Amazon and Flipkart Drive the Future of Online Automobile Shopping

No more waiting in showrooms or negotiating with salespeople! Buying a car or a two-wheeler is getting much more accessible. Just like ordering groceries or a new phone online, now you can buy a car with a few clicks.

Amazon and Flipkart, big names in e-commerce, are leading this change. They're using their massive online platforms to transform online automobile shopping.

In this blog, we will learn how Amazon and Flipkart are adapting to cater to automobile shoppers and how they are shaping the future of this industry.

The Rise of Online Automobile Shopping

In the past, buying a car meant visiting many dealerships, test-driving various models, negotiating prices, and handling paperwork.

However, nowadays, many people prefer the convenience of shopping for vehicles online. While they still value human interaction and seeing the vehicle in person, customers can skip other hassles.  

Customers can easily browse many car options, compare prices and features, and schedule test drives. They can even complete the buying process without leaving their homes.

According to a report, 25% of buyers now look to buy cars online, up from 18% in 2021. E-commerce giants like Amazon and Flipkart are changing the vehicle-buying experience.

They offer a vast selection, including motorcycles, cars, and SUVs. These can be purchased from the comfort of one's home.Furthermore, technological advancements have made the process even easier. Virtual showrooms, AI-powered recommendations, and online financing options ease the transition to online automobile shopping.

Benefits of Purchasing Vehicles Online

Today, many are opting to buy vehicles online because of the ease of doing so. But what's driving this trend, and what are the benefits? Let's find out.

• Convenience: Online vehicle shopping lets you browse from home. This saves time and avoids the hassle of visiting multiple dealerships. 

• Extensive Options: Online platforms offer a wide range of vehicles, increasing the chance of finding the perfect match for your needs.

• Transparent Pricing: Clear breakdowns of costs help compare prices. You can make informed decisions with tools to estimate payments.

• Streamlined Process: Completing transactions online reduces effort. It also allows users to easily submit documents and schedule test drives.

• Access to Information: Detailed descriptions, photos, and reviews help research vehicles without sales pressure.

• Flexibility: Shop at your own pace from anywhere, with the convenience of internet access.

• Better Financing Options: Online applications provide quick visibility into loan eligibility and allow applicants to apply to multiple agencies.

• Customer Service at Your Fingertips: Request assistance like virtual tours or video calls for personalised help.

As we see the benefits of buying vehicles online, it's probable that automobile purchases will happen on the Internet in the future. However, a blend of digital and in-person options might still be available.

Amazon’s Move in Automobile E-commerce

Amazon is changing how we buy cars by letting dealers sell them on its website. This fits with Amazon's goal of giving customers an easy shopping experience like they have for commodities.

Amazon started with Hyundai cars but now also has Jeep and Nissan. By the end of 2024, more car brands will join. This was announced at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show. It showcased a significant change in how people buy cars, making it simpler and faster with Amazon.

The company has strategically introduced several initiatives to shake up traditional car buying and selling methods.

Amazon Vehicles Platform

Amazon now offers a platform called Amazon Vehicles Showroom. Users can check out different cars, compare prices and features, read reviews, and see photos and specs. Although users can't buy cars directly there, it will be a helpful resource for online car shopping.

Expansion into Automotive Parts

Amazon has started selling automobile parts and accessories on its leading site. Users can find car batteries, tyres, oil, car care items, and other automobile parts. They can get them quickly with Amazon's fast shipping and good customer service.

Dealer Partnership

Amazon's latest move allows dealerships to list on its platform using dealer stock. Amazon provides a place for dealers to showcase what they have. Dealers can control prices and deal with customers beyond buying and picking up.

Flipkart’s Move in Automobile E-commerce

Flipkart is making a significant change by getting into selling vehicles online, moving away from its usual retail offering.

Flipkart wants to capitalise on the increasing popularity of online vehicle shopping. It plans to use its well-known brand name and digital setup to make buying vehicles online smooth for customers.

An essential move by Flipkart in this area is its partnership with various vehicle dealerships. This partnership means Flipkart can offer a wide selection of vehicles, from motorcycles to scooters, all in one place. Customers can quickly check out different models, features, and prices.

Flipkart works with brands like Odyssey, VIDA, and BGauss electric scooters. This helps people nationwide buy bikes and scooters without any hassle. They can even book them before they're officially available and get launch offers.

Flipkart aims to be a top player in online automobile shopping. It wants to give customers more convenience, choices, and transparency when buying a vehicle.

6 Emerging Trends in Online Automobile Shopping

Here's how Amazon and Flipkart are driving the future of online automobile shopping:

1. Streamlining the Vehicle-Buying Experience

Both Amazon and Flipkart are simplifying the vehicle-buying journey by offering user-friendly online platforms. These platforms enable customers to browse, compare easily, and purchase vehicles.

They include features like virtual showrooms, detailed vehicle descriptions, and interactive customisation tools. These make buyers' experiences simple, convenient, and even quick.

2. Convenient Delivery Options

Amazon and Flipkart provide flexible delivery services. They are offering customers the choice between home delivery and dealership pickup options.

This strategic decision aligns with both companies' dedication to providing a comprehensive and customer-centric solution. This will ensure buyers have the flexibility to receive their purchased vehicles at their preferred location.

3. Hands-Free Alexa Experience

Amazon plans to integrate a hands-free Alexa experience into Hyundai cars by 2025. This innovative feature will offer drivers more than just entertainment. It can enable them to manage Amazon smart home devices while on the road.

This reflects Amazon's commitment to combining the e-commerce automotive industry and smart home technologies to enhance the driving experience.

4. Focus on Electric Vehicles

With the growing interest in sustainable transportation, Flipkart is focusing on promoting and selling electric vehicles (EVs). To educate and attract environmentally conscious consumers, Flipkart offers detailed information on EVs, including charging infrastructure and maintenance tips.

5. Financing and Insurance

Amazon and Flipkart simplify the financing process by partnering with financial institutions and insurance companies. Buyers can complete all necessary paperwork online.

They are streamlining the purchase journey, eliminating the need to visit multiple institutions or handle complex paperwork.

6. Market Expansion

Online platforms remove geographical barriers. It allows consumers in remote areas to access a wide range of vehicles.

This type of market benefits both buyers and sellers. Furthermore, Amazon and Flipkart often offer exclusive deals and discounts. This makes buying vehicles more affordable for a broader audience.

How Amazon and Flipkart Are Adapting to Cater to Automobile Shoppers

Amazon and Flipkart are continuously evolving to meet the needs of automobile shoppers. Here’s how they are adapting:

• Expanding Inventory: Both platforms are broadening their vehicle selection to include two-wheelers, four-wheelers, and electric vehicles (EVs).

• Enhanced Functionalities: They use advanced search and filter functionalities. It allows customers to find vehicles based on brand, model, price range, and specific features.

• Collaborations: Flipkart and Amazon are forming strategic partnerships with automakers and local dealerships to ensure a smooth supply chain and prompt vehicle delivery.

• After-Sales Services: Both e-commerce giants focus on after-sales services, such as maintenance packages, extended warranties, and roadside assistance. This ensures a complete customer experience.

• User-Friendly Interfaces: Both employ intuitive and user-friendly interfaces on their websites, facilitating easy navigation and a straightforward purchasing process.

• 360-degree Views and Videos: Amazon and Flipkart use high-quality images, 360-degree views, and videos. They aim to provide a thorough visual understanding of the vehicle's exterior and interior.

• AI-Powered Assistance: Amazon and Flipkart are gradually integrating artificial intelligence chatbots to assist customers. These bots can answer queries, provide recommendations, and guide customers through the buying process.

• Online Booking and Test Drives: They both allow customers to book test drives online, allowing buyers to experience the vehicle firsthand before purchasing.

These adaptations by Amazon and Flipkart ensure an efficient and enjoyable automobile shopping experience online.

Summing Up

Amazon and Flipkart are setting new standards for online vehicle purchases. As this trend continues gaining momentum, more e-commerce automotive industries and dealerships will likely explore opportunities in this sector.

They will aim to expand their brand reach and tap into the growing market for online automobile shopping.

If you’re looking to grow your automobile brand, get in touch with our team at GrowthJockey. GrowthJockey stands ready to assist with its expertise in AI, machine learning, and data analytics technologies.

FAQs

1. Can we purchase vehicles directly from Amazon's website?

Amazon allows dealerships to list their vehicles on its platform. Purchases are typically made through authorised dealerships. However, Amazon offers extensive information, including vehicle specs, pricing, and reviews, to help decision-making.

2. What are the benefits of purchasing vehicles online?

The benefits include convenience, extensive options, and transparent pricing. It also offers flexibility, better financing options, and customer service.

3. Are exclusive deals and discounts available for online vehicle purchases on Amazon and Flipkart?

Yes, Amazon and Flipkart often offer exclusive deals and discounts on vehicle purchases. These special offers make buying vehicles more affordable for a broader audience.