Ford outlined its plans to roll out the agency model across Europe to dealers attending the Bring On Tomorrow Live event in Copenhagen, Denmark.
It said that research showed 77% of car-buyers prefer fixed prices, so that they know upfront how much they will pay, and for what.
Ford has already introduced transparent pricing in the Netherlands and plans to do the same across Europe.
Ford said it wanted to make discovering, testing, buying and owning its products simpler and more satisfying, starting with Ford electric vehicles (EVs).
The company is recreating the journey to EV ownership, with online access and touchpoints available every step of the way.
The new approach introduces online showrooms and virtual test. Customers will be able to personalise their vehicle handover, access charging, and arrange pick-up and delivery for servicing with a few clicks on their smartphone.
Ford said it was “on track” to deliver 10 new electric models in Europe by 2024, including the new E-Tourneo Courier 1 multi-activity vehicle unveiled in Copenhagen.
“We’re well on the way to becoming an electric passenger car brand by 2030, with a uniquely comprehensive line-up of vehicles already introduced and inspired by an understanding that EV customers see the world differently,” said Martin Sander, general manager, Ford Model e, Europe.
“Our vision is to make it easier and more appealing than ever for customers to discover, buy and own the right electric vehicle for them, whether switching to electric for the first time or already an experienced owner.”
According to Ford research shows 91% of customers prefer buying online if the process is seamless.
- A virtual experience for the new all-electric Ford Explorer 1 brought test drives into the digital age earlier this year.
- Customers will also be able to go online to book real-world test drives when the crossover arrives in showrooms later this year.
- Vehicles can be delivered to them, charged for a minimum 150 km/100 miles.
- Ford is tackling the single most frustrating factor for car-buyers according to the New Car Buyers Survey – uncertainty about when their new car will arrive
- Customers will be able to arrange delivery to them – an option of interest to 69% of younger car-buyers