Groupe PSA has launched a Virtual Showroom service across its Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroen and DS brands that allows customers to buy cars online.

Buyers can receive live tours, interact with brand specialists and book test drives from the comfort of their own homes, via the new platform.

It follows the launch of similar services by Volkswagen Group brands Seat and Skoda, Renault and FCA Group.

The Virtual Showrooms are live now and will be open seven days a week, from 12pm to 8pm, with customers able to log on via the main brand websites. Each of the brands benefit from a separate studio space and trained product presenters to deliver information about each individual product range. 

David March, Groupe PSA network development director UK, said: “Online retail and remote selling is one of the big growth areas for the automotive retail sector. With Virtual Showroom, we are bringing the same tailored showroom experience our customers are used to when visiting our physical Retail sites to the comfort of their home.

“At Groupe PSA we’re keen to position ourselves at the forefront of digital excellence. We are adapting our business to respond not only to the current crisis but also for longer term trends and shifts in consumer behaviours. 

“Increasingly, web based viewing and brand interaction is becoming an expectation rather than exception and we’re positioned well across all our brands to meet these needs”

The Group believes many car buyers may still feel apprehensive about visiting retailers, following the Covid-19 pandemic, therefore this new service should provide peace of mind by allowing customers to research and buy a car from their home.

The Virtual Showroom will feature PSA Groupe electric, plug-in hybrid, petrol and diesel models including the new Peugeot e-2008 SUV, Vauxhall Corsa-e, Citroen C5 Aircross and DS 3 Crossback E-Tense.

Customers who wish to lease their vehicle can apply through PSA Finance or Vauxhall Finance, and arrange their deposit and payment schedule from home, before opting for Remote Handover at the door, or Click and Collect from a local Retailer.

Strict processes are followed at the Virtual Showrooms to protect staff, and all home deliveries will be conducted while observing safe hygiene and social distancing guidelines, with personal protective equipment provided to drivers.