
In a groundbreaking move that’s set to revolutionize the car buying experience, Hyundai has announced a game-changing partnership with none other than the e-commerce titan, Amazon.
Starting in 2024, customers in the U.S. will be able to bypass the traditional dealership hassle and purchase new Hyundai vehicles directly through Amazon’s platform.
This trailblazing initiative makes Hyundai the first automotive brand to venture into this innovative sales domain.
During the recent Los Angeles Auto Show, Hyundai’s COO, José Muñoz, emphasized the driving force behind this bold move.
Customers, he noted, are frustrated with the conventional car-buying process and crave the convenience they experience when shopping for other products on Amazon.
Hyundai’s answer to this consumer demand?
Bring the car dealership to your digital doorstep!
Imagine logging onto Amazon, searching for your dream Hyundai by model, color, and features, and then wrapping up your purchase with your preferred payment and financing options.
That’s precisely the level of simplicity and customization Hyundai and Amazon are aiming to deliver.
But wait, there’s more!
From 2025, Hyundai vehicles will come equipped with Amazon’s Alexa technology, further integrating the worlds of automotive and tech innovation.
This partnership is more than just a sales strategy; it’s a leap into the future of automotive technology and customer experience.
This initiative isn’t just a fleeting response to the pandemic-induced shift in consumer behavior.
Instead, it’s a proactive approach to the evolving landscape of car sales, where online showrooms and virtual tours became the norm during lockdowns.
Hyundai’s strategy initially involves 15 to 20 dealers, with plans to expand rapidly.
Muñoz confidently anticipates a boost in car sales, fueled by this digital foray.
Amazon, too, is set to escalate its automotive offerings on the platform, eyeing an expansion of car brand options by the end of next year.
The e-commerce giant recognizes the shifting consumer preference for online car buying, especially among EV enthusiasts.
Studies have shown that EV buyers are more inclined to complete their purchases online, and those who do report higher satisfaction.
The direct-to-consumer sales approach, pioneered by Tesla and adopted by Rivian and Lucid, has proven successful in bypassing traditional dealership models.
Hyundai and Amazon’s collaboration offers dealers a new avenue to reach customers more effectively, meeting them right where they are – online.
This partnership is more than just a convenience for customers; it’s a wake-up call for the automotive industry.
With giants like Ford Motor already rethinking their sales strategies for EVs, the industry is recognizing the need to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and expectations.
In essence, Hyundai and Amazon are not just selling cars; they’re offering a whole new way to experience car buying – one that’s convenient, personalized, and aligned with the digital age.