How mobile applications are changing the way we buy cars.

Technology continues to transform the way consumers make buying decisions. Automobile purchases are no different.

The Google Play site for Android applications has more than 1000 applications - both free and paid - that focus on the automobile segment. Most applications are from the car manufacturers themselves, while others are from rental companies. But there is a growing segment of applications that focus on giving an independent review of automobiles.

While searching for car review applications on android I came across an interesting application called ‘Car Experts India’. The application has a rating of 4.6 and has more than 10,000 downloads.

The application is a brain child of Kanav Garg, who created it to keep himself updated on the happenings in the Auto Industry while he was on the move. “I used to go through the websites I liked keeping myself updated about the automobile world. But when you are on a move, you have nothing to access the information from” he says.

As a result of that need, Car Experts India was created where consumers in India could find any car related information on a mobile device. The site provides Ex-showroom price for every city where a dealer exists, technical specifications, car features, gallery and all the latest car news and reviews.

Many auto applications also exist for Apple’s ios. One of the applications recently launched is a venture between Mitsubishi and Agero. Agero, the roadside assistance provider working with Mitsubishi, gives drivers a network of 30,000 licensed towing service locations nationwide. Instead of needing to pay a fee for service, Mitsubishi owners can just use their iPhone to arrange a tow, have their battery jumped, flat tire changed, or other roadside emergencies. 

Others like car rental companies Avis are also utilizing a mobile app to help the consumers find the cheapest rentals. Insurance provider Allstate also has a request roadside service for the iPhone, and one does not need to be an Allstate customer. Nissan has introduced the Leaf mobile application for the iOs which can help the user check the battery life of the car.

So what is the profile of an automobile mobile application user?

Research shows that most of the users use applications that increase their convenience while driving. For example voice based text commands and applications giving directions for a particular destination. The second are the bargain hunters who look for cheaper deals on car rentals and purchases. The third category users are auto enthusiasts. They use the applications to keep themselves updated about the happenings in the industry.

 But the Indian consumer is a little different.

“We thoroughly studied consumer behavior specific to using automobile apps. What we have noticed is that most people look for general information on cars so that they can keep themselves updated. They can be also called as car lovers and enthusiasts. Secondly, you will find people those who want to buy cars and want exact, up to date, in-depth detail and correct information on cars. Buying a car in India is different as compared to the foreign culture as once a person buys a car, he at least keeps it for 3 to 4 years so it’s more of like a festival for them. Due to this, the consumer likes to get information in a well detailed manner. Now, as nobody has time to access systems for long hours and wants mobility so they can do all this research through our app while travelling, waiting for someone and anytime they feel at ease,” explains Kanav, when questioned on the behavior of the Indian auto buyers.

So how has the automobile industry reacted to the sudden growth of independent applications with reviews on their cars?

“Mostly positively “ says Kanav “The auto industry is aware of this segment and is putting their best foot forward to collaborate with us so that they can get high visibility and increase their chances of getting higher sales figures.” 

While the applications may face challenges from websites, it is only a matter of time as consumers flock to mobile applications on smart phones to make a more informed buying decision. 

To see all the automobile applications on Android please visit here