Amazon announced a strategic partnership with Hyundai, marking its entry into the car sales sector. Starting in 2024, American customers will be able to buy Hyundai-branded cars directly from Amazon.
The purchasing process doesn’t seem that different from purchasing anything else on the platform. Users will be able to search for cars and choose between different models, trim levels, features, colors, etc. They will also have the opportunity to collect their car from the nearest dealership or even have it delivered.
The entire transaction, from selection to financing, can be completed online, providing a convenient Amazon-standard process.
Dealers stand to benefit from a valuable new way to showcase their cars to consumers, improving their visibility and streamlining their customer service, with Amazon essentially acting as a middleman.
Amazon’s history in the automotive sector includes a previous collaboration with Hyundai for an online showroom. This new company, however, is the first to allow complete car purchases on its platform.
Online car sales have started to become more popular during the pandemic and the sector is expected to continue to grow. Amazon’s involvement is seen as a major development in the market, given its reputation and reach in online retail.
Alexa integration
The partnership also includes the integration of Amazon’s Alexa into Hyundai cars from 2025 and a commitment to using Amazon’s cloud services.
The move reflects Amazon’s broader strategy to expand its online retail offerings.
Andy Jassy, Amazon CEO said in a blog post:
“Hyundai is a highly innovative company that shares Amazon’s passion for trying to make its customers’ lives better and easier every day.
“Our broad strategic partnership is expected to do just that, from changing the ease with which customers can purchase vehicles online to making it simpler to use Alexa in Hyundai vehicles for entertainment, shopping, from smart home settings and calendar checking to enabling Hyundai to transform their customer experiences and business operations by moving to AWS. We look forward to inventing together for many years.
Amazon is the ‘ideal partner,’ says Hyundai CEO
Hyundai Motor Co Chairman Jaehoon (Jay) Chang sees the partnership as an opportunity to increase sales, advance electric vehicle technology and promote smart mobility.
“Partnering with one of the world’s most customer-centric organizations unlocks incredible opportunities as we continue to expand our portfolio, grow our sales network, transition to electrification and realize the future of smart mobility. » Chang said.
He added:
“Amazon is the ideal partner to help us realize our vision of progress for humanity, including improving the way people and goods move more efficiently and sustainably. Hyundai is the first automaker available for complete end-to-end transactions in Amazon’s U.S. store and is another example of how we continue to look for ways to improve the customer journey with our remarkable partners. retail.
