Heycar – Redefining the Used Car Buying Experience

Heycar emerged as a transformative online marketplace in the UK, aiming to simplify the process of purchasing quality used cars. Launched in 2019 and backed by automotive giants Volkswagen Financial Services and Daimler Mobility, Heycar sought to address common pain points in the used car industry by offering a seamless, trustworthy, and user-centric platform.

Key Features

• Quality Assurance: Every vehicle listed on Heycar was under 8 years old, had less than 100,000 miles, and came with a warranty and a 10-day money-back guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for buyers.

• User-Friendly Interface: The app provided intuitive search filters, allowing users to easily find cars based on make, model, price range, mileage, and more.

• AI-Powered Search: An advanced AI-driven search bar streamlined the car-finding process, connecting users with relevant listings using simple keywords.

• Dealer Integration: Users could contact dealers directly through the app, facilitating seamless communication and transactions.

Technical Implementation

The development of the Heycar app focused on delivering a robust and scalable solution:

• Cross-Platform Availability: The app was accessible on both iOS and Android devices, ensuring a broad user reach.

• Real-Time Updates: Integration with dealer inventories allowed for real-time updates on vehicle availability and pricing.

• Secure Transactions: The platform incorporated secure authentication protocols to protect user data and ensure safe transactions.

Impact and Legacy

Despite its innovative approach and user-centric features, Heycar faced significant financial challenges, leading to its closure in the UK by mid-May 2025. The company reported substantial losses in consecutive years, prompting Volkswagen Financial Services to cease operations.

However, the technological advancements and insights gained from Heycar's operations are set to influence future ventures. Volkswagen Financial Services announced plans to integrate Heycar's technology and expertise into a new subsidiary, aiming to continue innovation in the automotive e-commerce space.