With physical distancing and travel restrictions due to COVID-19, Volvo Trucks Customer Center in Dublin, Va., is conducting virtual walk-arounds for its fleet customers who have ordered new trucks. The virtual presentations of new Volvo Trucks models are done via video conference.
The virtual walk-arounds have created an immersive visual experience for those looking for an up-close review of a Volvo truck. Customers can get an exclusive first-hand look at truck details and the opportunity to provide input, and even make requests or changes to their specification.
National concrete and materials company Ozinga Bros, Inc. participated in a virtual walk-around to get a bumper-to-bumper look at Volvo Trucks’ new vocational VHD model for ready-mix concrete. While product experts presented features and advantages of the truck, live images were shared from a high-definition webcam showcasing the truck’s exterior and interior, as well as providing close-up undercarriage, powertrain, and suspension views that are very difficult to see in person.
“This was a great opportunity for us to pay a virtual visit to the Volvo Trucks facility and enjoy a presentation that we otherwise would not have been able to schedule under the current pandemic circumstances,” said Jeff Bonnema, vice president of fleet management with Ozinga Bros., Inc.
At another recent video walk-around, the virtual event was attended by a dealer sales representative in Illinois, the dealer’s customer, Volvo Trucks corporate executives located in Greensboro, N.C., a Volvo Trucks product expert who was working remotely and the team at the Volvo Trucks Customer Center.
Another pilot review included 60 attendees, with 50 participating virtually from across the United States.
“As states are relaxing their restrictions on group gatherings, we know there will be more customers and prospects wanting to visit the Volvo Trucks Customer Center,” said Rob Simpson, director of Volvo Trucks Customer Center. “For now, the use of virtual digital technology allows us to stay connected safely and show new trucks as they come off the factory line.”
The Volvo Trucks Customer Center is currently open at a very limited capacity for in-person vehicle reviews. Volvo Trucks said that customers should contact their dealer sales representative to request their own virtual experience or a hybrid presentation, which includes both online and on-site, socially distanced attendance, for a unique look at new trucks or models not available in their area.