American multinational tech firm Amazon will start selling vehicles on its widespread platform in 2024, according to the press release it published today.
This significant development is part of the new partnership it formed with South Korean automaker Hyundai, which was announced at the 2023 LA Auto Show. Through this strategic collaboration, potential buyers can now acquire Hyundai cars on Amazon.com through their chosen payment method as early as next year. They can also decide if they want to pick up the car at a dealership or just receive delivery at their home.
“We’re excited to be working with Hyundai—the third-largest carmaker in the world and a leading innovator in the industry. Together, we will provide customers with more of the buying experiences they want—and support dealers with an efficient and effective selling platform.”
Marty Mallick, Amazon’s Worldwide Business and Corporate Development VP
Transaction concept
The Verge noted that this new collaboration between the tech giant and Hyundai ensures that the end seller remains the dealer in the transaction.
That said, Amazon will just basically act as the middleman between the buyer and the dealer.
However, Amazon has yet to disclose if it is currently negotiating with other car companies about potential listing of their offerings on the site.
“This new shopping experience will create another way for dealers to build awareness of their selection and offer convenience to their customers.”
Amazon
Hyundai EVs to feature Alexa voice assistant
What’s more exciting about this partnership is that it will also equip Hyundai’s next-gen vehicles with the hands-free Alexa voice assistant.
Alexa can assist future Hyundai vehicle owners in various matters, including playing music and podcasts. It can also smartly set reminders, check calendars, and update lists to ensure that the owner is on track.
Owners can also manage their homes while driving on the road, such as temperature configurations and door locking.
Hyundai chooses AWS
Amazon also disclosed in the press release that Hyundai officially selected Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its cloud provider to ensure a more convenient buying experience.
This move is part of the company’s efforts to advance as a more ” data-driven organization with a cloud-first technology strategy.”
It is also worth noting that Hyundai and Amazon’s partnership can aid the automaker in avoiding 48 US states’ restrictions or bans on direct customer sales. This strategic process guarantees that dealers are still an important part of the transaction, as they serve as the middleman between the buyer and the seller.
