European Delivery : Book Your Next Trip

UPDATE: MINI will be relaunching their program in 6-weeks!

In the world of automotive enthusiasts, there exists a hidden gem—a unique experience that blends the thrill of driving with the allure of international travel. It’s called “European Delivery”, and for those in the know, it’s not just a way to acquire a new car; it’s an adventure waiting to be embarked upon.

Imagine this: instead of the traditional showroom pickup, picture yourself strolling through the charming streets of Munich or exploring the sun-kissed vistas of the French Riviera. Now, overlay that with the anticipation of laying hands on the keys to your brand-new vehicle, fresh off the assembly line. That’s the essence of European delivery—a tantalizing fusion of automotive indulgence and vacation escapade.

But what exactly is European delivery? In essence, it’s a program offered by certain automakers that allows customers to pick up their newly purchased vehicles directly from the factory in Europe, rather than from a dealership in their hometown. It’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the birthplace of your car, to revel in its engineering prowess amidst the backdrop of iconic European landscapes.

For automotive aficionados, European delivery transcends the mundane act of acquiring transportation; it’s a pilgrimage to motoring nirvana. From the winding roads of the Swiss Alps to the historic cobblestones of Rome, each kilometer traversed becomes a chapter in a grand adventure. Your own modern version of the 18th century “Grand Tour” or perhaps catch part of the 2024 Summer Olympics in France. And the best part? At journey’s end, you return home not just with memories of an unforgettable vacation, but with a beloved automobile steeped in the aura of its European heritage.

Most of the European manufacturers offer their own version of delivery. Here is a list of the top 5 and their options.

VOLVO
Volvo will pay for your flight there & upon arrival offer a private chauffeur to the factory to check out your car before taking you to dinner. After that you receive your car with a temporary registration and 15 days insurance to be able to drive anywhere in Europe before shipping your new car home.

BMW
For European Deliveries, the German manufacturer offers a 5% discount, the same private dinner, a tour of the company’s Munich facilities, and the same 15 days of European insurance for you to enjoy “the Ultimate Driving Experience”.

MERCEDES-BENZ
Mercedes ups the discount to 7% and also includes a 1 night accommodation in a hotel with a $200 travel voucher. Of course, they also provide the same 15 days insurance, factory tour, etc. Delivery occurs at the Mercedes-Benz Factory Delivery Center in Sindelfingen, Germany.

AUDI
Audi has recently resumed their program after a few year’s hiatus due to Covid. Audi’s European Delivery program allows customers to pick up their vehicles at the Audi Forum Ingolstadt in Ingolstadt, Germany. They offer factory tours and other experiences as part of the program. Naturally, they too provide the 15 days of insurance and registration allowing you to enjoy your trip.

PORSCHE
Porsche’s program closely follows the Mercedes program (private driver, a single night in a local hotel and a free lunch at the company headquarters, though no mention of a discount was mentioned. Porsche’s European Delivery program customers can pick up their vehicles at the Porsche Experience Center in Leipzig, Germany, or at the Porsche

Factory in Zuffenhausen, Germany. Their program also offers you to be able to drive YOUR car around their racetrack.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER (JLR)
JLR offers the “Jaguar Land Rover British Overseas Delivery Experience” for customers purchasing new vehicles. In addition to the 15 days registration and insurance, the program allows customers to pick up their vehicles at the factory in the UK, typically in Castle Bromwich for Jaguar or Solihull for Land Rover. They also include factory tours and other experiences as part of the program. I highly recommend driving across the “chunnel” into France as part of your vacation.

MINI
MINI, which is owned by BMW, also offers a European Delivery program. Customers can pick up their new MINI vehicles at the Oxford MINI Factory in the UK. For MINI customers I also recommend a couple truly unforgettable experiences. First, drive many of the “B-Roads” throughout the countryside and watch your new car truly shine. Also, check the calendar at Goodwood which is down in Chichester. Their calendar is jam-packed with many events and experiences ranging from cars, vintage warbird flights, golf, and art exhibits. The MINI program also includes factory tours and the European Registration and Insurance.

For me, the hardest part wouldn’t be which vehicle I would choose, rather it would certainly have to be what all to cram into a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. I’m already starting to plan mine!