John Clark Motor Group is partnering with Smartdriverclub to become the first used car dealer in Scotland connect to customers via the business’ loyalty-boosting app.

Branded ‘JC Connect’, the new service is being provided free to all used car buyers from March 2017 and will equip customers with tools that will allow them to track mileages for business expenses, keep track of service and tax reminders and gain location services to assist breakdown and emergency assistance services.

In turn, Smartdriverclub will be able to access servicing and maintenance data, such as fault alerts, low battery and collisions to so that John Clark can engage with customers to arrange repairs, check-ups and replacement vehicles.

Customers can access their own data and tools via a smartphone app which collates data provided by a Smartdriverclub device installed into the vehicle’s OBD port.

“This partnership with Smartdriverclub means we can offer our customers all the peace of mind and money saving benefits that come with car connectivity, usually only enjoyed by new car owners,” said Clare Clark of John Clark Motor Group.

“Crucially, Smartdriverclub helps us bring customers back to the dealership for maintenance and repairs because we can take a proactive approach to managing our customer relationships.

“Through this partnership, we are embracing the latest technology to deliver an enhanced customer experience that boosts our aftersales offering and our bottom line.”

John Clark’s adoption of the Smartdriverclub platform in an effort to boost aftersales retention follows that of Doncaster-based Stoneacre Motor Group earlier this year.

Smartdriverclub chief executive, Penny Searles, said: “We are working closely with John Clark Motor Group to maximise the opportunities our connected car service can bring to their motor retail network.  

“Our proposition really fills the technology gap between new cars and used in a way that benefits both customer and dealer. 

“We are delighted forward thinking dealers such as John Clark are grabbing the opportunity to engage with customers in a new way, boosting retention by delivering an ongoing level of care even after they’ve left the showroom.”