Today is the day!?!?!?

[CommodoreAmiga]

True, but not always because of customer service. There are a lot of factors like financing and service experiences which are not always a dealership issue. I am not a fan of dealers, but when you go in to buy a car there is a personal salesperson to tell you about the vehicle and help you through the process all while sitting on a nice couch and unlimited fountain drinks.
Magnitudes better than what most manufacturers offer.

Meh. The "test drive" and seeing a vehicle in person is the only thing I really think the dealer does that gives me value in the sales process (service is different).

Honestly, this is something Tesla has gotten right, imo. I like their stores. I can sit in the product and play around as long as I want and there's no pressure. If I want to test drive they'll gladly setup a time. When I'm ready to buy, I can do it from the comfort of my home.

Some dealers are trying to implement this (accelerated by pandemic) but ultimately it's still a high-pressure sales environment.

Rivian will probably get to a point where it's great. But it's hard, initially, since they don't have the stores built out.

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[Riventures]

Here is another "communications" experience for comparison purposes, although admittedly not entirely apples to apples:

Calling Ford Performance (FP), late September:
...wait time: 30 secs, live person answers the call.

Me: "When do you think I might be able to place an order for a 2022 truck?"
FP: "The order banks should open first half of October, we anticipate. At that time you should be able to place your final configuration for the truck."
...
Third week of October:
Calling FP, wait time <30 secs

Me: "Could you please provide me with a status on my order?"
FP: "let me check...(15 secs later), your truck is scheduled for production on the week of 12/6/21. Your VIN and window sticker are available electronically. Is there anything else I can provide?"
Me: "No, thank you! You made my day."
FP: "Once you have taken delivery of your truck, please do not forget to schedule your off-road driving school, which is included in the price of the truck, I am sure you will enjoy it, it is held in Utah."
Me: "I certainly will, thank you again."



P.S. No one asked for a deposit.