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RMI to launch new mobile car management app

Sep 13, 2018 Aftermarket, Automotive, Car servicing, workshop, mobile, app, car buyer, dealership,



Over the past few years, customers have become more empowered than ever before, across all industries and sectors. It is a trend that has changed the way the automotive industry works too – and according to Jakkie Olivier of the RMI, it’s a major drive towards innovation. 

 

One such area is in the new car purchase process. With car buyers able to access extensive online research and seek out peer-to-peer recommendations, research indicates that many South Africans are willing to conduct the entire car-purchase process online, including paying a deposit and arranging finance.

 

“Dealerships are and will continue to be an absolute necessity in the new vehicle buying process, however the role they play may be slightly different to what it has been to date,” says National Automobile Dealers’ Association’s (NADA’s) National Chairperson, Mark Dommisse.

 

“Motor vehicles are highly regulated products that require stringent FICA regulations when being purchased. In addition, licensing, insurance, financing and periodic servicing and/or maintenance are specialist areas needing expertise and a lot of investment by the dealership owner,” continues Dommisse. Various laws and regulations govern the sale, financing and servicing of new motor vehicles, which are usually carried out via a network of approved dealerships.

 

Technology plays a significant role in improving the customer experience during the aftermarket and servicing experience too. Websites and mobile apps can assist,  offering a more connected and customised experience, with mobile apps offering the ability to streamline car care. 

 

In fact, many car manufacturers have developed smartphone apps that allow consumers to stay connected to their vehicles at all times, even if they’re in another city. Using these apps, consumers can start their vehicles remotely, set the climate control, view service diagnostics, set travel limitations and a host of other services.

 

The majority of SA consumers drive older vehicles that are not equipped with this technology. “Smartphone use is on the rise in South Africa, and there is already a selection of mobile apps that help consumers with their car management. There are three factors important to today’s empowered consumer: Time, convenience and cost. If the automotive industry keeps these three requirements top of mind, they can become an indispensable ‘passenger’ in South Africa’s vehicles,” advises Olivier.

 

RMI says that it will soon launch a mobile app of its own, aimed at connecting consumers to accredited RMI members. App users will also have easy access to specials offered by RMI members in their area. From a customer service point of view, RMI members will be able to use the app for training purposes, to connect with other RMI members and to access up-to-date RMI news.

 

 

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