Rachael McBride, Public Relations Manager, carsales.com.au
Don’t write-off the car market just yet.. Toilet paper isn’t the only thing Aussies are looking to buy right now, with cars still on the shopping list.
That’s the findings of research conducted this week at carsales.com.au.
Over 1600 respondents to the survey showed Aussies are still looking to put a new car in their driveway with 19% of respondents planning to buy now, and 50% planning to buy within the next month.
When asked about buying in the current COVID-19 climate, 51% of responses referenced no concerns.
When quizzed in detail respondents logged their key apprehensions as hygiene and cleanliness of the car (18%), face-to-face contact with dealers/sellers (15%), logistics of test-driving (13%) and financial restrictions (9%).
“The results conducted at carsales this week show that Aussies are looking and buying cars right now amidst the current climate. Buyers are ready to swoop on the right car and great deals – there are a number of opportunities and now is the time to highlight the very best of what we can offer,” said carsales Executive Director, Dealer, Michael Holmes.
“There are many cost-effective steps dealers can take to reach these in-market buyers and carsales is here to help,” Holmes continued.
carsales has prepared a list of recommendations for car dealers to help adapt in this challenging period, and enhance the buying and selling experience.
Hygiene
Make customers aware of the steps your business is taking to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Assure consumers that the safety of customers is your number one priority and that business continues as usual, with the assistance of health authority guidelines.
More COVID-19 policy tips can be found here
Utilise RedBook Inspect to avoid face-to-face contact
With current travel restrictions in place and enhanced social distancing in local and wider areas, utilise inspection services like RedBook Inspect to value trade-in vehicles and deliver additional trust online. Staff can remain at the dealership and car buyers at home knowing professionals will undertake comprehensive reports.
Test driving
Remember the government ‘personal distance’ protocols to help reduce the risk of person-to-person infection. Consider taking vehicles to consumer homes or offices for test drives and consider absenting yourself or sitting in the back seat during the drive. It’s also important to reassure buyers that the vehicles are thoroughly cleaned pre and post drive, and don’t be afraid to share the hygiene steps taken (the more detail, the better).
And in case you need a hand with best practice when it comes to vehicle hygiene, here’s a link to the VACC’s guide for dealers.
And remember. Aussies are buying and looking online, right now!
Source: carsales.com.au, onsite survey, 19-20 March 2020, i=1661