The Uptok Blog

Automotive Industry Going Digital and Beyond

July 18, 2022

The technological transformation of the entire automotive industry does not only extend to the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) and dashboard digitalization; it also focuses on the new world of digital retailing. Every type of product, from groceries to evening gowns, is now available through ecommerce platforms and for delivery straight to your door. Cars, light trucks, and SUVs have joined the online shopping world in a big way. Now, emerging tech like virtual reality, video contact platforms, and digital twin customization pages, are something consumers expect from the car buying experience.

Traditional Dealerships Become Obsolete, Increase in Car Sales Prospecting 

As technology shifts, the demand from buyers for the ability to complete a car purchase online has increased. This is due to the convenience of being able to compare prices and research different models from the comfort of your own home. In addition, there is no need to haggle with a car salesman when you can negotiate pricing and terms directly with the dealership online.

Digital marketing has played a significant role in this shift towards online car buying. Dealerships that do not have a strong online presence are finding it harder and harder to compete. Car dealers like Carvana are now using digital marketing tools such as search engine optimization, pay-per-click advertising, and social media marketing to reach potential buyers; basically anything to help increase car sales prospecting. While most still have physical locations with shining showrooms and vast lots full of the latest models, they focus more on the final sales step rather than the entire process.

The days of going to a physical car dealership are quickly becoming obsolete. Customers these days want the convenience of learning everything from the comfort of their home before they head down for the negotiations and final purchase, and companies need to find creative ways to sell more cars.

 

Electric Vehicles Lead the Digital Transformation

The increase of electric car sales, trucks, and SUVs has contributed to the change in how people shop for new vehicles. Consumers who look forward to new tech options in smarter car design also tend to be more open to the idea of going digital in the automotive industry.

Online retailers now offer shoppers the ability to customize their own electric cars using 3D models. They can choose their favorite model, features, and paint color with a few clicks of the mouse or taps on the screen. This gives customers more control combined with an amazing amount of convenience and efficiency in the buying process.

These transformative upgrades are quickly infiltrating all parts of the automotive industry. In order for any company to remain profitable, it needs to give its target market what it wants. Today, people expect to go to a car manufacturer’s or auto retailer’s website and get an in-depth experience when exploring the options their preferred model offers.

Car Shoppers Expect Accessible and Convenient Customer Service

The design of the new car models, the rise of electronic vehicles, and the ability to customize cars on a website before heading to sales location are all part of the digital transformation taking place in the automotive world. However, they are not the only things consumers want these days. Across all industries, ecommerce and the convenience it brings has changed expectations. Consumers also want to know more about the corporations they give their money to. It all comes down to forging stronger relationships and providing high-tech solutions that make it easy to shop for a new car, light truck, or SUV on the internet.

Customer service before and after a sale matters a lot to the overall success of a car company. New tech options allow them to offer video chat and consultations that give shoppers a feeling of value and consideration that it is impossible to get through an email or a phone call. These virtual face-to-face conversations work better when the team uses a platform like Uptok that allows them to share vehicle information and customization options right on the screen. Auto dealership technology solutions must focus on consumer expectations and give them the most personal and comfortable interactions possible.

The digital transformation of the automotive industry extends far beyond integrating the latest attack or finding new ways for electric vehicles to go the distance. Global circumstances and consumer expectations have disrupted the entire process of buying a vehicle. By using options like 3D modeling, virtual customization, and video consultation tech, car companies can move forward into a profitable future.