Online auto seller wants to sign on 250 dealers

AUTOWEB Sdn Bhd, the operator of the country’s largest online auto channel, is targeting to sign on 250 used car dealers and all auto franchises by the end of next year.

According to Autoweb managing director James Lim, the company, which has jointly developed the web site Autoworld.com.my with Microsoft Malaysia, has todate signed on 83 auto dealers selling 1400 cars.

“We also offer a cheaper car financing rate for users of the web site through Hong Leong Credit,” Lim said at the launch of the website and the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Microsoft Malaysia for the development of the channel in Subang Jaya yesterday.

Energy, Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Leo Moggie launched the website and witnessed the signing of the MoU.

Autoweb is a strategic partnership between Interbase Holdings and Heritage Vest, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hong Leong Credit Bhd.

In late 1998, Autoweb began developing Autoworld.com.my which has since became the country’s largest auto website.

“A nominal charge will be imposed on those who advertise their cars for sale on the web site because we are looking for more business volume,” Lim said.

Autoweb general manager Richard Tan said although there were more auto dealers advertising in the website at 80% compared to the general public, the ratio was expected to reach 50-50 in the near future.

Earlier when launching the website, Moggie said that businessmen on the use of the Internet if they want to stay ahead of competition.

“Although businessmen are aware of the benefits of e-commerce, lack of technical expertise and full range capabilities to set up an on-line operation still pose as main barriers for business to venture into e-commerce,” Moggie said.

“A change in mindset is also necessary as many businesses still have self-doubt and do not see or understand the potential of conducting business on the Net.”