Kia launches Live Stream Showroom to help customers buy new cars online

Kia Motors has announced the launch of‘LiveStream Showroom’, a new online platform that offerscustomers access to personalised virtual viewings in select Kiadealerships.Thenew platformwas introduced initially in Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, and is being expanded throughout the Middle Eastand Africa in countries such as Kuwait,Bahrainand South Africawith the aim of a global implementation in the future.

In India, Kia Motors already offers a virtual showroom experience for its customers to choose their preferred cars from the comfort of their homes. The carmaker's sister concern Hyundai Motors too has its 'Click To Buy' digital platform to help customers buy a car by click of a button.

Live Stream Showroom offers customersalive videosessionwith Kiadealers for a digital experience tailored to meet their individual needs. Customers will receive one-on-one consultation with live responses to questions, and explore the design and features of their chosen model and see demonstrations of new technology and functionality on demand.

The new platform prioritises customer convenience and ensures a seamless digital experience that is same as a physical showroom visit. This commitment toward customer value-led innovations comes as the company establishes its leadership position in the future automotive industry under its 'Plan S' strategy.

“LiveStream Showroomdemonstrates our continuedcommitment totailorthe car-buyingjourney to the demands ofour customerswithvirtualviewings," said Artur Martins, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Customer Experience Division at Kia. “By launching this new platform,we aim to stay ahead of the curve indigital sales and marketingin this time of transition."

Recent consumer demand shows strong indication that customers are looking to take more of the car-buying journey online.Recent data collected by Kia shows that83 percent of consumers prefer to carry out product research online before making a purchase,while47 percent of consumersexpressed interest in using online platforms for future purchases.