Currently reading: New Skoda Marketplace app alerts drivers to discounts
Czech firm has introduced an app that flags nearby discounts to drivers on car's infotainment system

Skoda has launched a new app that alerts drivers to discounts from nearby petrol stations, restaurants and supermarkets.

Dubbed Skoda Marketplace, the service initially alerts drivers for petrol stations, with cars identifying when fuel is low then displaying nearby services and their discounts, such as two-for-one deals on sandwiches, via the infotainment system.

The new feature is currently available on the Skoda Kamiq, Skoda KaroqSkoda KodiaqSkoda Scala and Skoda Superb in the Czech Republic, but it will be rolled out across the rest of Skoda’s range and other countries, including the UK, in the future.

To begin with, the deals that the driver is alerted to are generic, but over time, the app analyses drivers’ behaviour, routines and popular routes to deliver more personalised offers. Drivers can also use the app to search for deals manually.

In order to use Skoda Marketplace, drivers must have Skoda Connect and then register for Marketplace while inside their car.

The app makes use of the new-generation infotainment and connectivity systems that Skoda introduced to its Karoq, Kodiaq and Superb earlier this year, including a permanent internet connection via a built-in SIM card and upgraded touchscreens.

The app is the latest of several tech innovations to be explored by Skoda. Most recently the firm developed a light-up LED seatbelt buckle to make seatbelts easier to put on at night. Last year, Skoda filed 94 patent applications, more than any other company in the Czech Republic.

Skoda has also invested heavily in start-ups in Israel. In 2016, it established a standalone firm called Skoda Digliab to find start-ups developing technology that could benefit Skoda. Israel start-ups are particularly highly regarded for their work in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

READ MORE

Skoda updates Karoq, Kodiaq and Superb with new tech 

Skoda patents LED seatbelt buckle to improve usability at night 

The hunt for new car tech: Why Skoda is backing start-ups in Israel

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ewallace1 17 December 2020
So basically internet cookies in your car now? I’m guessing that Skoda/VAG group will get commission if you stop at somewhere they recommend or they will be selling the data about your journey habits. No thank you.
Speedraser 17 December 2020

Trying to think of something I care about less than this. Cannot think of anything.

And wondering what could possibly be in the above that would get it rejected as spam -- really absurd.

xxxx 17 December 2020

Or as I call it, adverts in car for tat you dont want.

XLR8 17 December 2020

Agreed. As if we're not bombarded with enough s**t already, let's have further distractions while we're driving.

I'm sure you'll be thrilled that there's 1p a litre off unleaded at the Shell garage 2 miles ahead just as that cyclist goes under your wheels because your eyes weren't on the road.

 

 

scotty5 17 December 2020
XLR8 wrote:

Agreed. As if we're not bombarded with enough s**t already, let's have further distractions while we're driving.

Who mentioned anything about whilst driving? There are lots of things you can't do on the infotainment system whilst driving, I very much doubt the screen will flash up adverts.

A revenue generated tool where businesses will pay Skoda a fee to advertise their product. There is one big problem that potential customers have to be aware of tho, Skoda Connect is 5hite. It's hit and miss if it works. After 1st year, the car owner then has to pay Skoda a fee to retain the connect option.

It may be good in theory to generate revenue but in practice it won't work.

xxxx 17 December 2020
scotty5 wrote:

XLR8 wrote:

Agreed. As if we're not bombarded with enough s**t already, let's have further distractions while we're driving.

Who mentioned anything about whilst driving? There are lots of things you can't do on the infotainment system whilst driving, I very much doubt the screen will flash up adverts.

...

You very much doubt it, if it does not flash or give out a verbal advert whilst driving when does it, whilst you are watching tv in the lounge 20 feet from the car.