In a major move that has shaken up the automotive industry, Amazon has revealed plans to allow customers to browse and purchase new cars through its e-commerce platform starting next year. Hyundai will be the first automaker to offer a virtual showroom on Amazon, where potential buyers can explore different models, compare features, and even click to buy. The vehicles can be delivered by a local dealer or picked up in person.
This collaboration between Amazon and Hyundai marks a significant shift in the way cars are sold. While Amazon has already experimented with virtual showrooms in partnership with other manufacturers, this new venture takes it a step further by allowing customers to complete their purchase entirely within the Amazon platform. According to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, the partnership with Hyundai is driven by a shared commitment to improving customer experiences and making their lives easier.
Beyond car sales, this partnership also extends to the digital realm. Hyundai has chosen Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its preferred cloud provider, signaling its intention to embrace a more digital-first approach. This collaboration will include training Hyundai engineers in cloud technologies and leveraging Amazon’s research tools to gain deeper insights into its customer base.
Looking ahead, Hyundai is planning to integrate Amazon’s voice assistant, Alexa, into its vehicles. By 2025, Hyundai owners will have access to a hands-free Alexa experience in their cars, enabling them to control smart devices, access their calendars, and receive weather and traffic updates. This aligns with Kia’s earlier announcement that they too will be using Alexa as their in-car voice assistant.
The Amazon-Hyundai partnership not only revolutionizes the car buying process but also sets the stage for the integration of advanced technologies into future vehicles. As more automakers turn to e-commerce platforms like Amazon, the industry is poised for a new era of convenience and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can customers buy cars directly from Amazon?
A: Yes, customers will be able to browse and purchase new cars through Amazon’s e-commerce platform.
Q: Which automaker is the first to partner with Amazon for online car sales?
A: Hyundai is the first automaker to offer a virtual showroom on Amazon, allowing customers to explore and buy cars online.
Q: How will the purchased cars be delivered?
A: Customers can choose to have their purchased cars delivered by a local dealer or pick them up in person.
Q: What other benefits does the partnership between Amazon and Hyundai offer?
A: In addition to online car sales, Hyundai will utilize Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its preferred cloud provider for a more digital-first approach. The collaboration also includes training Hyundai engineers in cloud technologies and utilizing Amazon’s research tools.
Q: Will Hyundai vehicles integrate Amazon’s voice assistant, Alexa?
A: Yes, Hyundai plans to incorporate Alexa into its vehicles by 2025, allowing owners to have a hands-free Alexa experience in their cars.