Automobile Companies To Use Online Platforms To Attract Customers

Publish On: 28 Apr, 2020 11:48 AM | Updated   |   Madhurima  

NEW DELHI: Numerous automobile companies have launched new online platforms to yet again attract customers. The move is anticipated to drive sales going forward as customers won't be inclined to use the standard sales channels because of Covid-19 outbreak.

Premium automobile manufacturer Honda Cars India announced its ‘Honda from Home' online booking platform through its corporate website.

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"With this digital solution, backed by the robust sales process of the dealership, customers can manage their car purchase from the comfort of their homes without having to go to the dealership," the corporate said during a statement.

"The platform allows customers to flick through the model options, select their preferred dealership and proceed to book their car online. Created in such a way so that the booking process is simplified, the website will offer round-the-clock access from any location, this digital booking platform will soon integrate HCIL's pan-India dealerships."

As per the procedure, customers can visit Honda Cars India's website and opt for the "Book Now" option.

After the customer information is validated, they will select the car model of their choice alongside its variant and colour.

"Customers can then select their city and dealership where they shall make the purchase. After verifying the data summary page, the customer can proceed to the payment gateway, choose a payment option and book online," the statement said.

"A booking confirmation ID is generated which is given to the customer via SMS/email and therefore the selected dealer receives the customer details including booking ID. consequent stage involves a sales executive - from the chosen HCIL dealership - who will contact the customer to figure out further documentation and discuss finance or payment options. Once the formalities regarding documentation and payment are done, the car is going to be home-delivered to the customer at a later date."

On its part, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India said it's digitising sales and repair portfolio.

"The online retail process is straightforward, hassle-free and provides an end-to-end contactless experience. As soon as the customer begins displaying interest, to a conversation with the sales consultant up till the process of handing over the process, it's all going to be conducted virtually."

The company has integrated its 137 sales and 116 service touchpoints in this process.

Speaking about the said initiative, Steffen Knapp, who is the Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars India said: "At Volkswagen, digitalisation has been the core principle of our strategies. With the launch of our simple, secure and user-friendly online retail platform, we are pushing the boundaries of end-to-end retail sales and strengthening our commitment to customers."

Besides, BMW India has enabled its contactless experience in India.

The company had introduced the BMW Contactless Experience in early April to enable customers to explore and buy new and pre-owned BMW cars.

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"Amidst the present pandemic situation, we've successfully transformed our business processes and put in situ various measures to effectively and efficiently serve our existing customers and prospects by leveraging new-age digital technologies," said Arlindo Teixeira, Acting President, BMW Group India.