Nissan, the Japanese auto giant, is set to double its number of dealerships that don't sell cars. Instead, these locations provide a space for customers to explore Nissan's product offerings, learn about the brand, and experience virtual test drives. The move is seen as a strategic response to changing purchasing behaviors of Japanese consumers and the increasing digitalization of the auto industry. The date for executing this change has not been specified yet.
The trend of "no car sales" dealerships is gaining popularity in Japan, reflecting the country’s advanced digital infrastructure and customers’ growing acceptance of online purchasing methods. This strategy seems to harmonize well with Japan's focus on sustainability and efficient use of resources. The concept aligns with the societal value of customer education and informed decision-making.
In the US and EU, while online car sales have been increasing, the conventional dealership model remains quite popular. Dealerships in these regions are typically large, standalone establishments with vast lots of cars for customers to view and test-drive. However, similar trends for digital sales are starting to emerge.