|
|
|
Written by Mark Brewster
|
|
Tuesday, 01 August 2006 |
In 2001 Mazda was the first Japanese car manufacturer to launch a complete built-to-order option over the Internet for the MX5 and S-Wagon. Because of the vast array of possible permutations of this special edition it is most easily identifiable via the sticker on the inside of the door shut or the badge on the nearside front wing.
The following is taken from the Mazda website:
Buying a new Mazda Roadster or S-WAGON just became easier, thanks to Mazda's new "Web-Tuned Factory" (http://www.w-tune.com) website.
Effective Friday, February 2, visitors to the website can:
- Read about and choose the features they want
- Get an estimated price
- And schedule an appointment with a sales representative at the dealer of their choice
And, using their computer, they can do all of this - and more - from the convenience of their home or office. After reaching a decision, a customer visits the Mazda dealer of his choice to complete the "paperwork," including contract authorization, registration and delivery appointment. The Mazda dealer then forward the customer's order to Mazda for production.
"Mazda is the first Japanese automaker to launch a 'build-to-order' (BTO) system using the Internet," says Mark Fields, President of Mazda Motor Corporation. "We're calling our build-to-order models web-tuned@Roadster and web-tuned@S-WAGON."
Through "Web-Tuned Factory," customers can:
- ACCESS INFORMATION CONVENIENTLY - Customers can pull down and read about features, specifications and prices.
- ARRANGE TRADE-IN INSPECTION AND CREDIT APPROVAL*- Once customers get an estimated price at the website, they receive an ID number automatically. This number enables a customer to get information on a trade-in inspection and credit approval on their own web page.
- GET UPDATES ON PRODUCTION AND SHIPPING DATES - After completing the purchase contract, customers can check the status of the production and shipping of their car on the website.
- DELETE PACKAGE ITEMS, REDUCING THE PRICE - The BTO system lowers distribution and sales transaction costs, enabling Mazda and its dealers to offer lower retail prices.
The "Web-Tuned Factory" website enables customers to create a model that isn't available at dealerships. There are 4,160 different combination on web-tuned@Roadster and 912 different combination on web-tuned@S-WAGON by selecting engine, transmission, exterior and interior color with customers preference.
For example, web-exclusive package models include:
- Mazda Roadster with an economical 1.6-liter engine and luxurious tan genuine leather seats
- Mazda Roadster with a luxurious VS model interior and exterior specifications and the smooth-handling RS model suspension
- Mazda Famillia S-WAGON with cost-effective 1.5-liter engine and the Sport 20 model exterior specifications
In addition, "web-tune@Roadster" gives Internet customers the chance to order the web-exclusive Sunburst Yellow color.** Or they can order a "web-tuned@S-WAGON" with a special seat fabric option.
The web-tuned@Roadster features Sony's Xplod®*** high-power audio system. Incorporating superior sonic imaging, this audio system creates a pleasant soundstage for occupants.
Also, Internet customers can add dealer option items to their models. Since the price of the customized model in Built-to-Order is lower thanks to reduced sales cost , customers can purchase a model with their preferable specification in more affordable price.
Mazda will tie up with Sony Style.Com Japan in this project on its EC site "Sony Style (http://www.jp.sonystyle.com/)." The company provides customizable product and Mazda jointly promote the fun of customization on the web site. "Sony Style" plans to set up special site for web-tuned@Roadster in the mid of February and show a popularity poll by user on the web-tuned@Roadsters which "Sony Style" customize.
Mazda's Internet marketing efforts brought about several achievements in 2000. Mazda became Japan's first automaker to provide customers with e-mail trade-in inspection and credit authorization services for the web-tuned@DEMIO, Mazda's first Internet-edition product introduced in January. Using a network of dealerships or a database on the Internet, the company began to help Internet customers find a new or used Mazda vehicle in July. Moreover, Mazda set up a permanent website to study customers' needs, where registered members can enjoy various membership services, such as providing information on car maintenance, outdoor activities, Mazda's giveaway campaigns, etc.
The idea for the Web-Tuned Factory site originated from a customer's suggestion. "Web-Tuned Factory is a revolutionary new business model," says Mark Fields, President of Mazda Motor Corporation. "We will continue to strive for the "new ideas that stir your emotions," to enhance the relationship with our customers, and to make customers' lives easier and more fun."
Notes:
* Available only on web-tuned@Roadster.
** Sunburst Yellow is the outer panel color exclusive to the web-tuned@Roadster models. Only first 450 customers who schedule a dealer-site meeting for their web-tuned@Roadster by March 19 are eligible for this special color.
*** Xplod® is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
IMPORTANT:
Please note that these Internet-exclusive models are available ONLY in Japan. From anywhere in the world, customers can access the contents of the Web tune Factory site or contact a dealer in Japan thorough Internet. However, Mazda and its dealers in Japan cannot accept through Web tune Factory a request involving any exporting action. We gratefully appreciate your understanding.
| Write comment |
You must be logged in to a comment. Please register if you do not have an account yet. |
 |
|
Last Updated ( Tuesday, 01 August 2006 )
|
|
