Volkswagen is following in Tesla’s footsteps and launching online sales for two of their electric vehicles (EVs).
The automaker is now taking orders for the ID.4 and ID.5, with plans to soon add the ID.3. The option is only available to customers in Germany, but the service will expand to other countries soon.
For now VW only allows customers to lease vehicles through their online portal, where they can configure their vehicle and options and complete the entire lease agreement on a PC, phone, or tablet.
Cash purchase and financing options will be added to the tool at a later date.
VW expects the online offering to be a popular one among German consumers.
“Surveys show that around two-thirds of our customers also want to be able to purchase our vehicles online. We’re now addressing that wish. Our mission is to give our customers an excellent offering and buying experience both at dealerships and online. As a result, we’ll also strengthen our competitiveness lastingly,” said Klaus Zellmer, member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Sales, Marketing and After Sales.
Despite the launch of online sales, VW isn’t abandoning their dealership model.
“Online sales will not replace the brick-and-mortar dealership. We need a good online presence coupled with a strong and powerful local presence provided by our dealers. Dealers are and will remain the face to our customers. They are indispensable when it comes to providing personal, competent advice,” said Zellmer.
