eBay’s new acquisition could make it easier to buy a car from anywhere

Caramel has a website and app that helps private parties and independent dealers sell cars by handling paperwork, title transfer, financing, shipping, insurance, and more. The company has several marketplace and auction partners as well.

Although eBay has hosted listings for used car sales and auctions on the site for years, it is only currently doing so Leave it to the merchant To process payment and complete any paperwork. Fees like title fees are also handled by the seller, and you’ll have to negotiate Separately on things like dealer-installed accessories.

Last month, online retail giant Amazon She started her own “cars”. A website for people to buy new cars from dealers (only Hyundai models to start). However, Amazon advertises that you can see the transaction (including exchanging the vehicle) through to completion and only need to pick up the vehicle from the dealership.

What eBay’s process will look like has yet to be determined. eBay says its agreement with Caramel was signed on January 11, and the deal is expected to close in the first quarter of this year.