How to Order Car Vending Machine In Japan: Step-by-Step
Have you ever heard of a vending machine that doesn’t dispense snacks or drinks but luxury cars?
Well, believe it or not, they have exactly that in Japan!
Car vending machines have become quite the trend in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Car Vending Machine In Japan
Car vending machines are a recent addition to Japan’s retail landscape, with the first one introduced in 2017 by Autobahn Motors.
These innovative vending machines provide customers with a unique and convenient way to buy cars, with a wide selection of models available for immediate purchase and pickup.
Car vending machines have gained popularity in Japan due to the country’s densely populated and urbanized cities, which pose challenges for traditional car dealerships.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards online and contactless car sales, making car vending machines a practical and attractive option for customers.
How Do Car Vending Machines Work in Japan?
Japanese Vending machines have emerged as a new and innovative way of purchasing cars in Japan, particularly in densely populated urban areas with limited space.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to how car vending machines work in Japan.
Step 1: Choose your car
Customers first browse the available cars on a touchscreen display outside the vending machine. The selection typically includes various car models, colors, and prices, allowing customers to choose the one that suits their needs.
Step 2: Make payment
Once the customer has made a selection, they can proceed to make payment using a credit card or other payment methods such as cash or bank transfer.
Step 3: Verification
After payment, the vending machine verifies the payment, and the car is prepared for delivery. This process usually takes only a few minutes.
Step 4: Delivery
Once verification is complete, the vending machine uses an automated lift system to deliver the car to the customer. The lift system brings the car down from the storage area and places it on the ground floor, where the customer can drive it away.
Overall, car vending machines offer a convenient and hassle-free way of buying cars in Japan.
How Much Does it Cost to Buy a Car From a Vending Machine in Japan?
Pricing for purchasing a car from a vending machine in Japan can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Generally, prices range from around ¥3 million (USD 27,000) to ¥100 million (USD 910,000) or more for luxury vehicles.
The price of the car is displayed on a large screen next to the vending machine, and customers can browse available cars and their prices on the Autobahn Motors website before visiting the vending machine.
It’s important to note that while the prices may be competitive, customers will not have the option to negotiate prices as they would at a traditional dealership.
Buyers must factor in additional costs such as registration fees, taxes, and insurance when purchasing a car from a vending machine.
How many car vending machines are there in Japan?
According to recent reports, a limited number of car vending machines are currently operating in Japan.
Currently, Autobahn Motors operates two locations – one in Osaka and the other in Tokyo.
Meanwhile, online used car dealer and rental service provider ORIX Auto Corporation has also jumped on the trend and has set up its car vending machine in the Kanagawa prefecture.
Despite the limited number of car vending machines, the trend is still gaining momentum and may see more companies adopting the concept.
It is worth noting that while car vending machines offer convenience and unique experiences for customers, they are still a relatively niche market in Japan compared to traditional car dealerships.
Can Anyone Buy a Car from a Vending Machine in Japan?
In Japan, anyone who meets the requirements can purchase a car from a vending machine.
The process is relatively straightforward, with customers needing to provide
- Proof of identity,
- Valid driver’s license, and
- Payment for the car.
However, as with traditional car dealerships, customers must meet certain criteria to obtain financing for their purchase.
This includes having
- Good credit score,
- Proof of income, and
- Other necessary documents.
Additionally, customers will need to meet any other specific requirements the car vending machine company sets, such as age restrictions or residency status.
What Types of Cars are Available in Japanese Car Vending Machines
Car vending machines in Japan offer a variety of models from different manufacturers and popular models such as
- Toyota,
- Honda,
- Nissan,
- Mercedes-Benz
- BMW, etc
The cars available for purchase are typically new or almost new, with low mileage and in excellent condition.
Some car vending machines may specialize in certain types of vehicles, such as sports cars or electric cars.
The selection of cars may also vary depending on the location of the vending machine.
For example, a vending machine located in a rural area may have a larger selection of pickup trucks and SUVs, while one in a city center may have more compact cars suitable for urban driving.
Overall, the variety of cars available in Japanese car vending machines ensures that customers have plenty of options to choose from when looking for a new or nearly new vehicle.
Are Car Vending Machines in Japan Fully Automated?
Car vending machines in Japan are largely automated but still require some level of human interaction to complete the purchase process.
The vending machines typically feature a robotic arm that can retrieve the selected car and deliver it to the pickup point.
However, customers still need to complete the necessary paperwork and provide identification to finalize the transaction.
Additionally, staff members are on-site to assist customers with any questions or issues that may arise during the purchasing process.
While Car vending machines offer a unique and futuristic buying experience, they still rely on the human touch to ensure a smooth transaction.
Are the Prices of cars in Vending Machines in Japan Competitive Compared to Traditional Dealerships
Car vending machines in Japan offer competitive prices compared to traditional dealerships.
In fact, some vending machines offer lower prices due to reduced overhead costs.
However, as with any purchase, it is recommended that customers do their own research and compare prices before making a final decision.
It’s important to note that while the vending machines offer convenience and a unique shopping experience, they may not always have the latest models or the widest selection, so customers should also consider visiting traditional dealerships for a comprehensive comparison.
What is the Largest Car Vending Machine in Japan?
One of the most impressive car vending machines in Japan is located in Tokyo and stands a whopping 15 stories tall. This impressive structure is operated by Autobacs Seven, a leading car maintenance and accessories retailer in Japan, and offers a wide selection of cars for customers to choose from.
Customers can browse through the available cars using a touchscreen display at the base of the machine and make their purchases through the Carvana website.
The purchased car is then transported to the vending machine and made available for pickup within a matter of minutes.
The opening of this car vending machine in Osaka has been a major attraction for both locals and tourists, drawing significant attention to the unique and innovative approach to car sales in Japan.
Are There any Disadvantages to Buying a Car from a Vending Machine in Japan?
One of the biggest drawbacks is the inability to test drive the car before purchasing it.
While the vending machines do have information about the car’s features and specifications, buyers may need help to get a full sense of the car’s handling or performance.
Additionally, the selection of cars may be limited compared to traditional dealerships, and buyers may need the option to negotiate on the price.
Finally, if there are any issues with the car after purchase, it may be easier to get assistance or repairs compared to buying from a traditional dealership.
Despite these potential drawbacks, many buyers still find car vending machines in Japan to be a convenient and hassle-free way to purchase a car.
Pros and Cons of Japan Car Vending Machine
Here’s a chart table highlighting the pros and cons of car vending machines in Japan:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient and accessible for busy customers | A limited selection of models and colors |
| Online and contactless sales options | No test drive is available |
| Lower overhead costs for dealerships | Limited financing options |
| Ability to view cars 24/7 | No negotiation on the price |
| Unique and novel buying experience | Potential mechanical issues not immediately visible |
| Fast and efficient purchase process | Higher chance of impulse buying |
| Popular tourist attraction | Possible language barrier for foreign customers |
In conclusion, car vending machines have become a popular and convenient option for car buyers in Japan, offering a unique and innovative approach to car sales with their advantages and limitations.
