Spring in Sweden: Let’s go for a drive
How about a new car and a vacation all in one deal? It’s something for U.S. auto makers to consider.
Several European car makers allow buyers to go to the factory, pick up their car, drive it for a few days or weeks and return it so it can be shipped to the U.S.
Volvo, for example, provides round-trip airfare for two and one free night in the Radisson Hotel near the factory in Gothenburg, Sweden, says Renee Chesser, overseas delivery specialist for Quantrell Volvo in Lexington.
“They also include a lunch of Swedish meatballs and a tour of the factory,” Chesser says. “I’ve got a few customers who have done it a couple of times.”
Other European car companies, including Mercedes-Benz and BMW, have similar programs, but the details are different.
Imagine buying a Chevy and getting to see Orion Township, Mich., or a Toyota and visiting Georgetown.
It’s not exactly Europe, but throw in a lunch of Kentucky burgoo, and some people will think it’s a pretty good deal.
