Volvo Car UK is supporting its customers during the coronavirus pandemic with actions to improve its online buying experience for new and used cars, prolong service intervals to delay non-essential work, and apply social distancing measures that protect those with urgent repair and maintenance needs.
Already one of the most comprehensive offered by any car manufacturer in the UK, Volvo’s online sales service now incorporates a live chat function for an even more personalised and convenient experience.
Designed from the outset with flexibility, security and convenience in mind, the platform now offers customers a complete way of buying a new car from the safety of their own home. Customers can now opt for contactless home delivery of their new car, in line with government guidelines.
Meanwhile, Volvo continues to keep its customers, including essential workers and emergency services moving during the crisis through its service and repair outlets, while it also minimises unnecessary retailer visits for those staying at home by extending servicing timelines. Strict hygiene and social distancing policies are in place throughout the company’s network.
Kristian Elvefors, Managing Director, Volvo Car UK, said: “At Volvo, everything we do starts with safety. While we are here for all of our customers and their varying requirements – whether buying a car online or keeping their existing vehicle running – we want to reassure them that they can interact with us safely at every step.”
Online sales: flexible, convenient and safe
For those buying a car online, flexibility is at the core of the service: customers can configure their car of choice from the entire Volvo range, from powertrain and equipment options to colours and accessories.
With their choice made, customers can select their preferred payment option. Most payment types are available, including personal contract purchase (PCP), conditional sale and cash purchase.
Customers can even part-exchange their old vehicle, apply for finance and finally sign their agreement via e-signature. It’s quick, too: the whole process can take as little as 20 minutes.
But while the process removes the need to visit a physical retail outlet, customers can still be assured of support where they need it, as their retailer will guide them through each step to help them find the best package for them. The new live chat function means even more support on hand for those who need it.
Used car buyers can also benefit from a safer, streamlined experience, with the Volvo Selekt approved used car scheme now including an electronic finance signature option for the first time1.
Keeping the essential workforce moving and ensuring safety for all
While many people are rightly staying at home, for others including the emergency services and key workers, their car is a lifeline during the pandemic. Many Volvo retailer workshops remain open to ensure these vehicles are kept safe and running.
For those who don’t need to drive during the lockdown period, Volvo is helping them avoid any unnecessary trips to their retailer with a three-month extension to servicing time limits. The same extension has also been applied to new car warranties2 and roadside assistance packages.
All servicing, maintenance and deliveries will be carried out using stringent social distancing and hygiene measures, and in line with government advice as far as possible. This includes the application of covers to steering wheels, gearlevers and seats, with keys handed over in sealed bags. First-time deliveries will include a brief video handover, with a detailed digital guide sent afterwards.
Customers can order a new car online today by visiting www.volvocars.co.uk/order-online.
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Notes to editors
1 Available at participating retailers only
2 Any Volvo car which was registered between 1 March and 30 June 2017 will automatically have its three-year/60,000-mile warranty extended for an additional three months from the original expiry date.
