Build My Dream Car
Automakers provide "Custom/Reserve Vehicle" Packages
We are all familiar with how the shortage of semiconductor computer chips caused fewer new cars to appear in dealerships this year. Likewise, the lack of quality used cars in the pipeline has driven the price of a good used car into the stratosphere. New or used, it has been difficult to find the right vehicle. However, new computer chip factories are being built and new cars will indeed be coming to dealerships. In the meantime, there is a way to put together the perfect new vehicle for you that's both a clever solution and a rewarding experience.
Custom Vehicle Operations
Why not order a new vehicle made just for you? Imagine going online and selecting the year, make and model vehicle you want. Then pick specific trim levels, performance and suspension packages, interior material upgrades, stereo and infotainment upgrades, and safety assist features. Naturally, you pick the color of the vehicle, the wheels, any special graphics and more, in order to create the perfect car, truck or SUV for you. We're talking about a vehicle that was built especially for you, the way you like it.
Not only do many automakers offer "custom order" programs, but this idea has been around for a long time.
A Bit of History
Back in the 1970's, my dad wanted to purchase his version of the ultimate sedan. I recall going with him to the local Cadillac dealership and going through all the impressive brochures. He picked out an Eldorado that would be built especially for him. It began with the choice of a rich metalflake rootbeer color that Caddy called "Cognac" that came with hand-painted pinstriping in a gold hue. The vinyl roof would be a rich crème. I remember that my dad picked the exact wheels he wanted, and they were color-matched to the paint scheme.
He picked the interior wood veneer, the color and quality of the leather seats, and the latest interior options of the day. Once he signed off on his "special order," the dealership took a deposit check, and we went home with those lavish brochures to drool and dream over while we waited for my dad's ultimate car to be built back at the factory in Detroit.
About six months later, the Eldorado arrived for pickup at our local dealership. I had never seen my father so proud. This was a car he had worked a lifetime to own, and it was the last car he ever drove.
The Harley Connection
Fast-forward to 1987 when Harley-Davidson produced its excellent Porsche-designed Evolution-powered motorcycles. The Motor Company was producing around 100,000 new vehicles per year and could not meet demand. So, Harley started a "Custom Vehicle" project in which consumers could stop by a dealership, choose the model motorcycle they wanted, the color (including matching frame colors), the level of chrome details, performance upgrades, wheels, suspension, upgraded special graphic packages and more to make your Harley uniquely your own. You would give the dealership a deposit and then wait three-to-six months for the Motor Company in Milwaukee to build your one-off wonder and then deliver it to your friendly, neighborhood H-D dealership.
People loved this! They had no problem at all waiting for their "dream bike" to be built for them. In fact, many dealerships sold a ton of new helmets, leather jackets, gloves, boots and "Genuine Harley" shirts when waiting buyers would stop by on the weekends to check on the progress of their new bike and to get all geared up for that happy day when their new Harley arrived. Plus, since most purchasers were going through Harley Credit, the costs for all those "extras" generally only added 20 to 30 dollars to the monthly payment.
Special Custom Orders Today
The joyful experience of creating your own special vehicle is available to you, right now. Many people don't realize that many different automakers offer "Custom Orders" as a way to get you into the new vehicle pipeline and waiting for your special car to be built for you.
There are many different versions of custom ordering available through Ford and General Motors. You don't have to search for the right vehicle because yours is being built for you. You pick the exact color, trim, options, and packages. Even accessories can be applied right from the factory. Also keep in mind that most European brands such as BMW, Volvo, Mini, and Jaguar, do a high percentage of special custom orders.
If creating a special custom order sounds intriguing to you, let Lithia Motors help. Keep in mind that these offers can be very different depending on the specific company you are working with. First, let's look at some of the top "special order" vehicles on the market today. You may be surprised.
Top 10 Most Purchased Special Order Vehicles
Which are the top vehicles today for special orders? They run the gamut from Ford pickups and nimble Mini Coopers to the most luxurious road sedans and German sportscars. The following list is made up from least to most percentage-wise. All these brands offer unique ways to configure models into compelling packages.
