Ford Partners with Amazon to Boost Used Car Sales
▼ Summary
– Amazon is expanding its car sales business by partnering with Ford for certified pre-owned vehicles, following its initial launch with Hyundai a year ago.
– Customers can browse, finance, and purchase certified pre-owned Ford vehicles through Amazon Autos, with dealerships remaining involved in the process.
– The program includes a money-back guarantee allowing returns within 14 days or 1,000 miles for vehicles sold on Amazon Autos.
– Amazon Autos enables shoppers to search for vehicles by model, trim, color, and features, and complete financing and paperwork online.
– Ford vehicles will initially be available on Amazon Autos in select markets, including Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dallas.
Finding a reliable used car just became significantly more convenient for many shoppers. Ford has officially teamed up with Amazon to sell its certified pre-owned vehicles directly through the Amazon Autos platform. This strategic move, announced recently, builds upon the e-commerce giant’s existing automotive retail venture, which initially launched in partnership with Hyundai for new car sales.
The collaboration is designed to streamline the car-buying journey while keeping local dealerships central to the process. Prospective buyers can browse the available inventory of participating Ford dealers right on Amazon’s website. They have the ability to search based on specific preferences like model, trim level, color, and various features. A significant portion of the transaction, including financing arrangements and electronic document signing, can be completed online before a vehicle is ever picked up.
A major confidence-booster for customers is the included money-back guarantee. Any certified pre-owned Ford purchased through Amazon Autos can be returned within 14 days or before reaching 1,000 miles, whichever milestone occurs first. This policy aims to reduce the perceived risk of buying a vehicle online.
While Amazon’s foray into car sales began with new Hyundais, the addition of Ford marks a deliberate expansion into the certified pre-owned market. This segment appeals to buyers seeking nearly-new vehicle quality and rigorous inspections, often at a more accessible price point than brand-new models.
Initially, this new purchasing option will be available on a limited basis. Customers located in the metropolitan areas of Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dallas will be the first to have access to Ford’s certified pre-owned inventory on Amazon, with the potential for a wider rollout in the future.
(Source: TechCrunch)
