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Over the next few years, test drives will be very important due to the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). As many drivers will be testing an EV for the first time, it is imperative that the driver has the best test drive experience possible in order to make an informed decision about their purchase. 

What’s more, motorists tend to know less about this new type of vehicle, so are more likely to want to test one before they buy. 

We recently ran a survey of more than 2,000 UK motorists and found that the majority prefer unaccompanied test drives to those conducted with a salesperson present. 

Seven in ten drivers claimed that they prefer unaccompanied test drives because it allows them to focus on the car without being distracted by the salesperson. Other reasons included:

  • It would make the test drive experience less awkward 
  • It would allow the driver to test the car’s performance more thoroughly
  • The driver would feel under less pressure 
  • It would enable the driver to maintain social distancing measures 

The advantages to the driver are clear, but how do unaccompanied test drives benefit dealerships? Read on to find out. 

How unaccompanied test drives can be beneficial for dealerships

There are numerous positive benefits to offering unaccompanied test drives from your dealership. 

The first of these is being able to offer a great customer experience; customers who are able to take an extended, unaccompanied test drive are more likely to look favourably on a dealer than they would if they were only allowed a short test drive with a salesperson present. This is because it would allow them to take the time they need to make a purchase decision without any pressure.

Offering unaccompanied test drives can also boost your customer retention rates, as if a customer had a positive test drive experience with you previously, they will keep your dealership in mind for the next time they purchase a vehicle and may also recommend you to their family and friends. 

Find out how unaccompanied test drives are shaping the future of vehicle sales

Insurance for unaccompanied test drives

To offer unaccompanied test drives at your dealership, it’s important to have the right cover in place. All cars must be covered by insurance and have a valid MOT in place.

According to the official DVLA statement, trade plates are owned by the Secretary of State and dealerships must take all necessary precautions to ensure that they are not stolen during a test drive. In order for a customer to drive a car with trade plates without supervision from a sales representative, the vehicle must be insured.

 

To discover more about how we can support you with unaccompanied test drives, request a call back by filling out the form below.

Car dealer and customers in showroom pexels-anthony-shkraba