Imagine embarking on a European vacation and driving through scenic routes in your brand-new car, fresh from the factory. This dream can become a reality with European delivery programs, offered by several premium car manufacturers. These unique programs not only give you the thrill of experiencing your new vehicle on European roads but also often come with significant savings and travel perks. For those looking at purchasing a European car in 2023, understanding these delivery programs can unlock an unforgettable buying experience.
What are European Delivery Programs?
European delivery programs, also sometimes referred to as factory delivery or overseas delivery, are an exclusive option offered by certain European automotive brands. They allow customers in the US to order their new car to their exact specifications and then pick it up directly from the factory in Europe. Think of it as a personalized car buying journey combined with a European getaway. After picking up your vehicle, you are free to explore Europe, putting your new car through its paces on its home continent before it’s shipped back to the United States. Upon your return, your car will be waiting for you at your local dealership, ready for you to enjoy stateside.
How Does European Delivery Work?
The process for European delivery is straightforward but requires some advance planning. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
- Custom Order: You begin by working with your dealer to custom order your vehicle. This means you get to choose every detail, from the model and trim to the colors and options, ensuring your car is exactly as you desire.
- Delivery Date & Travel Planning: Once your order is confirmed, you will receive a scheduled delivery date at the European factory. This allows you to book your flights and plan your European itinerary accordingly. It’s recommended to plan your trip a few months in advance to secure your preferred dates.
- Paperwork in the US: Before you depart, you will finalize all the purchase paperwork at your dealership in the US. This ensures a smooth pickup process in Europe.
- European Pickup: Upon arrival in Europe, you will travel to the designated delivery center at the factory on your scheduled date. There, you will take delivery of your brand-new vehicle, often accompanied by a special ceremony and factory tour.
- European Driving Adventure: This is where the real fun begins! You can now drive your new car across Europe, experiencing its performance and handling on diverse European roads.
- Drop-off and Redelivery: At the end of your trip, you drop off your vehicle at a designated location, often at or near a major European airport. The manufacturer then takes care of shipping your car back to the US.
- US Redelivery: After a few weeks, your vehicle will arrive at your chosen dealership in the US for final pickup. The manufacturer handles all import duties, shipping logistics, and transportation costs.
Benefits of European Delivery Programs
Choosing a European delivery program comes with a range of appealing benefits:
- Potential Cost Savings: Many manufacturers offer a discount on the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for vehicles purchased through European delivery. While Porsche is an exception to direct discounts, the unique experience still holds significant value.
- Exclusive Travel Perks: Beyond discounts, programs often include perks such as complimentary hotel nights, factory tours, museum visits, and even meals at the factory. Volvo, for instance, famously includes round-trip airfare to Sweden for two.
- Unique Experience: Picking up your car directly from the factory and driving it in Europe is an unforgettable experience for any car enthusiast. It provides a special connection with your new vehicle and the brand.
- Customization: You get to special order your vehicle to your exact specifications, ensuring you get the car you truly want, not just what’s available at the dealership.
- European Road Trip: What better way to break in your new car than exploring the scenic roads of Europe? From autobahns to coastal drives, you can create lasting memories.
European Car Delivery Programs 2023: Brand Highlights
While specific details may vary each year, here’s a glimpse into some of the European delivery programs typically offered:
Porsche European Delivery
Destination: Porsche offers delivery at their Zuffenhausen and Leipzig factories in Germany.
Program Highlights: The Porsche European Delivery experience is centered around the brand’s heritage and performance. It typically includes:
- One night hotel accommodation.
- Airport transportation to the factory or hotel.
- Factory and museum tours (Zuffenhausen).
- VIP lunch at the factory.
- Short-term European auto insurance.
- Shipping to your US dealership.
Travel Flexibility: Porsche allows owners to plan their European adventure independently, focusing on the thrill of driving a Porsche on the Autobahn and immersing themselves in the brand’s history.
Drop-off: Multiple drop-off locations across Europe provide convenience.
Redelivery Time: Expect approximately 6-10 weeks for redelivery to the US.
Pricing: While Porsche European Delivery may not offer a direct discount, it adds significant value through the experience. Pricing is negotiated with your dealer, and a separate charge applies for the European Delivery option.
Volvo European Delivery
Volvo Gothenburg Delivery Center
Destination: Volvo’s delivery center is located in Gothenburg, Sweden, the brand’s home.
Program Highlights: Volvo’s Overseas Delivery program is renowned for its generous perks:
- Two round-trip airline tickets to Sweden!
- Airport and hotel transfers.
- One night hotel stay.
- VIP factory and museum tour.
- Swedish lunch at the factory.
- Short-term European auto insurance.
- Shipping to your US dealership.
Travel Options: Volvo provides curated tour packages, such as “Castles and Manor Houses” and “Great Golf in Sweden and Scotland,” or allows you to create your own itinerary.
Drop-off: Extensive drop-off locations throughout Europe provide flexibility.
Redelivery Time: Redelivery to the US typically takes 6-12 weeks.
Pricing: Volvo offers a significant discount, ranging from 3-10% off MSRP on eligible models.
Eligible Models: Volvo’s program usually includes popular models like the XC40, XC60, XC90 SUVs, V60 CC, V90 CC wagons, and S90 sedans.
Unique Advantage: Volvo stands out as the only European delivery program that allows customers to order their new car with Europe-exclusive colors and wheel designs, adding an extra layer of personalization.
Is European Delivery Right for You in 2023?
If you are considering purchasing a European car in 2023 and are looking for a unique and memorable buying experience, European delivery programs are definitely worth exploring. They offer a blend of cost savings, travel benefits, and the unparalleled excitement of driving your new car fresh from its European factory. Whether you’re drawn to the performance heritage of Porsche or the generous travel perks of Volvo, these programs provide an exceptional way to start your ownership journey. Contact your local dealer or a European car delivery specialist to learn more and begin planning your European car adventure today.
