Salesforce and Ather Energy Launch Autonomous Dealer Management System
Revolutionizing Customer Experience in Electric Mobility
On Monday, US tech giant Salesforce partnered with Ather Energy, an electric two-wheeler manufacturer preparing for its initial public offering (IPO), to introduce an innovative automotive dealer management system powered by autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) agents. The solution, accessible via a mobile app, is designed to empower dealers, enabling them to make real-time decisions and enhance customer satisfaction.
Enhancing Efficiency for Dealers
The Ather dealership platform aims to significantly reduce customer turnaround time, which typically stretches up to four weeks for addressing queries and concerns. This strategic collaboration is also set to address an industry-wide challenge: the shortage of skilled workforce in key domains.
Ather Energy’s Expanding Network
Ather Energy currently operates 350 dealerships nationwide and is planning to broaden its footprint in the forthcoming months. The newly launched interface will monitor operational efficiency across various functions, utilizing AI-driven technologies.
Accelerating Lead Conversion
In a competitive electric vehicle (EV) market, Ather expects the new platform to expedite lead conversion, thereby enhancing their market positioning. “Over time, our technology stack became fragmented,” stated Ravneet S. Phokela, Ather Energy’s Chief Business Officer. “While it served its purpose, scaling and integrating new technologies posed challenges.”
Integrating Core Functions
The Ather Dealer Central, built on Salesforce’s infrastructure, will seamlessly integrate lead management systems (LMS), customer relationship management (CRM), and dealership management systems (DMS) into a cohesive, scalable platform. This foundational model is intended to support innovative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the industry.
Importance of Customer Experience
According to Mankiran Chowhan, Vice President of Financial Services and Customer Industries at Salesforce India, “As India’s EV market matures, customer experience becomes a crucial driver of growth. Consumers now expect differentiated, seamless interactions while making eco-conscious choices.” She highlighted the growing necessity of AI-driven innovations in enhancing customer engagement as businesses expand.
Ather’s Strategic Plans Ahead of IPO
Ather is anticipated to file an updated draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) this week, paving the way for an initial public offering (IPO) in the first half of April. The upcoming IPO will likely be at a lower valuation than initially planned, reflecting adjustments made in response to market dynamics.
Conclusion
As the electric mobility sector continues to evolve, partnerships like that of Salesforce and Ather Energy are vital in driving technological advancements aimed at improving customer experiences and operational efficiency. Industry stakeholders are keenly observing how these innovations will shape the future landscape of electric vehicle sales.
FAQs
1. What is the purpose of the new dealer management system launched by Salesforce and Ather Energy?
The new dealer management system aims to enable real-time decision-making for dealers and enhance customer satisfaction by reducing turnaround times.
2. How many dealers does Ather Energy currently have?
Ather Energy currently has 350 dealerships across India.
3. What are the key components of the ‘Ather Dealer Central’ platform?
The ‘Ather Dealer Central’ integrates lead management systems (LMS), customer relationship management (CRM), and dealership management systems (DMS) into a single scalable platform.
4. When does Ather Energy plan to launch its IPO?
Ather Energy is looking to launch its IPO in the first half of April 2024.
5. Why is customer experience important in the EV market according to Salesforce?
As the EV market matures, a positive customer experience is seen as a key driver for business growth, with consumers expecting smooth interactions while making eco-friendly choices.
