9:13 am, May 5, 2017
SKODA UK has launched its first online showroom. Customers can access the Skoda Live Tour on their computer, tablet or smartphone – and gain the showroom experience at a time and place that suits them.
Skoda Live Tour instantly connects the customer to a Skoda product host by an online video link, who takes them into the Live Tour showroom and introduces the Skoda models.
‘Customers are seeking convenience and excellent service when looking to make a car purchase, and with more and more people doing their research online ahead of going to the showroom, the ŠKODA Live Tour brings the retail experience to a digital world that is easily accessible’, says Jonathan Harris, Skoda new retail concepts manager.
‘Our ŠKODA Product Hosts in the Live Tour essentially become our customer’s eyes and ears and use a series of static and handheld cameras to give the retailer experience all through an online platform.
Harris adds: ‘This is an important step for the brand and the future of automotive retail and how we interact with customers. Once we have opened up dialogue with the customers in the online environment, we then encourage them to visit a Skoda retailer and test drive our models for real.’
Skoda Live Tour utilises Whisbi’s cloud-based conversational technology to bring the real retailer experience online. Through the use of live video streaming, the customer is instantly connected to the Live Tour and a Product Host who uses a mix of smartphone camera and static cameras to showcase the details of the cars.
The consultant can present the exterior and interior of the vehicle, demonstrate ‘Simply Clever’ features, explain details such as the infotainment-system menu, and answer specific questions. If the potential buyer is interested in the boot, the product host can take them to the rear by mobile camera and demonstrate the loading space live.
During the conversation in the Live Tour, the product host can assist the customer in the online configuration of their desired vehicle and the search for a local Skoda retailer. The Skoda product host can also request an appointment for a test drive in person at the customer’s retailer of choice. The customer can input text via a chat window, for example, to confirm their name, address or email address.
The new Skoda Kodiaq and recently facelifted Octavia are ready for live presentation in the first online showroom, giving users an exciting preview of the brand’s first large SUV. The Skoda product host can present the Kodiaq or Octavia to customers in detail, and can carry out the configuration with them directly.
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