Dacia goes online with auto sales

FRANKFURT: Automaker Dacia, a unit of French giant Renault, is to start testing sales of its cars online later this week, initially in Italy, but later in other European countries, a spokesman told AFP.

Until now, customers have been only able to access information and configure the desired model via Dacia's website, but not actually purchase vehicles online.

But now, "with around 15 clicks, they will now be able to finalise their transaction," Renault marketing chief Steve Norman said.

Customers must first open an account with a payment of 500 euros, enter the required information and choose the dealer where they want to collect their car and pay the remaining amount.

Sale prices will be identical to those offered in the group's dealership networks.

Initially, only two versions of its Sandero model will be available for purchase online, the spokesman said.

Testing in Italy will take between six months and a year, before online purchasing will then eventually be extended to other countries.

There are no plans at present, however, to sell Renault-brand cars online, Norman said.

Copyright AFP (Agence France-Presse), 2011