Amazon has officially launched its car-buying program, allowing customers to purchase vehicles through its platform. Although the program is not yet as seamless as buying other products on Amazon, it marks a significant step towards changing the traditional car-buying experience.
The current selection of new vehicles is limited to Hyundai models, including the Santa Fe, Tucson, and Ioniq. However, the selection of used cars is wider, with certified pre-owned inventory from other brands and fleet vehicles available. The process of buying a car on Amazon involves searching for a vehicle, viewing real-time inventory from local dealerships, and completing the purchasing process, including financing and deposit, directly through the platform. Once the digital paperwork is complete, customers can schedule a pickup or delivery of their vehicle.
There are some limitations to the program, including the fact that customers are still buying from a local dealership, not directly from Amazon. Additionally, the paperwork is not yet 100% digital, and customers may need to sign a “wet” signature when taking possession of the vehicle. The program also has limited participation from dealerships, with varying availability depending on the location. For example, in the Boston area, the closest participating dealership is 17 miles away.
The impact of Amazon’s car-buying program is significant, as it forces dealers to display transparent pricing and cuts out the haggling process. While it may not be the revolution that was promised, it is a step towards making the car-buying experience more convenient and customer-friendly. For now, it is a good option for those looking to buy a Hyundai without spending hours at a dealership. As the program continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it expands and improves, potentially changing the way people buy cars in the future.
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