Hyundai is launching a new digital car buying service, which will allow potential customers to research, specify and purchase a new car online.
The service, created in conjunction with UK-based dealer Rockar, will launch in the UK in November and aims to do away with traditional dealer interactions, such as speaking to salesmen. The online service will be accompanied by a forecourt located at a shopping complex. Hyundai says the integration of both online and real-world elements is a first for the automotive industry.
Customers will be able to test drive vehicles from the site, as well as returning to have their vehicles serviced.
Hyundai isn't the first manufacturer to experiment with digital showrooms. Audi launched its first unit, dubbed Audi City, in London in 2012, and the brand has since said it plans to roll out more sites across the globe. Similarly, the limited First Edition version of Volvo's new XC90 was only available to customers ordering the model online.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
