Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has teamed up with Rockar to launch a 'next generation omni-channel car buying experience' in the form of Mitsubishi Buy Online.

The Japanese brand said that the flexible new online platform allows customers to choose how much of the car buying process they complete online, with an end-to-end offering available which will see cars delivered to a customer's door and logistics and remarketing partner BCA facilitating part-exchanges.

Test drives can be booked at dealerships before customers finalise their purchase and Mitsubishi said that Mitsubishi Buy Online was also “unique in that it has been designed from the outset to connect customers and the brand’s dealerships online throughout the buying process”.

A Mitsubishi spokesman told AM that the brand's UK retail network woiuld be involved in all sales, completing the hand-over process in instances where a consumer opts for an end-to-end online purchase.

Simon Dixon, founder of Rockar, said: “Working in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, we have created a next generation omni-channel car buying experience that is quite different to what has been done before. 

“In an industry first, Mitsubishi Buy Online builds on the strength of the existing retailer network to deliver an on-demand, flexible experience for customers.”

Customers can enter or leave their Mitsubishi Buy Online experience at any point.

They have the option to research the car online and complete at their chosen dealership, complete their entire purchase online or research a car at their dealership and complete online.

Customers can collect their new Mitsubishi from their chosen dealership or, where available, choose home delivery, Mitsubishi said.

The brand said that the Buy Online platform responds to the ever-growing number of consumers who would consider buying a vehicle via the internet.

A recent survey by leading automotive industry expert CAP Gemini showed this to be as high as 75%.

The platform gives customers earlier visibility of finance options and delivery times together with significantly more accurate and future-proof trade-in valuations, Mitsubishi said.

Fully integrated with the main Mitsubishi Motors in the UK website at www.buy.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk, Mitsubishi Buy Online allows customers to access the Mitsubishi showroom in their own home.

The Mitsubishi Buy Online experience begins with the user setting their budget and choosing their preferable finance option from PCP, HP, cash or Business Contract Hire.

Customers can then fully configure any of the vehicles with their choice of paint, trim, options and accessories.

Lance Bradley, managing director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said that while the vast majority of car buyers enjoy the experience of a traditional showroom environment, there was a “marked growth in those that desire the convenience of an internet transaction when considering their new car”.

He added: “Mitsubishi Buy Online provides a highly flexible, comprehensive solution that will enhance our retail operation and provide customers with even greater choice and transparency.”