Coronavirus pandemic is not only killing people but also it is killing India's economy, especially the automobile industry. In April 2020, for the first time all of India’s commercial auto manufacturers reported zero sales. Therefore, carmakers like Maruti Suzuki and Ford can’t wait any longer for customers to turn up at the dealership. Instead, they are offering home delivery.
India’s largest carmaker Maruti’s plants have been shut since March 25, and now they are slowly revving up again.
However 33% of the country is still in the red zone that includes most of India's top cities which is where majority of the demand comes from. Buyers can’t step out, hence, home delivery.
Customers can choose the model, colour and accessories online and the car will be delivered at home. “All staff visiting the customer's home will follow safety protocols – including wearing masks and carrying sanitizers. All cars will be fully disinfected before delivery. In case of delivery from showrooms, limited persons would be encouraged,” said the company’s statement.
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The company also said that this will be based on approvals from state governments, Maruti Suzuki dealerships have started to open and deliver the cars to customers in the waiting list. The zero sales in April was preceded by over a year of slump in car sales in India. Maker were being forced to up the emission standards to BS-VI by regulators and buyers were waiting for the new models to hit the street. The coronavirus lockdown has only prolonged the pain in the sector.
Maruti is not alone. Ford Motors too had launched contactless delivery of cars. The initiative called Dial-A-Ford will allow a prospective customer to book, test drive and even get the delivery of a new vehicle at his or her doorstep.