Le processus de commande/affectation de voitures est-il défaillant ?

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Broken Vehicle Ordering System for Dealerships
3. Two Main Ways of Getting Cars for Dealerships 3.1 Car Allocation 3.2 Car Ordering
4. Pros and Cons of Car Allocation 4.1 Pros 4.2 Cons
5. Pros and Cons of Car Ordering 5.1 Pros 5.2 Cons
6. Tesla's Ordering System
7. The Best Approach for Manufacturers 7.1 Standardized Manufacturers 7.2 Manufacturers with Optional Equipment
8. The Importance of Customer Satisfaction
9. Stalantis' Success with Ordering Method
10. Achieving Equilibrium in the Ordering System

🚗 Current Vehicle Ordering and Allocation System: A Broken Approach

Nowadays, the vehicle ordering and allocation system for dealerships in the United States is facing significant challenges. This has led to a broken process that not only affects manufacturers but also impacts customers. In this article, we will delve into the different aspects of this issue, including the two main ways dealerships obtain cars, the pros and cons of car allocation and ordering, and the success of Tesla's unique ordering system. We will also discuss the best approach for manufacturers, considering both standardized and manufacturers with optional equipment. So buckle up and let's drive into the complexities of the current vehicle ordering system.

1. Introduction

Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the world of vehicle ordering and allocation. In this fast-paced industry, manufacturers and dealerships face numerous challenges when it comes to fulfilling customer demands while optimizing production. The current system, however, seems to be falling short, creating a gap between manufacturers, dealerships, and customers. In this article, we will explore the flaws of the existing system, analyze the pros and cons of car allocation and ordering, and propose potential solutions for a more efficient and customer-centric approach.

2. Broken Vehicle Ordering System for Dealerships

The current vehicle ordering system in the US is far from perfect. It often leaves both manufacturers and dealerships grappling with the unpredictable demands of the market. This broken process inhibits their ability to provide customers with the cars they truly desire. Whether it's the allocation method or the ordering method, both systems have their advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

3. Two Main Ways of Getting Cars for Dealerships

Dealerships primarily rely on two methods to obtain cars: car allocation and car ordering. Each method has its own set of rules and limitations, ultimately impacting the types and quantities of vehicles available to customers.

3.1 Car Allocation

Car allocation refers to a process in which manufacturers inform dealerships about the number of vehicles they will receive within a specified time period. This allocation is typically predetermined by the manufacturer, leaving little room for customization. Dealerships may have minor adjustments, like choosing colors and options, but they cannot alter the overall model distribution.

Toyota provides a perfect example of car allocation. They inform their dealerships about the number of models, such as the popular Toyota 4Runner, they will receive, along with the specific variants like SR5 or TRD Pro. While dealerships can request slight modifications within these variants, they cannot alter the allocation significantly. This process creates a significant gap between manufacturers and customers since manufacturers dictate what customers will want, indirectly influencing their choices.

4.1 Pros of Car Allocation

• Maintains high demand for in-demand vehicles over an extended period.
• Streamlines the production process and maintains a standardized inventory.
• Provides a sense of exclusivity and desirability for certain models.
• Allows manufacturers to forecast production more accurately.

4.2 Cons of Car Allocation

• Creates a gap between manufacturers, dealerships, and customers.
• May lead to manufacturing excess if customer demand is misjudged.
• Limits customization options for customers.
• In-demand vehicles often have higher prices due to limited supply.

3.2 Car Ordering

On the other hand, car ordering gives dealerships more control over the vehicles they receive from manufacturers. The process involves dealerships submitting specific requests for models, packages, colors, and options based on customer feedback and preferences. This method allows for a more tailored approach to serving customers' needs and desires.

Car ordering proves particularly beneficial for manufacturers with a wide range of optional equipment. It enables them to produce vehicles according to customer specifications, ensuring higher customer satisfaction. American manufacturers like Stellantis have successfully adopted the ordering method, leading to increased sales and customer loyalty.

5.1 Pros of Car Ordering

• Provides customers with the ability to get exactly what they want in a vehicle.
• Increases customer satisfaction by catering to individual preferences.
• Creates a personal connection between dealerships, manufacturers, and customers.
• Reduces excess inventory and the need for excessive discounts.

5.2 Cons of Car Ordering

• The demand for specific vehicles may falter over time as customers get what they want.
• Manufacturers need to be responsive to changing customer preferences.
• Requires better coordination between manufacturers and dealerships to ensure timely production and delivery.

6. Tesla's Ordering System: A Unique Approach

In the realm of vehicle ordering, Tesla has carved its own path. The esteemed electric car manufacturer allows customers to order vehicles directly from their website, establishing a consumer-to-manufacturer relationship. This innovative approach eliminates the dealership middleman, providing customers with a hassle-free buying experience.

Tesla's business model, however, is not replicable for most automakers. The success of Tesla's ordering system can be attributed to its substantial capital, allowing them to establish the necessary infrastructure to bypass traditional dealership networks. Luxury carmakers like Tesla, with higher profit margins per vehicle, can afford this approach. However, the average automaker lacks the financial means and volume to adopt a direct-to-consumer ordering system.

7. The Best Approach for Manufacturers: Finding the Perfect Balance

Determining the optimal approach for manufacturers involves considering various factors, including the nature of their products and customer expectations. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, different manufacturers can benefit from different methods.

7.1 Standardized Manufacturers

For standardized manufacturers like Toyota, the allocation system still holds some benefits. Standardized vehicles with minimal variations can be efficiently produced and distributed based on anticipated demand. By streamlining the production process and sticking to a predetermined allocation, manufacturers can maintain a steady supply of in-demand vehicles, ensuring a consistent customer base. However, manufacturers must remain vigilant to avoid overproduction and subsequent discounts.

7.2 Manufacturers with Optional Equipment

Manufacturers with a wide range of optional equipment, such as American automakers, can reap rewards from the car ordering system. Responding to customer demands and preferences becomes pivotal, as customers seek vehicles tailored to their specific needs. By embracing the ordering method, manufacturers can reduce excess inventory, minimize the need for discounts, and enhance customer satisfaction. Stellantis has successfully embraced this approach, cementing its position as a leader in customer-driven manufacturing.

8. The Importance of Customer Satisfaction in the Ordering System

Regardless of the approach chosen, customer satisfaction should remain the top priority for manufacturers and dealerships. The vehicle ordering system should not only deliver the desired vehicles promptly but also provide an exceptional buying experience. By actively listening to customer feedback, manufacturers can adapt their production and allocation strategies to align with evolving preferences. This customer-centric approach fosters loyalty, promotes positive brand perception, and ultimately drives more sales.

9. Stalantis' Success with the Ordering Method

Stalantis, with its emphasis on customer-driven manufacturing, serves as a compelling example of the effectiveness of the ordering method. By allowing customers to configure their vehicles with desired features and options, Stalantis has witnessed a substantial increase in sales. This refreshing approach ensures that customers receive precisely what they desire while reducing the excess inventory often associated with the allocation method. Although some vehicles may still be subject to discounts, Stalantis has effectively struck a balance between customization and efficient production.

10. Achieving Equilibrium in the Ordering System

As manufacturers navigate the complexities of the vehicle ordering and allocation system, the ultimate goal should be to strike an equilibrium between customer satisfaction, efficient production, and dealership needs. Each manufacturer must assess its product range, customer preferences, and production capabilities to determine the most suitable approach. By embracing innovative strategies, manufacturers can transform the broken system into a harmonious and thriving ecosystem, ensuring that customers' desires are met satisfactorily.

So, fasten your seatbelts, ladies and gentlemen, as we embark on this journey toward an optimized vehicle ordering system that puts customer satisfaction in the driver's seat.

Highlights:

1. The current vehicle ordering and allocation system for dealerships in the US is broken, creating a gap between manufacturers, dealerships, and customers.
2. Car allocation and car ordering are the two main methods dealerships use to obtain vehicles.
3. Car allocation allows manufacturers to predetermine the number and models of vehicles dealerships will receive, while car ordering gives dealerships more control over vehicle customization.
4. Pros of car allocation include streamlining production and maintaining high demand for in-demand vehicles, while cons include limited customization options and potential overproduction.
5. Pros of car ordering include customer satisfaction and tailored vehicles, while cons include diminishing demand over time and the need for better coordination between manufacturers and dealerships.
6. Tesla's direct-to-consumer ordering system is unique but not feasible for most automakers due to financial and infrastructure limitations.
7. Standardized manufacturers, like Toyota, may benefit from the allocation method, while manufacturers with optional equipment can thrive with the ordering method, as demonstrated by Stalantis.
8. Customer satisfaction should drive the ordering system, and manufacturers should actively listen to customer feedback to adapt their strategies.
9. Stalantis has achieved success by embracing the ordering method, resulting in increased sales and minimized excess inventory.
10. Achieving equilibrium in the ordering system requires manufacturers to find a balance between customer satisfaction, efficient production, and dealership needs.

FAQ:

Q: Will the ordering method lead to diminished demand over time? A: While the ordering method allows customers to get what they want, demand may decline as customers acquire their desired vehicles. However, manufacturers must adapt to changing customer preferences to maintain demand.

Q: Why can't all manufacturers adopt Tesla's ordering method? A: Tesla's ordering system works for them due to their higher profit margins and substantial capital. Most manufacturers lack the financial means and volume to establish a direct-to-consumer approach.

Q: How can manufacturers ensure customer satisfaction in the ordering system? A: By actively listening to customer feedback and adapting their production and allocation strategies accordingly, manufacturers can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Q: How has Stalantis succeeded with the ordering method? A: Stalantis' customer-driven manufacturing approach allows customers to configure vehicles according to their preferences. This has resulted in increased sales and minimized excess inventory.

Q: What is the best approach for standardized manufacturers like Toyota? A: Standardized manufacturers can benefit from the allocation method, as it streamlines production and maintains a standardized inventory. However, they must be careful not to overproduce and accurately predict customer demand.