Mini Australia moves to online ordering

The system – which has been adopted for the brand’s new Countryman Stafford Edition SUV – allows customers to option vehicles and pay a deposit online with the dealer of their choice.

“[The online ordering system] arrives at an appropriate time with numerous Mini enthusiasts working from home,” Mini Australia said in a statement.

“Customers can customise their favourite options and make an online deposit with the Mini dealer of their choice without leaving the comfort of home.”

Mini has stated the online service may be extended to include other models pending its success with the Stafford Edition Countryman.

“MINI first started developing an online deposit process in 2018 to enhance digital touch points to support our dealer network," said a MINI spokesperson.

"In light of the current social distancing measures, it coincided perfectly with the introduction of this new online deposit customer centric feature. We will assess its viability with the new Stafford Edition and decide whether we extend this capability to our other models,”

Online ordering has been adopted by other car brands as a method of contactless purchasing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier this month, Volkswagen Australia added its entire lineup to its online ordering system.

Ford Australia and the Australian Automotive Dealers Association told Drive recently they have seen an increase in customers willing to complete part of a transaction online, but believe the dealer process will remain fundamental to purchasing a car.