ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - The evening of July 10 marked a milestone for Drive Family First, a family-oriented auto sales company, as it celebrated the grand opening of Mazda and Nissan of Elk Grove under new ownership on Laguna Grove Drive.

The event highlighted the realization of the Martinez-Motoyoshi family’s decades-long pursuit of the American Dream, fueled by hard work, perseverance and a commitment to community.

Owner and President Robert Martinez shared that the milestone was 27 years in the making. Martinez began his career in the automotive industry in 1997, where he met his wife, Shelly Motoyoshi. Their children have also taken an interest in the business and now work in the same field.

Pictured is Robert Martinez with wife, Shelly Motoyoshi, at the ribbon-cutting event at the Nissan and Mazda of Elk Grove dealerships on July 10. Photos courtesy of Drive Family First

According to its website, Drive Family First aims to create a place where every person feels supported, whether it’s purchasing a car, visiting a service center or seeking collision repairs.

With both Hispanic and Japanese roots, the family’s diverse heritage has shaped the values that drive their operations: hard work, respect and service. Martinez emphasized that these values extend beyond business and into the customer experience, aiming to build trust with its customers and give back to the community.

Martinez told the Elk Grove Citizen that he envisions Drive Family First being more than just a car brand: It’s also a place where the community feels welcome.

“We’re hoping that it’s bigger than just a brand, meaning bigger than Nissan or Mazda,” said Martinez. “I want people to know that when they come into the store that they feel like they’re part of the family.”

 

The evening of July 10 marked a milestone for Drive Family First, a family-oriented auto sales company, as it celebrated the grand opening of Mazda and Nissan of Elk Grove under new ownership on Laguna Grove Drive. 

The company supports children’s causes through committing to donating a set amount of money each year to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Shriners Children’s Hospital. Martinez said giving back to veterans is equally important, as a way of honoring those who have fought for the freedoms that the families and children who live in this country have.

“It’s a chance to help provide those that weren’t born with the best conditions and give them an opportunity to better their circumstances, mindset and come out of a situation having the resources to have a better life,” Martinez said.

Before the ribbon cutting, Martinez reflected on his family’s modest background, stating that having support and working hard has led him to creating Drive Family First.

“My wife and I come from humble beginnings. Our family who worked the fields in the Central Valley and has no shame in doing it, just working extremely hard,” said Martinez. “Their work ethic, with my aspirations and my wife’s belief that we could get this done, is probably the reason why we are standing here today.”

 

Drive Family First owner and President Robert Martinez gave a speech, alongside Chief Executive Officer Bob Giles, on July 10 reflecting on family values and work ethic.

Chief Executive Officer Bob Giles echoed the importance of family in his own journey.

“I know that I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for all the sacrifices my family has made along the way so I could reach for my dreams that I had,” said Giles. “So to have this opportunity to partner with Rob and help him realize his dream is what’s most important to me.”

Martinez ended his speech by restating the goal of continuing to better an already great business and acknowledged those who have and continue assisting in providing quality service.

“We’re just working to make a great dealership better and it’s wonderful to have so many wonderful resources, great facilities and great people,” he said. “Everyone buckle up, because Drive Family First is here to stay.”