Porsche to import cars through R.I

Porsche to import cars through R.I    Porsche Cars North America said it has begun importing its cars through the Port of Davisville in North Kingstown, R.I., instead of Baltimore.
   The first shipment arrived in Davisville earlier this week. The firm expects to import about 11,000 cars per year, bound for Northeast dealerships.
   Porsche said it made the move to better streamline its shipping operations with VW Transport, which already uses the Port of Davisville to bring in Volkswagen and Audi brand cars. Additionally, the move will allow Porsche to save money in federal harbor taxes and other operational costs. Last year Porsche and VW agreed to merge, a deal that is to be completed next year.
   “From an efficiency standpoint, (Davisville) is perhaps one of the best so-called roll-on/roll-off ports in the industry, and it exclusively handles automobile shipments,' said Justin Newell, manager of vehicle logistics for Porsche.
   He also had high praise for Porsche's processing partner in Davisville, North Atlantic Distribution, for its facilities, equipment and processes.
   For trucking, Porsche will retain the same company it used in Baltimore, Accurate Auto Carriers.
   Porsche imports 20,000 to 26,000 cars annually. Other ports it utilizes include Houston, San Diego and Brunswick, Ga.