Hyundai launches hi-tech car buying

Hyundai has launched a nationwide program called Shopper Assurance, which it says is designed to streamline and modernize car buying.

The launch comes after research indicated the majority of car buyers are frustrated with the automotive retail experience.

Shopper Assurance is designed to tackle four ‘pain points’ for customers.

The first is pricing. The new service will offer transparent pricing, with all incentives and discounts disclosed upfront.

Secondly, flexible test drives will be offered, which are booked via an online platform that allows the vehicle to be dropped off at any location convenient for the driver.

Thirdly, Hyundai dealers will allow car buyers to complete most of the paperwork online prior to visiting the dealership for a vehicle in the dealer’s inventory.

This includes applying for financing, obtaining credit approvals, calculating payment estimates and valuing trade-ins.

Finally, there is a three day buy-back guarantee to return the car for a full refund, contingent upon a dealer inspection and the vehicle having few than 300 miles since the lease/purchase date.

Dean Evans, chief marketing officer, Hyundai Motor America, said: “We expect this to be a differentiator, as our research showed that 84% of people would visit a dealership that offered all four features over one that did not. It is the future of car buying and our commitment to creating a flexible, efficient and better way to purchase a car in partnership with our dealer body.”

Shopper Assurance is available for any new Hyundai and will initially launch in dealerships in four markets (Miami, Orlando, Dallas and Houston) and will be live nationwide by early 2018.