ONLINE shopping giant Amazon is preparing to bring its car sales platform to the UK by the end of 2026, according to reports.
Suppliers are reportedly already being ‘lined up’ to help Amazon Autos establish operations on these shores.
Amazon Autos director Steve Johnson told Car Dealer Magazine it’s a matter of “not if, but when” the company will launch in Great Britain – the first of five European markets the retail giant plans to target as part of its automotive expansion.
He said: “We are exploring the UK but we have so much to do here. We are really focussed on the US, but the UK is interesting despite the complex laws and regulations there.”
Sources told the publication that Amazon’s UK move is “imminent”, with ongoing discussions involving potential partners who can assist with the launch.
Meetings exploring ways to integrate financing, warranties and other financial products are understood to have already taken place.
Customers will have access to new and used vehicles, as well as extras including warranties and finance quotes through the new site.
Once a customer completes their online selections, Amazon Autos will pass them on to the dealer with a fully structured deal.
In the US, Amazon Autos sells new and used models online, offering vehicles from major manufacturers including Hyundai, Mazda, Subaru, Ford and Kia, with more expected soon.
In Los Angeles, customers are already able to sell their cars to dealers through Amazon, with Johnson saying the company is “evaluating expansion opportunities for this”.
Amazon also offers free advertising for dealers in the States and takes no commission on transactions, having launched there just over a year ago, with Johnson saying the “business model is built around advertising”.
He continued: “Today, we are waiving subscription fees as we continue building the marketplace. That may not last forever, but our focus remains on growing the ecosystem.”
Johnson also emphasised that Amazon Autos allows dealerships full autonomy over their listings and pricing decisions.
After we reached out for comment, Amazon UK told The Sun: “We’re focused on expanding Amazon Autos in the United States, where we’re continuously adding new dealers, vehicle inventory, and features for customers.
“While we’re always exploring opportunities to serve customers in new regions, we do not have anything more to share at this time.”
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