A collaboration between Reynolds and Reynolds, Volkswagen Group of America, and LaFontaine Automotive Group has introduced a new approach to vehicle service, combining cutting-edge kiosk technology with mobile service capabilities. This initiative, launched at Volkswagen’s Auburn Hills operations facility, focuses on a shared commitment to improving both customer satisfaction and employee productivity.
The partnership integrates Reynolds’ GoMoto kiosk with Volkswagen Mobile Service, facilitated by LaFontaine Volkswagen Dearborn. Employees now enjoy the convenience of scheduling, check-in, and payment services at the kiosk, allowing for vehicle maintenance and minor repairs to be conducted onsite during their workday. This eliminates the need for off-site visits, maximizing personal and professional time.
“By working together, we’ve created efficiencies that ultimately benefit both dealerships and OEMs,” said Chris Walsh, president and CEO of Reynolds. “This is why we get out of bed and go to work every day – to help our customers be as successful as possible. It’s through collaboration that we’ll continue to innovate and reach new heights as an industry. We’re grateful for the opportunity to work with Volkswagen and LaFontaine to make this innovative concept a reality.”
Volkswagen’s Involvement
The program reflects Volkswagen’s customer-focused philosophy, aiming to streamline the service process as much as possible to improve the experience. There are already plans to expand similar services to other locations in the future.
“Volkswagen is constantly exploring innovative ways to make the entire ownership experience exceptional,” said Dave Durant, SVP VW After Sales. “The feedback and results have been phenomenal, and Volkswagen is looking to extend this collaboration to other corporate facilities in the next year. We hope our dealers see the benefits of using Mobile Service to extend their Service Departments to exceed our customer’s expectations.”
While the program is in its infancy, it is still able to demonstrate the usefulness of both on-site kiosk technology and mobile service. In Auburn Hills, Volkswagen wanted to provide an extra service for their own employees to increase convenience. They found that in this collaboration.
“Our employees are important to us and they are also our customers. This initiative allows them to continue to focus on the work tasks at hand and save some valuable family time when they have vehicle maintenance needs,” said Durant. “Having work performed by Volkswagen certified technicians from our partner LaFontaine Volkswagen of Dearborn, ensures our employee customers are getting the same level of service without the inconvenience of dropping their vehicle off at the dealership. It’s a win-win for the company and our employees.”
LaFontaine Automotive Group
Founded in 1980, LaFontaine Automotive Group is an award-winning dealership group that includes 54 retail franchises, 9 collision centers and 39 Michigan retail locations. They were brought in for their highly rated mobile vehicle service offerings. At the Auburn Hills facility, LaFontaine’s mobile service unit, stationed in a designated area of the parking lot, offers certified vehicle care, emphasizing convenience and quality.
“Our partnership with Reynolds and Volkswagen of America is a powerful example of how innovation and collaboration can elevate the guest experience,” said Ryan LaFontaine, CEO, LaFontaine Automotive Group. “By combining leading-edge technology with mobile service convenience, we’re making vehicle ownership easier and more efficient – meeting customers where they are and delivering the personalized care they deserve.”
The collaboration is a model for integrating technology and mobility solutions to reimagine the automotive service experience for both customers and employees alike. By focusing on the strengths of all three businesses, it creates a service that can provide a unique experience.
“We’re proud to launch this innovative mobile service program in partnership with Volkswagen and Reynolds, bringing a seamless, convenient experience directly to our guests,” said Joe Pytel, General Manager, LaFontaine Volkswagen Dearborn. “It’s all about making service effortless, saving customers valuable time, and finding new ways to better serve them—both at the workplace and throughout the community.”
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