Autobytel.com, a global leader in automotive e-commerce, has announced that it has partnered with EyeVelocity, Source One Marketing, and automotive aftermarket accessory manufacturers LoJack, Katzkin Leather Inc., Saddleman and Steel Horse, to visually integrate the purchase of aftermarket products into the Autobytel.com consumer car-buying process.
Powered by EyeVelocity’s “Internet Accessorizor” technology, the Autobytel.com Aftermarket Program will enable Internet car buyers to view, customize and request vehicle-specific aftermarket products from a broad range of product categories during the online vehicle purchase request process. After confirming the details of the vehicle purchase request and aftermarket product selection with the consumer, the dealer can either fulfill aftermarket product sales using a manufacturer direct-to-dealer distribution network (e.g., LoJack and Katzkin Leather) or through Source One Marketing, a national online fulfillment system that will process ordering, shipping and billing for the over 5,000 Autobytel.com Accredited Dealers.
According to Mark Lorimer, Autobytel's president and CEO, the Autobytel.com Aftermarket Program allows for a more consolidated buying experience for consumers, additional profit margin for Autobytel.com dealerships, and tremendous potential for incremental product sales for the affiliated Aftermarket partners.
“Once again, Autobytel.com is taking the lead in making the car-purchasing process even more consumer friendly by allowing consumers to view their vehicle of choice, complete with desired aftermarket accessories and pricing," Lorimer said. "At the same time, we continue to create improved efficiencies and incremental product sales for our dealers. EyeVelocity and Source One Marketing were chosen as partners in this program for their expertise and tremendous knowledge and experience in the aftermarket industry.”
“EyeVelocity is proud to be a partner in this strategic initiative and we believe Autobytel.com’s Aftermarket Program is uniquely positioned to redistribute a big slice of the $20-billion-plus aftermarket industry to its network of dealers,” said Scott Waldron, Executive Vice President, EyeVelocity.
According to a 2000 SEMA Market Study, retail sales of performance parts and accessories reached $23.24 billion in 1999, an increase of 87.8% since 1990.
