With lockdowns and fear of the coronavirus keeping customers out of dealership showrooms, a number of automakers are turning to online sales.
While many of these programs have been around for years, they have been largely overlooked by consumers.
However, not all automakers have a robust online sales program and they’re scrambling to come with a solution. FCA clearly falls into the latter category as they’re turning to Google Hangouts in a desperate attempt to sell cars online.
Noting the “extraordinarily difficult moment,” FCA announced customers will be able to request an appointment to talk to a sales consultant. They’ll then get a link that will connect them to a salesperson via Hangouts Meet.
While the solution isn’t exactly high tech, FCA says customers can speak to specially trained sales consultant who can help them configure a new vehicle from the comfort of their home. They can also get a quote, see financing options and conduct sales negotiations without ever stepping foot inside a showroom.
Unsurprisingly, the program has some limitations and the biggest is transactions “will subsequently need to be completed in person as soon as circumstances allow and in accordance with government directives.” That kind of defeats the entire point of online sales during a pandemic, but at least you’ll minimize your exposure.
The service is launching in hard hit Italy, but will be expanded to other countries in the future. FCA will also be promoting the service via a digital campaign called “Parked at home, but always on the move!” The automaker says it highlights the “importance of rigorously observing the requirement to stay at home, while remaining proactive and looking optimistically to the future.”
