Dotcoms to die, says Ford boss

By THIS IS MONEY
Updated:

 

Most internet car companies will 'bloom and die', according to Ford's UK chief executive Ian McAllister.

He defended bricks and mortar car retailers against the rise of internet car companies yesterday forecasting the death of most of the dotcoms. He said: 'I don't see the internet replacing the dealer. I am not sure I would press a button to buy a car. Buying a car is personal and expensive. I like to look someone in the eye when I shake their hand.'

Mr McAllister said the up coming European directive on distance selling which will give consumers the right to return goods within seven days, would act as a 'real stopper' to operations like Virgin Cars and other operators.

Most internet sites buy cars from Europe and do not include car trade ins. Mr McAllister said this would act as a brake on internet sales.

Virgin has already sold 200 cars since launching last month. It believes there is a major market for sales over the web.

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