Robots Selling Cars

Robots in Showrooms

Imagine walking into a car dealership and instead of a human salesperson, you’re greeted by a robot. This isn’t a scene from a sci-fi movie; it’s reality thanks to the Chinese automaker Chery. They rolled out their humanoid robot, Mornine, at the Shanghai Auto Show, pushing the boundaries of how cars might be sold in the future. This shiny, $60,000 robot can serve drinks and launch into a detailed rundown of car specs without missing a beat. It’s a tech-savvy move aimed at enhancing customer experience and nudging dealership visits into the novelty realm.

Mornine’s Capabilities

The Mornine robot isn’t just a static display piece. It’s equipped to move, albeit a little awkwardly, talk, and engage with potential car buyers in the showroom. It’s not just its ability to answer queries but also its unique blend of AI technology, known as DeepSeek, which adds a layer of intelligence to its interactions. While this might sound like something from “The Jetsons,” Mornine is already in action at a dealership in Malaysia, showcasing Chery’s commitment to integrating robotics into automotive sales.

Cost and Delivery

For those dealerships considering buying into this robotic revolution, each unit costs approximately $57,000. However, not every dealer is jumping on this bandwagon just yet. Many are hesitant, awaiting more clarity on the final costs before committing. Chery plans to hit the market with 220 robotic entities this year, which is quite the introduction into automotive tech.

Different Driving Experience

The introduction of Mornine doesn’t alter the driving experience itself but certainly changes the buying experience. Picture this: driving a new car and having received all specifications through a chat with a futuristic humanoid. Unlike talking to a human salesperson who might subtly upsell, a robot presents data precisely and without bias, making it a unique comparison to human interaction. It’s a shift akin to transitioning from a stick shift to an automatic; it may feel less engaging but undeniably more efficient in delivering key information.

A Glimpse Into the Future

Chery isn’t stopping here. They are aiming to expand their robotics division, showcased with gadgets like a robot dog for those who prefer a pet without the cleanup. This venture reflects a broader trend where automotive giants, such as Tesla and Hyundai, are leaning into robotics. As more manufacturers put robots to work, from building to selling cars, expect car plants and showrooms to evolve drastically.

This shift signifies a future where robots could simplify many roles, from assembling vehicles to potentially closing the sale. While this might sound surreal now, it’s an inevitable advance in the age of AI, steadily eliminating human errors in dealerships while offering consistent, optimal customer engagement.