European luxury car firm considers Port Manatee

PALMETTO — A European luxury car manufacturer is considering Port Manatee for its first U.S.-based facility.

The firm, Spain-based A.D. Tramontana, is also looking at locations throughout Manatee, Sarasota and Broward counties, according to a Port Manatee release today. “I'm very encouraged that A.D. Tramontana is considering building their first U.S. facility in Manatee County,” Port Manatee Executive Director Carlos Buqueras says in a statement. “As the largest foreign investor in Florida, Spain remains a high priority for our region to attract new business.”

A.D. Tramontana manufactures highly customized cars with Formula 1 racer parts and a design reminiscent of a jet fighter, the release states. The cars are currently only sold in Europe and Asia, and each vehicle costs more than $500,000.

Buqueras met with A.D. Tramontana executives, including CEO Albert Foncillas, during an international trade mission at the Port in April, when the firm first expressed an interest in Florida. Buqueras, while touting the region, says Port Manatee's foreign trade zone offers A.D. Tramontana the ability to defer, reduce or eliminate duties on goods. The trade zone can also minimize U.S. Customs requirements.

Foncillas and some other A.D. Tramontana executives plan to return to the Sarasota-Bradenton region next month to continue expansion discussions, the release states.