Online Vehicle Sales Shift

The automotive retail landscape is rapidly evolving, with a growing number of consumers favouring online vehicle sales. According to recent research by iVendi, 74% of buyers plan to use digital methods for their next vehicle purchase. This significant trend presents an opportunity for retailers to adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

The Rise of Online Sales

iVendi’s research reveals a clear consumer shift towards online vehicle sales, though physical showrooms still play a crucial role. In today’s omnichannel environment, consumers are equally split between online and showroom experiences, with 39% preferring each method and 22% considering them equal.

Looking ahead, consumers are showing a strong preference for conducting more of the sales process online. When asked about their next vehicle purchase, 45% of respondents indicated they would buy online and collect the vehicle from a showroom, while 29% preferred buying online with home delivery. Only 25% still favor purchasing at a physical dealership.

Adapting to Consumer Preferences

Many consumers are already considering buying vehicles entirely online. Our survey found that 59% had contemplated this option, influenced mainly by friends and family (61%), good reviews (31%), and online-specific incentives such as advertising for online-only brands, avoiding human contact, and favourable return policies.

Age also plays a role in these preferences. Older consumers (34% of over 45s) tend to prefer showroom purchases, compared to 23% of 31-44 year-olds and 21% of those under 30. Interestingly, the preference for fully digital purchases with home delivery was consistent across all age groups at around 27-28%.

The ‘click and collect’ method—buying online and picking up from the retailer—is gaining popularity, especially among younger buyers. It is favored by 51% of respondents under 30, 47% of 31-44-year-olds, and 37% of over 45s. Female respondents also showed a strong preference for this method, with 47% expecting to use it for their next vehicle purchase.

Dealer Auto IT: Your Partner in Digital Transformation

As the automotive retail sector continues to shift towards digital, Dealer Auto IT is here to support your transition. Our advanced e-commerce solutions are designed to meet the evolving needs of both consumers and dealerships. By integrating with leading platforms like iVendi, we provide seamless, flexible, and scalable solutions that ensure your dealership stays ahead of the curve.

Key Benefits of Dealer Auto IT:

1. Flexibility: Adapt to changing consumer preferences with ease, offering both online and showroom experiences.
2. Scalability: Grow your digital operations without compromising performance or user experience.
3. Enhanced User Experience: Provide a seamless, intuitive shopping journey that keeps customers engaged and satisfied.
4. Real-Time Market Insights: Leverage data analytics to make informed business decisions and stay competitive.

Conclusion

The future of vehicle retail is digital, and Dealer Auto IT is committed to helping your dealership thrive in this new era. Embrace the shift towards online sales with our cutting-edge e-commerce solutions and stay ahead of market trends.