Auto dealerships must continually adapt and innovate to stay ahead of the curve. With new technology and changes in consumer behavior, it can be challenging to keep up. However, there are some key innovations that your dealership should take advantage of to stay ahead of the competition. Here are eight of them:
1. GPS Technology
It’s no secret that GPS technology has changed the way people live their lives. And for car dealerships, that means embracing GPS technology to make it easier to track your inventory and find suitable vehicles for your customers.
You could even use the technology to include a vehicle disable feature in your cars. If a customer ever defaults on their payments, you can remotely disable their vehicle until it is resolved.
2. Mobile Payment Options
As more and more people adopt mobile payments, businesses must keep up with the trend. And that includes auto dealerships. Offering mobile payment options will not only make it easier for customers to pay for their vehicles, but it will also give you a competitive edge over other dealerships that don’t offer the same convenience.
That’s what customers want these days — convenience. So if you can offer them a convenient way to pay for their new car, they’ll be more likely to do business with you. Of course, you’ll need to make sure you have the right mobile payment processor in place to make this happen.
3. Virtual Reality Test Drives
Virtual reality (VR) is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to experience entertainment and education. And for car dealerships, that means using virtual reality to give your customers a realistic experience of what it would be like to drive one of your cars.
The VR test drive should take the place of the traditional one. After all, why waste time and money on gas when you can give your customers a realistic experience without ever leaving the dealership? Of course, you’ll need to make sure you have the correct virtual reality equipment in place to make this happen.
4. Online Appointment Scheduling
Another innovation that your auto dealership should take advantage of is online appointment scheduling. This allows customers to schedule appointments with you online, which is convenient for them and helps you keep track of your appointments.
Plus, it’s a great way to get customers in the door. After all, if they can schedule an appointment with you online, they’re more likely to actually show up for the appointment.
5. Vehicle History Reports
Another innovation that your dealership should take advantage of is vehicle history reports. These reports give you a detailed look at a vehicle’s history, which can be helpful when it comes to making decisions about inventory.
Plus, customers will appreciate that you provide them with this valuable information. After all, they want to know that the vehicle they’re interested in is in good condition and has a clean history.
6. Social Media Marketing
As more and more people use social media, businesses need to use this platform to reach their target audiences. And that includes auto dealerships. You can use social media for marketing your dealership, such as creating informative blog posts, sharing photos and videos, and even holding contests.
Aside from marketing, social media is also a great way to connect with your customers and build relationships. After all, customers are more likely to do business with a dealership they feel they can trust.
7. Augmented Reality Displays
One innovation that your dealership should take advantage of is augmented reality displays. These displays give customers a realistic view of what a car would look like in person. Plus, they can even help customers customize their new vehicle to their liking.
This is a great way to give your customers a realistic experience without them ever having to step foot in the dealership. Plus, it’s a great way to get them interested in the car before seeing it in person.
8. Connected Cars
As automobiles become increasingly connected, it’s critical for dealerships to keep up with the latest technology. After all, customers will expect that you have the latest and greatest when it comes to car technology.
One way to do this is by offering connected cars at your dealership. Connected cars are equipped with internet connectivity and a variety of sensors. This allows them to collect data about their surroundings and even share it with other connected vehicles.
As you can see, there are several innovations your auto dealership should take advantage of to stay ahead of the competition. By embracing these technologies and trends, you’ll be able to serve your customers better and keep up with the changing times.
