Aiways, the Shanghai-based personal mobility provider, is to start taking online orders for its U5 all-electric SUV from European consumers from the end of April.
Secured via a small deposit, the U5 will be offered exclusively via a direct-to-customer sales model, and not retailed or leased through traditional dealerships. European pre-sale markets and the required deposit amount will be announced by Aiways in April.
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Alexander Klose, Executive VP Overseas Operation at Aiways, commented: “Online pre-sales represents the next important phase of Aiways’ entry into the European market. It’s our promise to customers that for only a small deposit they can be among the first to receive the U5 and start enjoying the benefits of a long-range, high-tech and well equipped electric SUV.”
Meanwhile, Aiways has re-started production of the U5 at its manufacturing facility in Shangrao, China, following the interruption caused by COVID-19 (coronavirus). Production of the European U5 will start in July, with the first deliveries now slated for August 2020.
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Making the most of its agility and flexibility as a startup, Aiways is adapting its pre-sale marketing activities to better suit the enforced period of ‘contactless’ retail because of COVID-19.
By introducing new online platforms and seamless digital experiences, Aiways will give European car buyers the confidence to order the U5 online. More details to follow soon.