ARKANSAS, Nov 17 (Future Headlines)- In a groundbreaking move, Amazon has unveiled plans to venture into the online vehicle sales market, commencing with Hyundai as its inaugural partner in this pioneering endeavor. The announcement was made at the 2023 LA Auto Show, signifying a significant shift in the automotive retail landscape.

Come next year, consumers will have the convenience of perusing and purchasing Hyundai vehicles directly on Amazon.com. This innovative approach allows buyers to customize their choices, selecting from various models, trims, colors, and features, all within the familiar interface of Amazon’s e-commerce platform. Following the purchase, customers can opt to collect their chosen vehicle from a local Hyundai dealer or have it delivered to their preferred location.

Jay Chang, Hyundai’s CEO, emphasized the historic nature of this partnership, highlighting the “incredible opportunities” it presents for expanding sales networks and facilitating the transition to electrification. Hyundai has been increasingly focusing on electric vehicles (EVs), with plans to introduce 31 EV models across the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands by 2030.

A notable feature set to be introduced in 2025 is hands-free Alexa integration for customers purchasing Hyundai’s next-generation vehicles. This integration will enable users to interact with Amazon’s virtual assistant seamlessly while on the road, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Moreover, as part of their collaboration, Hyundai has selected Amazon Web Services (AWS) as its preferred cloud provider. Leveraging AWS’s robust cloud infrastructure is aimed at improving the overall buying experience for consumers. This move aligns with Amazon’s strategy to utilize cloud technology not only for operational efficiency but also to introduce new features for drivers, all while minimizing associated costs.

Hyundai’s commitment to electric mobility has already borne fruit, with models like the IONIQ 5 setting a new US sales record in September. The IONIQ 6 has also earned recognition as a North American Car of the Year finalist. Furthermore, the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric received a significant upgrade this year, featuring a sleek facelift and increased range, further solidifying Hyundai’s position in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.

As Amazon ventures into online vehicle sales, it marks a significant paradigm shift, offering consumers a streamlined and familiar platform for purchasing their next car. This partnership with Hyundai signifies a strategic move for both companies, tapping into the growing demand for electric vehicles and reshaping the automotive retail landscape.

Reporting by Alireza Sabet; Editing by Sarah White