WE’VE heard of how cars are going to become autonomous soon, and who doesn’t know that our future cars will likely be electric powered?
But an interesting change to the automotive industry seems to be creeping up under the radar.
Last month, Volkswagen Group Malaysia Sdn Bhd teamed up with Lazada to sell 12 limited edition Beetles in conjunction with Lazada’s Online Revolution Campaign, which kicks off from 12 to 14 December.
VW Group Malaysia said it was the first time a car maker is tying up with an e-commerce company to sell cars online in Malaysia.
The 12.12 limited edition Beetle is available in two designs, the “Herbie 53” in Pure White and White Silver and the “Hot Bug” in Tornado Red.
The limited edition Beetles are priced at RM112,112 which is 18% off the recommended retail price.
The offer is only valid in Peninsular Malaysia.
But the two companies aren’t the only ones that are venturing into on-line sales of vehicles apparently, although they may be faster than the rest of the market here.
On Wednesday, Reuters reported that Ford Motor Co is expected to sign a deal with Alibaba Group Holding Ltd to allow the U.S. automaker to sell cars to consumers in China through Alibaba’s online retail arm Tmall.
The deal apparently also involves sales via a new “auto vending machine” store concept, Reuters reported a source as saying.
The move is said to be part of “’Ford’s effort to overhaul its China strategy to revive the growth momentum it has lost in recent months,” the report added.
Online giant Amazon is also believed to be interested in selling cars online.
Last year, it unveiled Amazon Vehicles, which is a hub for prospective car buyers. The American site however currently doesn’t appear to have a buy option yet.
It was also reported by Reuters that Fiat Chrysler teamed up with Amazon to sell cars online, but only in Italy.
Is this the car retail model for the future? Its unlikely that dealers will be happy with the news.
But the unrelenting pace of technology means traditional ways we do things may not last forever.
It may be a matter of time before the next car you buy involves going to a world wide website instead of a showroom.