operating in diverse terrains and environments.
Through this partnership, RMA Special Vehicles and Defenture will contribute significantly the defense industry by combining our expertise in modified mobility solutions and propulsion technologies with our legacy of engineering excellence and commitment to innovation.
Alan Caugant – Managing Director RMA Special Vehicles stated “The signing of this MoU is a clear indicator that the future of defense mobility is not just about evolving; it’s about revolutionizing the way defense operations are conceptualized and executed for securing peace and stability worldwide.”
RMA Special Vehicles is committed to continue delivering outstanding cutting-edge mobility solutions to defense sectors and customers worldwide.
For more information about RMA Special Vehicles follow us on:
In a groundbreaking display of innovation and commitment to fostering peace and stability worldwide, RMA Special Vehicles is at the forefront of developing innovative mobility solutions tailored for military applications. With a focus on enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and effectiveness, RMA Special Vehicles leverages cutting-edge technology and in-depth industry knowledge to deliver unparalleled mobility solutions integrating innovative power and propulsion development.
Bangkok, March 15th, 2024 – RMA Special Vehicles, a leader in innovative mobility solutions, is proud to announce its participation in Eurosatory – the world’s largest international defense and security event that sets to take place from June 17th to June 21st, 2024 in Paris.
This event marks a significant milestone for RMA Special Vehicles as it presents its latest advancements in mobility technology designed to enhance military operations and capabilities.
“The Eurosatory event is renowned for bringing together the world’s leading defense and security companies, a platform that aligns perfectly with our vision of transforming mobility in defense through innovation, sustainability and technology,” said Mark Tennant, Director of Business Development Modifications.
With a long-standing commitment to pioneering the future of defense mobility solutions, RMA Special Vehicles, a Member of RMA Group will unveil a series of cutting-edge products and technologies which have been developed from our top-tier global manufacturing facilities and in a close collaboration with different OEMs and defense experts to meet the rigorous demands of this sector.
“Our team of experts are eager to demonstrate how our solutions can significantly contribute to the effectiveness, safety, and efficiency of military operations.”
“We invite all attendees to visit us in Hall 5B, booth A423 to explore our pioneering solutions and discuss how we can support the advancement of global defense and security together,” added Mark Tennant, Director of Business Development Modifications.
For more information about RMA Special Vehicles and its participation in the Eurosatory 2024, please visit www.rmaspecialvehicles.com or follow us on.
In a groundbreaking display of innovation and commitment to fostering peace and stability worldwide, RMA Special Vehicles is at the forefront of developing innovative mobility solutions tailored for military applications. With a focus on enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and effectiveness, RMA Special Vehicles leverages cutting-edge technology and in-depth industry knowledge to deliver unparalleled mobility solutions integrating innovative power and propulsion development.
Kuala Lumpur, March 12th, 2024 – RMA Special Vehicles has been appointed as the Official Stellantis Modifier and Converter for all Stellantis vehicles in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Middle East & African (MEA) markets, the company announced recently.
In other words, the company will be the one able to customise everyday vehicles into fit-for-purpose uses, such as this Peugeot Landtrek now being a Mobile Service Vehicle.
Presumably, this partnership will benefit for fleet buyers, who are then able to purchase these modified vehicles from the outset – without having to buy the base car first, then customising it later.
If extended to private owners, it will also mean that the cost of conversion can be added into financing, plus the work done (as the brand’s official customiser) won’t affect the vehicle warranty. More will of course be clearer when the CKD Peugeot Landtrek launches in Malaysia later this year.
RMA has been a major player in the special vehicles industry for over 30 years, and is present in over 14 countries globally. Their vehicles span from armoured trucks, ambulances, cash-in-transit vans, and even left- to right-hand drive conversions for cars like the Ford F-150 for the Australian market.
South Africa, November 15, 2023 – Special Vehicles Manufacturer, RMA Automotive South Africa (RMAA SA), proudly marked its 15-year anniversary this week. Since its inception in 2008, the company has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and innovation, shaping the future of mobility through advanced engineering and strategic partnerships. Commemorating the anniversary with the theme, ‘Beyond the 15 – The Future of Mobility Reimagined’, captures the essence of its forward-looking approach in modifying vehicles for export markets, commercial fleet customers, aid organizations, and government agencies.
Embedding Strategic Expertise in South Africa for Africa
RMAA SA stands at the forefront of automotive innovation as a distinguished vehicle modifier, showcasing its expertise in transforming a diverse range of vehicles. From internal combustion engines to advanced technologies like battery-electric vehicles, the specialized vehicles have engineered technologies for delivering power and propulsion solutions to OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and a multitude of fleet customers.
The business has renewed its determination and purpose to become an innovative company leading in mobility solutions, and a global player with a balanced footprint across Africa.
“Over the past 15 years in South Africa, we’ve evolved, adapted, and grown. We’ve overcome challenges, embraced change, and seized opportunities. Our success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of every individual who has been a part of this remarkable journey. It is the result of the unwavering support of our clients and partners, and the trust and loyalty of our customers,” said Brendan Londt, Country Manager at RMAA SA.
“Throughout the years, RMAA SA has always strived to be at the forefront of technology, safety, and agility to meet our customers’ requirements and offering them solutions to meet their needs. And now our ambition is to expand our footprint into Africa; not only will we be contributing to the economic development in new markets but more importantly, we will be providing customers across Africa the same excellent service and products in a timeous and cost-effective manner that our South African customers can attest to,” he added.
This 15-year celebratory event marked a legacy of service of how the company has been pushing the boundaries when it comes to innovative mobility solutions. Attendees at the media breakfast also had the opportunity to inspect RMA Special Vehicles’ capabilities and to see first-hand what the future of mobility entails through unmatched innovation, proven performance, and breakthrough life-cycle economics.
Alan Caugant, RMA Automotive Managing Director Global Manufacturing announced the company’s vision for the future and said: “we are making new commitments to develop in three fundamental areas, namely, vehicle personalization, special vehicles solutions and, development and manufacturing competence to ensure that we achieve our financial ambition of doubling our net revenues by 2030 (over 2022) and sustaining a double-digit adjusted operating income margin throughout the decade.”
An impressive strategic development in Africa markets
Representing RMA Group headquartered in Thailand, Christian Wiedmann, RMA Group Senior Vice President and Managing Director Automotive emphasised that the importance of South Africa in the company’s strategy cannot be overstated. “South Africa’s strategic location on the African continent is and will always be a compelling reason for our strong presence here, he said.”
Wiedmann concluded by addressing the talent skills in the continent, saying, “the talent pool in Africa is vast, diverse, and eager to participate in the global economy. By investing in education, skills development, and fostering innovation, the company will not only uplift the lives of individuals but also enhance the organization’s competitiveness on a global scale.”
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About RMA Automotive
RMA Automotive is an innovative company leading in mobility solutions, and a global player with a balanced footprint across the globe.
RMA Special Vehicles core competencies are the special vehicle modification solutions, complex conversions, large scale vehicle personalization and CKD assembly.
RMA Special Vehicles are produced at RMA Automotive’s global manufacturing plants in Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Türkiye, Dubai, South Africa, and Australia.
Headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, RMA Group employs over 8,000 people and has an operational presence in 14 countries. RMA is the partner of choice for leading automotive, equipment, services, and food brands in Southeast Asia and beyond. Operations consist of the manufacturing of special vehicles, vehicle distribution, retail, and fleet hub services; RMA heavy and agricultural equipment distribution, EFG food franchising and delivery services, engineering, and financial services.
