ŠKODA says it is to explore new ways of using digital sales technology after its Live Tour racked up more than 2,000 online customer interactions during its 12-month trial period.
Three-quarters of the users were new to the brand, and it resulted in 38 per cent booking a test drive at their local retailer, from which a further 10 per cent went on to buy.
The Live Tour was introduced by Škoda in 2017 as a new and convenient online way for customers to research their next car purchase. The online platform has recorded a 95 per cent positive customer satisfaction score and seen an increase in the number of Motability customers.
It’s designed to work in tandem with Škoda’s retail network, and customers can interact and talk with a Product Host in the Live Tour showroom through a one-way video link. The host can demonstrate key features of the vehicle such as the infotainment system and boot space and answer questions before helping them to book a test drive at their local retailer if requested.
John French, head of sales operations for Škoda UK, said: ‘The Live Tour is a new concept for automotive retail and was introduced to adapt to changing buying habits. Consumers now research extensively online before heading to car showrooms, and the Live Tour seamlessly brings the retail experience to a digital world.
‘The results from the initial trial phase have exceeded our expectations for both volume of users and positive feedback. As we continue to look to the future of automotive retail, the Live Tour will continue to develop to help support our customers.’
The new Karoq SUV was placed in the Live Tour for an exclusive first-look three months before it went into retailers.
Digital Dealerships will be the Live Stage focus at CDX on May 21, with the automotive industry’s digital future also the subject of workshops over the two-day event. CDX – organised by Car Dealer Magazine publisher Blackball Media – is taking place at Manchester Central on May 21 and 22. It’s Europe’s largest conference and expo for the automotive retail industry and is FREE to attend. Click here for your tickets and more details about the event.
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