News
Car dealers fast lane contactless tech
Wednesday May 20th, 2020
A Hampshire digital agency is putting car dealership customers in the virtual driving seat during the coronavirus pandemic.
MediaBase Direct (MBD) is using technology to protect visitors and staff, with a cutting-edge contactless system for showrooms and used car courts.
The innovative ‘Contactless Digital Safeguarding’ solution complements physical measures being introduced in showrooms to combat coronavirus, including a ban on visitors sitting in cars to avoid the risk of cross-contamination. Visitors can scan Quick Response (QR) codes on their smart phones to access instant information about an individual vehicle, request more details, book a test drive, or leave their contact number and email.
The codes can also be positioned on used vehicles outside to allow potential buyers to access details when the sales centre is closed – giving dealerships the edge on competitors and providing enhanced customer service.
MBD has launched the new system as the auto industry embraces digital integration and seeks new ways of working during the pandemic, including ‘click and collect’ for cars ordered online or over the phone.
Daniel Jain, MBD Head of Product, said: “Many dealerships are putting physical measures in place but may have overlooked the importance of a robust digital safety system.
“Introducing a contactless solution will strengthen their workplace practice in health and safety while delivering an enhanced, modern customer experience which goes beyond that of the pre-Covid dealership.
“It will propel dealerships into the digital age with rich content, including compelling videos and brilliant images, at the customer’s fingertips while giving them confidence to return to the showroom.”
Daniel added: “The automotive industry is absolutely crucial for the health of UK plc.
“Digital integration will support the beleaguered motor industry, which has suffered its severest drop in sales since the Second World War, and provide a road map forward.”
With many dealerships offering appointment only viewings or test-drives, visitors can pre-register and be endorsed after answering screening questions about coronavirus symptoms and contacts. The intelligent QR system will allow test drives to be booked at set intervals with fast-track entry to cut waiting times and queues in support of social distancing while providing greater customer service.
Potential customers will also have information stored on their smart phone to review later – cutting the amount of sales brochures required and showroom waste.
MBD is packaging its new contactless QR system with its GDPR compliant e-Reception Book which allows visitors to check in on a tablet or screen at showrooms or with a receptionist.
The Data Marketing Association (DMA) backed system also includes screening questions and gives track and trace capabilities for past and present movements for any given emergency.
It also dovetails with a companion app which sends notifications so staff can meet visitors quickly and escort them from communal areas to maintain safe social distancing.
Visit their website, call 01489 668181 or email anil.jain@mediabasedirect.com for more details.
