Viewing a vehicle under Covid-19 restrictions calls for some interesting applications and out of the bricks and mortar box thinking.
Just before lockdown four, Renault NZ did a conventional range launch showcasing its automatic Trafic, facelifted Master van and a variety of future models due here later this year.
The launch was extensive and demonstrated Renault NZ’s intentions to cement itself as a main-stream market player. Then Covid-19 happened.
Renault NZ refused to let a little pesky bug take away all the momentum the brand had built up and developed a new online virtual showroom where customers can be guided around Renault models using video call technology.
And today, while the country is still shrugging off the effects of Coronavirus, Renault’s virtual showroom may well become a significant tool for the dealership of the future.
This online service means that potential customers can still browse and receive advice on models at time which suits them.
“The Renault Virtual Showroom enables potential customers to get up close and personal with our vehicles whilst they are stuck at home,” says Renault New Zealand General Manager Sam Waller.
Live virtual tours enable customers to see exactly what they are like with the help of a Renault specialist and without the need to leave the safety and comfort of their home.
Mr Waller adds, “Our Specialists are able to show the customer the model in detail, and answer any questions then and there, just like being shown around a new car in a physical showroom”.
Clients can see for themselves all the features of each car, from guiding through the R-Link infotainment centre on the Koleos to how to put the zero-emissions Zoe on charge, or to slide the rear seats of the practical Captur. Renault also has the full range of award-winning commercial vans on display.
Following a comprehensive tour around one of Renault’s award-winning models, customers can book a contact-less test drive or receive a brochure to continue researching their new vehicle.
The Virtual Showroom offers all that a ‘bricks and mortar’ showroom does, including the ability for a Renault Finance team member to follow up and discuss trade-ins, finance and leasing options.
For the moment, the book-a-time-to-visit the Renault Virtual Showroom is open for Live Tours between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.
From the Renault.co.nz website, customers can simply select the model they are interested in, select a date and book a 30-minute time slot that suits them.
An email confirmation with the virtual appointment link is sent for customers to join the call at their selected time.
Safety is the company’s number one priority. The Virtual Showroom has been adapted with stringent measures and processes, to go beyond the official requirements of hygiene, personal protection and social distancing.
