Suzuki 'Global Salon'
Suzuki is launching a new website - one that embraces several forward facing technologies that will make it very different to those presently operated by its competitors.
Called the Suzuki Motorcycle Global Salon, the company is describing it as a "next-generation communications platform that fans of Suzuki motorcycles can use on their laptop or smartphone" from February 5th.
"The Global Salon allows users to view motorcycles ‘on display’ in a virtual environment from the comfort of their own home, as though visiting an authorised dealership or motorcycle show, and also enjoy the unveiling of brand new models.
"When browsing the models on display, users can view technical information and configure machines to suit, including colours and accessories. They can also interact with fellow visitors to the salon".
Suzuki says it will look to host future new model launches on the new Global Salon platform too - with fans from around the world able to virtually attend and witness the reveal of new bikes as they happen. Registration opens on 28 January, in advance of the February 5th grand opening, with a smartphone app due to be released at a later date.
This is another of a range of moves by motorcycle manufacturers that will inevitably have an impact on the industry's established major exhibitions and, in this case, is one that will likely change (if not decisively reduce or increase) the nature of dealership showroom traffic and consumer engagement.
The impacts of the global pandemic are destined to cast a long shadow on the pre-COVID motorcycle industry orthodoxy.
