Amazon Autos: What We Think
Late last year, Amazon launched Amazon Autos. This enabled amazon customers in the US to buy a car on the site. Hyundai are the Launch Partner, but they aim to add a broader selection over time.
Amazon are acting as a middleman between the customer and the dealer. Simplifying the process of selecting, specifying, financing and arranging delivery of a car. A role that Amazon plays best in many other categories.
The Hyundai Brand Store is really slick, full of videos and interactive modules which make it easy to find and customise your choice. Take a look here.
Amazon has not over played their role. They have stuck to what they are good at. The dealer is still where you go to test drive and pick up the car, but amazon has removed all the faff and salesmanship saving the customer time and hassle from the comfort of their home. Whlist they've had to step outside their usual template, it still feels like an Amazon experience.Amazon are also providing a service to independent dealerships that can't afford to develop this functionality. It also gives them valuable connection to a customer base.
Of course, they need to sell a broad selection of vehicles, otherwise you would just go to the brand website, but if they can do this and provide cross-brand comparison, we could see how amazon could disrupt the category and carry this concept into other markets.
Whilst you wait to see how the new service unfolds. We urge you to have a play around with the site. We particularly enjoyed the Amazon Auto launch video.
