This program is only available in select cities.
The “autonomous vehicle” is a marketing slogan that will become a technological reality. It shouldn’t surprise that a car will drive itself to you to test it. Although cars aren’t yet available, Kia will bring the test-drive experience right to your doorstep. Kia@Home is a new program that brings cars directly to customers.
The program is not available nationwide, and it seems that the company is only testing the waters. The program is available in selected markets and will be available until October 3. Kia won’t allow its entire lineup to take at-home tests. Only the Kia Carnival and Kia Niro are eligible. The following markets will have the Kia models: Customers interested in testing drive a Kia@Home vehicle can choose a convenient location from dozens of major cities. All that’s required to book a Kia@Home appointment is to visit Kia.com and select the vehicle they would like to test drive. A Kia@Home Drive Specialist will give customers a one-hour session that includes a walkaround of the vehicle. Customers who purchase the vehicle will be connected to a local Kia dealer.
If you reside in one of these markets and are looking for a specific type of vehicle, the appointment books are open. Although the limited selection is disappointing, it’s likely that this was done logistically. To be able to deliver Kia’s whole lineup to a customer anywhere would take a greater commitment of resources. The advent of self-driving cars may – should! – alter the car-buying process.