Jim Pattison Auto Group opens Audi Edmonton North

With 25 dealerships in Western Canada, it was inevitable that the Pattison Group would open one in Alberta. On Aug. 28, the group did it when group founder Jimmy Pattison cut the ribbon to proclaim Audi Edmonton North officially open for business.

“We wanted to seize this opportunity,” Pattison told the Edmonton Journal. “Audi is a very high-quality company. And this is a special opportunity. We are positive about the future here.”

While the province’s economy is in recession, group president Bill Harbottle waxed optimistic.

“The luxury market is growing. We feel there is tremendous potential for Audi in this market.”

The 37,000-square-foot, two-storey dealership is the first in Edmonton to feature the automaker’s terminal-style building. A glass curtain wall resembling a giant windshield with high-tech, folded aluminum oneycomb panels above the windows give a 3D look to the exterior.

A curving wall defines the showroom creating the look and feeling of a speedway racetrack, making it look like the cars on display are ready to zoom out of the showroom.

Audi design standards carry over to the 16-bay service department, where the floor is covered with a special ceramic tile designed to withstand the rigours of the service department workday.

Harbottle says the group is looking to expand in the province.

Audi Edmonton North will face competition from Southgate Audi.

With files from the Edmonton Journal