TOKYO: The Japanese unit of German auto giant BMW has started selling its i3 electric models on Amazon.co.jp.
The high-end automaker’s small electric vehicle has been popular in European and North American markets, but BMW Japan wants to find more customers through the online retailer, a spokesperson said in Tokyo.
“We have 46 dealers [which sell the electric model] in Japan, but we hope this e-selling will cover the entire market more thoroughly,” the spokesperson said.
“This will widen the sales channel and improve convenience for customers,” he said.
“So many people are using the website. We would like to research potential customer groups who may be interested in our products.”
Two i3 models are available on Amazon.co.jp, a regular BMW i3 with a range of 229km and an i3 Range Extender that runs up to 300km on one battery charge, the company said.
Customers accustomed to completing their purchases in one click might, however, be disappointed.
After loading the car into their virtual shopping cart, potential buyers will have to wait for a phone call from BMW requesting the necessary documents.
