With the number of locally-transmitted COVID-19 cases on the rise, new restrictions are being put in place to ensure the safety of all. However, sgCarMart's sweep across the various authorised dealers has revealed that showrooms will still remain open during this period.
For a start, with social gatherings now recommended to be limited to not more than two per day, even for visits to a public place, those thinking of heading to a showroom are strongly recommended to do so alone. Test drives at Nissan, for example, are now being strictly done with only one customer and one sales consultant in the vehicle. For brands under the Cycle & Carriage group, showroom test drives will be conducted on remote basis, meaning customers drive on their own while connected with the sales consultant on the line.
The majority of local authorised dealers here are thus strongly recommending that customers pre-arrange their visits and test drives, so as to avoid long queues at their respective showrooms. Customers are also encouraged to utilise e-commerce platforms, with brands like Citroen and Mitsubishi offering online digital consultations. Some brands, including Mazda, also have virtual showrooms that you can visit from the comfort of your home, and provide online contactless purchase as well.
If you're looking to test drive a new car, most authorised dealers are already offering concierge test drives and will continue to do so, including those for Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Kia, and Suzuki. With the test drive car delivered to a place of your choosing, opting for a concierge test drive will minimise your contact with others as compared to heading down to a showroom.
You'll also be glad to note that in response to sgCarMart's enquiries, made on 14 May 2021, the LTA has stated that there are currently no planned changes to the COE bidding schedule.
