Market Scan, GM to Better Car Buying

Market Scan Information Systems Inc. announced this month it would integrate its software with General Motors Co.’s “Shop. Click. Drive” digital retailing platform.Financial terms of the deal between Market Scan in Camarillo and GM in Detroit were not disclosed.

The “Shop. Click. Drive” platform allows customers a simple way to buy or lease a Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick or GMC vehicle online. It provides consumers the ability to model payments, personalize their vehicles, request a test drive, apply for credit, get a value for their trade, and other services online, according to a release from Market Scan.

“And at the end of the simple, online process, buyers can have their vehicle prepped and delivered to their home through participating dealers, where available,” the release said.

The “Shop. Click. Drive” platform will be powered by Market Scan’s mScanAPI software, a database and payment calculation technology for the automotive industry.Market Scan was founded in 1988 by father-son team Russell and Rusty West and evolved to become a leading provider of technology and analytical solutions for the various stake holders in the automotive industry, according to the company website.

Rusty West, who serves as president, said the firm was excited to work with the car company and honored that GM recognized its data, technology and products can help enhance the “Shop. Click. Drive” shopping experience.

“We commend GM for having the insight and vision to provide their dealerships and consumers with solutions that usher in a new era in automotive retail,” West said in a statement.

Ed Vogt, director of e-commerce for GM’s customer experience organization, said the carmaker has been improving the platform to make it the best in the industry.“Integrating Market Scan’s mScanAPI solution will help us deliver payment and pricing information available to our customers and give our dealers an even more powerful tool to enhance the shopping, purchasing and delivery experience,” Vogt said in a statement.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic showcases the convenience and importance of “Shop. Click. Drive,” with dealers reporting a nearly five-fold increase in leads this year from the platform, Market Scan said, adding that the car company has consistently cited the online tool as a key to its strong results in the marketplace.

“Today’s consumers expect immediacy, transparency, consistency, selection, and pricing and payment accuracy,” West said in his statement. “Similarly, dealerships are desperate for the tools and solutions to help them deliver such an experience. The opportunity to collaborate and work with GM and to bring real improvements for dealers and consumers is extremely exciting for us.”