Škoda customers can now engage in an online consultation and experience the brand’s latest models via its website.

“Customers are seeking convenience and excellent service when looking to make a car purchase, and with more and more people doing their research online ahead of going to the showroom, the Škoda Live Tour brings the retail experience to a digital world that is easily accessible”, says Jonathan Harris, Škoda new retail concepts manager.”

The company believes this is an important step towards the future of automotive retail and how it interacts with customers.

Once a dialogue is open in the online environment, customers are then encouraged to visit a Škoda retailer and test drive our models.

Škoda Live Tour utilises Whisbi’s cloud-based conversational technology to bring the real retailer experience online. Through the use of live video streaming, the customer is instantly connected to the Live Tour and a Product Host who uses a mix of smartphone camera and static cameras to showcase the details of the cars.

The consultant can present the exterior and interior of the vehicle, demonstrate ‘Simply Clever’ features, explain details such as the infotainment-system menu, and answer specific questions. If the potential buyer is interested in the boot, the product host can take them to the rear by mobile camera and demonstrate the loading space live.

During the conversation in the Live Tour, the product host can assist the customer in the online configuration of their desired vehicle and the search for a local Škoda retailer. The product host can also request an appointment for a test drive in person at the customer’s retailer of choice. The customer can input text via a chat window, for example, to confirm their name, address or email address.