Automakers are moving their sales to the online sphere, with the latest example coming from Porsche; the company launched online car sales in the U.S. for the first time as part of a joint pilot project that includes 25 participating dealers.
The program ensures consumers can shop online — including through mobile devices, and even complete paperwork on-screen to simplify and shorten the overall car-buying process. Once the order is submitted, consumers will need to visit the dealership in-person for a final signature and to pick up the car.
“For our dealerships, who are at the core of our strategic initiatives, we think this blend of digital and physical interaction with customers will only strengthen their business,” said Klaus Zellmer, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
The program offers new and used vehicles, with the new process integrated into participating dealer websites. Car buyers can upload photos of their IDs or personal documents online and car pictures for trade-in valuation.
The pilot launched with 25 of the 191 independently owned and operated U.S. Porsche dealers taking part in the program. If the results are favourable, the automaker will look at the option of a wider national rollout. A similar plan is launching in Germany.
No news yet on what the automaker is planning for the Canadian market, where it recently launched its subscription model known as Porsche Passport in Toronto, Ont.
