Hyundai and Amazon have announced a strategic partnership that will enable customers to buy vehicles online in the US and improve business operations by moving to Amazon Web Services (AWS), the cloud computing unit of Amazon.
Amazon said that in 2024 automotive dealers will be able to sell vehicles through Amazon’s US store and that Hyundai will be the first brand available for customers to purchase. According to the e-commerce company the online option will make it easy for customers to buy a new vehicle and either pick it up or have it delivered to a local dealership at a time of their convenience.
Car buyers will be able to search Amazon for available vehicles in their area based on a range of preferences, including model, trim, colour and features. Having chosen their preferred car the customer can then check out online with their chosen payment and financing options, according to the company.
“Amazon is the ideal partner to help realise our vision of progress for humanity, including improving how people and goods move more efficiently and sustainably,” said president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Jaehoon Chang. “Hyundai is the first automotive company available for full end-to-end transactions in Amazon’s US store and this is another example of how we continue to push for ways to elevate the customer journey together with our outstanding retail partners.”
The carmaker is also moving its manufacturing and supply chain applications to the cloud with AWS, which Amazon said would help Hyundai optimise production and minimise cost, while improving security and resiliency to disruption. Hyundai said that it would use AWS as its preferred cloud provider to accelerate its digital transformation, from computing, storage, database management and analytics to generative AI and Internet of Things.
In addition, the two companies have designed and implemented a Master Builder Training and Certification programme to train Hyundai engineers in critical cloud skills.
Hyundai is not the first carmaker to turn to AWS cloud computing to streamline the supply chain and improve visibility. For example, VW turned to AWS to automate manufacturing and logistics processes across its network, and BMW has jointly developed applications in the cloud using the AWS platform to increase efficiency, performance and sustainability across the lifecycle of its vehicles, from design to aftersales services.
The wide-ranging strategic agreement between Hyundai and Amazon also covers in-vehicle services such as using Alexa to play music, podcasts, or check on traffic updates, as well as controlling smart home features from the road.
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