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Car review

Mercedes-Benz CLE

Is the Mercedes-Benz CLE more like a pumped-up C-Class or a slimmed-down E-Class? At first glance, its size might lead you to think it’s more like the former.

However, once you step inside, it becomes obvious that the CLE’s interior is derived from the C-Class. The distinctive quartic air vents, tapering fascia panel, and glossy black center stack and transmission tunnel all give away its C-Class roots. It may disappoint those hoping for the wider and more expansive fascia of the E-Class.

The lower fascia plastics also lack the tactile material quality of an E-Class, with a hint of hard and reflective cheapness. Mercedes tries to distract you from this with its usual flashy chrome and gloss carbon fiber. Overall, the ambience is rich enough but not as lavish and expensive-feeling as some might expect.

However, the CLE boasts impressive digital technology. It features the new E-Class’s third-generation MBUX infotainment system, which has a more powerful processor and a simplified top-level menu system with larger icons. It also offers fully integrated and connected compatibility with Android apps like TikTok, Webex, and Zoom (note that video conferencing apps only work when the car is parked). The revised home screen layout improves usability.

While owners of the E-Class Coupe may find the material quality in the CLE not up to par with their old car, they will appreciate the digital technology that Mercedes emphasizes. The car also provides decent usable space. The front seats offer generous elbow and headroom, even for taller adults. In the back, it’s more suitable for smaller adults or children, but it’s still an improvement from the cramped C-Class Coupe and slightly better than its main rivals: Audi A5 Coupe and BMW 4-Series Coupe.

News

Mini Aceman and Cooper EVs to be manufactured in Oxford from 2026

The investment in building Mini Aceman and Cooper electric vehicles in Oxford is seen as a significant show of confidence in the UK economy by Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch. She stated that the government’s efforts to support the automotive sector have been successful, resulting in high-quality jobs, stronger supply chains, and economic growth for Britain. The battery supplier for the Oxford-built EVs has not yet been announced, but BMW Group currently collaborates with Samsung and CATL, the latter of which is constructing a battery factory in Germany.

This year marks the 110th anniversary of the plant, known as Cowley, which played a pivotal role in introducing mass production to the UK with the Morris ‘Bullnose’ saloon before World War I. Cowley was also the home of Morris Minor production for over two decades. Since 2000, the plant has been manufacturing BMW Group’s Mini models, including the electric version of the current hatch introduced 19 years later. In fact, electric Mini production constituted a significant proportion of the plant’s output last year, making it the largest EV producer in the UK. The facility currently employs around 3,400 individuals.

Stefanie Wurst, the head of Mini, expressed her appreciation for the strong connection between Mini and the UK, as the brand was born and established in Oxford. She assured that the company is committed to taking care of the plant, which is considered the heart of the Mini brand. Wurst highlighted the brand’s rich heritage, which is now being updated and given a promising future, and expressed her hope that the UK will perceive and acknowledge this transformation.

Blue 2024 Mini Cooper Electric – front quarter static

Motorsport

2024 Hyundai i30 N Hot Hatch Spied Hiding Possible Second Facelift

Hyundai, known for its short product life cycles, is surprisingly working on a second facelift for the i30 N. Unlike its usual practice of making significant modifications for a facelifted version, this time the changes seem to be minor. Recent spy shots captured a camouflaged prototype of the i30 N near the Nürburgring, revealing subtle updates compared to the refreshed hot hatch released in 2020.

Upon closer inspection, it appears that the test vehicle features the same revised headlights and taillights introduced in the first facelift for the i30 N. While the camouflage might be deceiving, there are some noticeable novelties at the front. The bumper has been redesigned to accommodate vertical air intakes, and the honeycomb pattern of the front grille has undergone a slight change. Additionally, the area surrounding the lower intake has seen mild revisions.


Motorsport

Tour An Abandoned Saab Dealership With Over 20 Forgotten Cars

In 2011, Saab went out of business. While many dealers transitioned to selling other automobiles, an abandoned Saab dealership in France did not. Urban explorers recently visited the dealership and discovered that it closed suddenly, leaving behind around 20 cars in various states of repair.

The Saab dealership originally opened in 1972, and it was operated by the same family that also ran a Husqvarna store in the same building. The business reportedly faced difficulties when one of the brothers fell ill.

Unfortunately, the abandoned dealership has been previously visited by less scrupulous individuals who broke windows and stole parts from the vehicles.

Inside the main showroom, there are two Saab 9-3s and a Saab 9-5. Aside from missing pieces and broken windows, these cars appear to be restorable.

The various offices are filled with garbage, as people seemingly tore things apart in search of valuables. However, the brochures, dealer artwork, and even paint samples and upholstery offerings remain, although they have significantly faded due to sun exposure.

In the workshop, there is an even bigger surprise. Alongside more Saabs, there are also Citroen, Peugeot, and Renault models. Several Saab 9000s, possibly dating back to 1998, can be found. The Saab 9000 model was first produced in 1984.

Some of the cars in the workshop have managed to avoid damage from looters. While covered in dust, many of these vehicles could potentially be restored to running condition with some cleaning and fresh fluids. There are plenty of YouTube channels specializing in cleaning vehicles in much worse condition than these.

The workshop also houses various spare parts, including at least one engine block. For Saab enthusiasts and specialists, this collection of cars and components would be considered a treasure trove. The spare parts could keep many Saab 9-3s, 9-5s, and 9000s on the road as donors.

Following Saab’s bankruptcy, the factory and remaining assets were purchased by NEVS. Although NEVS had plans to produce an electric version of the Saab 9-3, they ended up building a few combustion-powered versions using the leftover parts.

MRR

Global Automotive Artificial Intelligence Strategic Business Report 2023: The Age of AI Has Arrived & Here’s How it Promises to Revolutionize Automobiles

Global Automotive Artificial Intelligence Strategic Business Report 2023: The Age of AI Has Arrived & Here’s How it Promises to Revolutionize Automobiles

DUBLIN, June 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — The “Automotive Artificial Intelligence: Global Strategic Business Report” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering.

Global Automotive Artificial Intelligence Market to Reach $14.8 Billion by 2030

In the changed post COVID-19 business landscape, the global market for Automotive Artificial Intelligence estimated at $3.2 Billion in the year 2022, is projected to reach a revised size of $14.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 20.9% over the analysis period 2022-2030.

Software, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record 22.5% CAGR and reach $9.6 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Taking into account the ongoing post pandemic recovery, growth in the Hardware segment is readjusted to a revised 18.4% CAGR for the next 8-year period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at $1.2 Billion, While China is Forecast to Grow at 23.1% CAGR

The Automotive Artificial Intelligence market in the U.S. is estimated at $1.2 Billion in the year 2022. China, the world’s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of $2.4 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 23.1% over the analysis period 2022 to 2030.

Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 16.3% and 18.3% respectively over the 2022-2030 period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 20.3% CAGR.

Looking Ahead to 2023

Lower capital expenditure is in the offing as companies go slow on investments, held back by inflation worries and weaker demand. With slower growth and high inflation, developed markets seem primed to enter into a recession.

Fears of new COVID outbreaks and China’s already uncertain post-pandemic path poses a real risk of the world experiencing more acute supply chain pain and manufacturing disruptions this year.

Volatile financial markets, growing trade tensions, stricter regulatory environment and pressure to mainstream climate change into economic decisions will compound the complexity of challenges faced.

Year 2023 is expected to be tough year for most markets, investors and consumers. Nevertheless, there is always opportunity for businesses and their leaders who can chart a path forward with resilience and adaptability.

What’s New for 2023?

– Special coverage on Russia-Ukraine war; global inflation; easing of zero-Covid policy in China and its ‘bumpy’ reopening; supply chain disruptions, global trade tensions; and risk of recession.
– Global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares
– Market presence across multiple geographies – Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial
– Online interactive peer-to-peer collaborative bespoke updates
– Access to digital archives and Research Platform
– Complimentary updates for one year

Key Topics Covered:

MARKET OVERVIEW
– The Age of AI Has Arrived & Here’s How it Promises to Revolutionize Automobiles
– Evolution & Growth of AI as Measured by the Robust Spending on AI Enablement, Primes the Technology for Use in Automobiles: Global Market for Artificial Intelligence (AI) (In US$ Billion) for Years 2021, 2023, 2025 & 2027
– How & Where is AI Used in the Automobile Industry?: % Breakdown of Automotive AI Spending by Application Area as of the Year 2022
– Global Economic Update
– Competition
– Automotive Artificial Intelligence – Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2022 (E)
– Competitive Market Presence – Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2022 (E)
– Automotive Artificial Intelligence: Global Market Prospects & Outlook
– World Brands
– Recent Market Activity
– Innovations

MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS
– Growing Demand for Connected & Safe In-Car Infotainment Systems to Expand Use of AI Technology in Vehicles
– AI Integration into In-Vehicle Infotainment Systems Gathers Momentum, Supported by Strong Demand for Intuitive, Smarter & Safer Systems: Global Automotive Infotainment Market Opportunity (in US$ Billion) by Geographic Region for the Years 2021, 2023, 2025 and 2027
– Swift Progress Towards Autonomous Vehicle Commercialization to Drive the Importance of AI Technology
– Exhibit Global Autonomous Vehicle Sales (In Million) for Years 2020, 2025 & 2030
– Against the Backdrop of Rising Automobile Thefts, AI Makes It Presence Felt in the Vehicle Access Control Space
– As the Number of Cars Stolen Each Year Increases, AI Emerges Into the Spotlight for its Ability to Make Vehicle Access Control Systems More Fool Proof: Vehicle Thefts (In 000 Vehicles) in the United States for the Years 2019 through 2022
– Motor Vehicle Theft in the United States by Area Type as of the Year 2022
– Growing Popularity of In-Car Payments Bodes Well for the Adoption of AI in Automobiles
– The Need for Intuitive & Safer Vehicle HMI Solutions Drives the Use of AI
– Robust Innovations in the Automotive HMI Market Bodes Well for Adoption of AI Technology in HMI R&D, Design and Development: Global Market for Automotive HMI (In US$ Billion) for Years 2022, 2024, 2026, 2028 and 2030
– Focus on Driver Behavior Intelligence Expands the Role of AI in Driver Monitoring
– Here’s How AI Enables Secure Vehicular Communication in the Era of Internet of Cars

FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS (Total 133 Featured)
– Argo AI, LLC
– Ather Energy
– Audi AG
– Automotive Artificial Intelligence (AAI) GmbH
– BMW AG
– Mercedes-Benz Group AG
– Ford Motor Company
– General Motors Company
– German Autolabs
– Harman International Industries Inc.
– Honda Motor Co. Ltd.
– Hyundai Motor Corporation
– IBM Corporation
– iGloble Software Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
– Intel Corporation
– Micron Technology, Inc.
– Microsoft Corporation
– Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
– Motional, Inc.
– Nauto
– Nvidia Corporation
– Qualcomm Inc.
– Refraction AI
– SapientX, Inc.
– Soniclue
– Tesla Inc.
– Tractable (UK)
– Uber Technologies Inc.
– Volvo Car Corporation
– Xilinx Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/qlu8eg

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world’s leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets
Laura Wood, Senior Manager
[email protected]

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SOURCE Research and Markets

MRR

Global Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) Strategic Business Report 2023: Stringent Vehicular Emission Norms Throws the Focus Squarely on NGVs

Global Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) Strategic Business Report 2023: Stringent Vehicular Emission Norms Throws the Focus Squarely on NGVs

DUBLIN, June 16, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — The “Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs): Global Strategic Business Report” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering.

The global market for Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) estimated at 25.2 Million Units in the year 2022, is projected to reach a revised size of 42.3 Million Units by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.7% over the analysis period 2022-2030.

Light Duty Vehicles, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record a 6.8% CAGR and reach 39 Million Units by the end of the analysis period.

Taking into account the ongoing post-pandemic recovery, growth in the Medium & Heavy Duty Trucks segment is readjusted to a revised 6% CAGR for the next 8-year period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at 172.2 Thousand Units, While China is Forecast to Grow at 7.4% CAGR

The Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) market in the U.S. is estimated at 172.2 Thousand Units in the year 2022. China, the world’s second-largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of 9.9 Million Units by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 7.4% over the analysis period 2022 to 2030.

Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 4.9% and 5.5% respectively over the 2022-2030 period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 5.7% CAGR. Led by countries such as Australia, India, and South Korea, the market in Asia-Pacific is forecast to reach 11.6 Million Units by the year 2030.

Select Competitors (Total 55 Featured) –
AB Volvo
Bajaj Auto Limited
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG
CNH Industrial N.V.
Daimler AG
Dongfeng Motor Corporation
Ford Motor Company
General Motors Company
Landi Renzo S.p.A.
Opel Automobile GmbH
PACCAR Inc.
Tata Motors Limited

Key Topics Covered:

I. METHODOLOGY

II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. MARKET OVERVIEW
– Influencer Market Insights
– World Market Trajectories
– Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) – Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2022 (E)
– Difficult to Reduce Carbon Footprint of the Automotive Industry Shifts Focus to Alternate Fuel Vehicles
– Inability of Conventional ICE Powered Vehicles to Demonstrate Desired Reductions in CO2 Emissions to Drive the Focus on Alternative Fuel Vehicles: Official Laboratory CO2 Reduction Claims Vs On-Road Emission Efficiency (In Grams per Kilometer) for the Years 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2020
– Year 2020 Has Been a Year of Astounding Disruption & Unbelievable Transformation
– COVID-19 Leaves the World in Shambles & Industries and Markets Upended: World Economic Growth Projections (Real GDP, Annual % Change) for 2019 to 2022
– Continued High Unemployment Levels Challenges Growth in Industries Reliant on Consumer Discretionary Incomes: Global Number of Unemployed People (In Million) for Years 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2022
– As Mass Vaccination Drives Get Underway Worldwide, Will It Change the Existing Economic Realities? & Is it Really the Silver Bullet We Were Waiting For?
– How Fast the World is Vaccinated Will Determine How Soon the Pandemic Will End: Global Number of COVID-19 Vaccinations (Per 100 People) As of February 2021 by country
– Global Number of Annual COVID-19 Vaccine Doses (In Million) for Years 2020 through 2025 by Geographic Region/Country
– How the Automotive & Clean-Tech Industries Are Impacted by the Pandemic & What’s the New Normal?
– The Automotive Industry
– Global Automotive Market Reset & Trajectory – Growth Outlook (In %) For Years 2019 Through 2025
– Clean Technologies
– A Strong Rebound in Clean Technologies Brings Good News for NGVs: Global Clean Technologies Market Reset & Trajectory – Growth Outlook (In %) For Years 2019 Through 2025
– Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) – Definition & Scope
– Recent Market Activity
– Innovations
– Competitive Market Presence – Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2022 (E)

2. FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS

3. MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS
– Growing Global Focus on Decarbonizing the World Offers Attractive Opportunities for NGVs in Decarbonizing the Transportation Sector
– Stringent Vehicular Emission Norms Throws the Focus Squarely on NGVs
– A Review of Environmental & Emission Norms Legislated Till Date
– With Transportation Accounting for Close to 23.2% of Global GHG Emissions, the Time is Ripe for the Adoption of an Integrated Approach Towards Reducing CO2 Involving NGVs: Global CO2 Emissions (In Billion Metric Tons) for the Year 2021
– Post COVID-19 Focus on Sustainability Will Drive NGV Adoption in Creating a Cleaner & Greener Transportation Industry
– Here’s Why the Environment & Sustainability Will be Top Priorities After the Pandemic
– Compliance Standards for Reducing Emissions from Vehicles to Become Stricter, Post Pandemic Global GHG Emissions from Transportation (In Billion Tons of CO2) for the Year 2021
– How NGVs Can Help Address the Sustainability Challenge?
– Cost Benefits, Environmental Motives and Government Incentives Catalyze Adoption Rates of NGVs
– Commercial Vehicle Fleet Owners Adopt NGVs to Meet Carbon Footprint Goals & Drive Profits Through Higher Fuel Economy
– Rising Popularity of EVs. What Does it Mean for NGVs
– Global EV Market Outlook
– Growing Number of EVs On Road, Will It Dislodge Technology Investments in NGVs: Number of EVs On Road Worldwide by Type (In 000 Units) for the Years 2019 and 2022
– NGVs Will Continue to Have a Future Alongside EVs, Here’s Why?
– Initiatives Undertaken for the Development of Fueling Infrastructure Spurs NGV Penetration
– Bio-CNG Vehicles Emerge to Counter the Methane Emission Threat Posed by NGVs
– Cost Pressures in the Logistics Industry Spurs Market Opportunities for Natural Gas as a Cost-Effective Alternate Fuel
– Focus on Road Infrastructure Development Post Pandemic to Ensure Sustained Growth of NGVs in Road Freight Transportation
– Continuous Development of World’s Highways to Expand Market Opportunities for Commercial Vehicle NGVs: Length of Road Networks (In 000 Kilometers) in Top 15 Countries Worldwide for the Year 2020
– Natural Gas Market Outlook
– How Shale Gas Revolution Has Lowered Natural Gas Prices?
– Despite the Strengthening of Prices Post 2020 Crisis, Natural Gas Still Remains Cheap
– Growing Competition from Liquid Biofuels Pose a Challenge to Market Prospects

4. GLOBAL MARKET PERSPECTIVE

III. MARKET ANALYSIS

IV. COMPETITION

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/931zkb

About ResearchAndMarkets.com
ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world’s leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products, and the latest trends.

Media Contact:
Research and Markets
Laura Wood, Senior Manager
[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470
For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630
For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904
Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets

News, Technology

Squarespace to Acquire Google Domains Assets from Alphabet

Squarespace has announced its plan to purchase the assets of Google Domains, making it the new marketplace for almost 10 million domains previously associated with Google’s short-lived venture. To address concerns about domain renewal, Squarespace guarantees that it will honor the existing renewal prices for Google Domains customers for at least 12 months after the transaction is complete.

Both companies claim that the process of transferring domains will be smooth, although this is usually not the case. It is uncertain whether Squarespace will increase prices or promote its website-building services after the 12-month period of honoring renewal rates.

Nevertheless, this acquisition presents a significant business opportunity for Squarespace. According to the company’s announcement, it will be the exclusive domain marketplace for individuals seeking a domain with a minimum three-year subscription to Google Workspace. Squarespace, known for its website-building platform, also offers domain name registration services. For current Google Domains customers, no immediate action is required. Squarespace allows users to transfer their website to its platform and move their custom domain from one site to another, as long as it is hosted on Squarespace servers.

News, Technology

Europe May Break Up Google’s Adtech Business Over Alleged Anticompetitive Practices

Europe may soon take action against Google’s adtech business due to alleged anticompetitive practices. The European Commission, after evaluating Google’s dominant position in the online ad industry, has concluded that only divesting part of its services would address competition concerns. This would involve Google selling off its core ad-tech assets. It’s not the first time Google has faced scrutiny for its practices. In January, the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit accusing Google of monopolistic behavior that harmed publishers and advertisers in the US. The Justice Department has also previously indicated support for breaking up Google’s ad-tech conglomerate. Similarly, the United Kingdom’s Competition and Markets Authority is investigating Google’s ad-tech business. European Commissioner for Competition, Margrethe Vestager, states that if Google’s abusive conduct is confirmed, it would be illegal under EU competition rules. Rivals and online publishers have long complained about Google’s extensive control over the online advertising ecosystem, arguing that it gives the company an unfair advantage.

Motorsport

Hyundai Ioniq 7: A New Seven-Passenger SUV with Interesting Details

In North America, three-row passenger SUVs are a hot commodity. As one of the most sought-after segments behind pickup trucks, almost every manufacturer either sells such a vehicle today or is actively working on one. Hyundai’s Palisade is its current offering, but it will soon be joined by an all-electric Ioniq 7.

The Ioniq 7 is based on the Kia EV9, which also benefits from the enlarged E-GMP platform. It will be the third-row crossover that anchors the Korean automaker’s electric SUV lineup. From its spy photos, it bears a strong resemblance to its Kia cousin and the renderings we saw last year. The body and roofline are similar to those of the EV9, but the front and rear fascias are concealed, indicating a different design.


VolvoCars

Volvo Cars accelerates commercial transformation with the UK on course to become the brand’s first direct sales market

We’re getting ready for a fundamental change in how we do business and 2023 will be an important year for us. This year, our commercial transformation gathers pace as we evolve what we sell, how we sell and where we sell.

This transformation is crucial to our long-term ambitions and growth as a company. We will be fully electric by 2030, introduce new ways to access a Volvo car, roll out a seamless online and physical retail experience, and create a lot more direct relationships with our ever-growing consumer base around the world.

Europe, our largest sales region and furthest along in the move towards full electrification, is spearheading this transformation – already in 2022, online and direct sales represented 11 per cent of the total sales in our top five European markets.

In the United Kingdom the change is already well under way, with many direct sales channels already operational. Since 2019, it has been possible to order a Volvo car online in the UK. The subsequent launch of the Care by Volvo subscription service in September 2020 offered a new, flexible alternative to traditional car ownership. To date, more than 12,000 new cars have been sold by this direct channel.

In early 2022 we were the first manufacturer in the UK to launch an online direct sales platform for approved-used cars. We then provided a new solution for Fleet and Business consumers with a tool for SMEs to order and manage their company cars directly with us online.

In June this year we’ll be taking the next important step as the UK becomes our first 100 per cent direct market when we close the UK wholesale channel. It is important to note that we are not closing the Volvo Cars retailers. They continue to be an important part of a seamless online and physical consumer experience. Sweden will be the next market to switch to this model, while other markets in Europe will follow as they become ready.

Getting a new Volvo: you’re in the driver’s seat

In the UK, our new approach to getting a Volvo car is designed around flexibility for the consumer. You decide how you access a new Volvo model: through subscription, leasing, Personal Contract Purchase (PCP), Volvo Loan or outright purchase.

Regardless of whether you visit one of our retailer partners, walk into our urban studio, head to our website or use the Volvo Cars app, everyone should get the same outstanding and meaningful experience.

“Evolving consumer needs are the driving force behind this change. We want to provide the best possible experience for our consumers, whatever their buying preferences. The transformation is being undertaken in close collaboration with our retailer partners and we are confident it will deliver an industry-leading buying process,” says Kristian Elvefors, Volvo Car UK Managing Director. “It’s exciting to see the progress we’ve already made as we transition our business and continue the roll out of this new sales model. So far this year, 17% of our sales have been online and direct, and they continue to grow as we move towards the completion of this transformation.”

This simple and smooth buying process will be underpinned by our online store, volvocars.com. Transparent and national online pricing without haggling or hidden fees, as well as an easy-to-understand offer, makes ordering a new Volvo car a breeze.

Consumers can complete an order in a few simple steps and follow their car through every phase of the delivery process via the Volvo Cars app. Here, they also find all car-related services and functionalities in a user-friendly, seamless interface.

Apart from simplifying our offer and introducing more transparent pricing, we’re also investing in a centralised digital inventory system that will allow us to see all cars that are available across the country at any given time. That allows us to locate and deliver cars faster.

While online consumer relationships will play an increasingly important role, our physical retailers will always be a key component of our success. Not only will they deliver and service cars, they will remain responsible for a lot of everyday contact with consumers, such as providing test drives and assisting them through the new sales process.

“We are really looking forward to continuing our strong relationship with Volvo Car UK as we undergo this huge transformation,” says Chris Carr, Managing Director and owner of Volvo Cars Shrewsbury, who was among the first to sign the new partner agreement. “Volvo has shown willingness to listen to retailers throughout this journey and demonstrated openness. This collaboration leaves us, as retailers, in a really positive place to drive our businesses forward, while securing a fundamental role in the future of Volvo’s first direct sales market.”

Together with our retailer partners, we’ll also keep investing in advanced data analytics capabilities. By analysing how customers use our platforms, interact with our brand and use our products, we can understand them even better: what they want and how we can make their lives easier.