According to this article Ford will become the first car manufacturer to sells its cars direct to the customer via the internet. Ford’s research has shown that customers would like to be able to buy their new car on the internet and that many would be happy to do so without taking a test drive. Ford will make all car models available to purchase online and customers will be able to place their order by email. The car will then be delivered to one of 12 regional delivery centres where customers can inspect it before driving it away. The move is likely to trigger similar initiatives from rival companies who I’m sure are watching closely to see how successful this is.