One of the pervasive themes on the Web is how traditionally offline enterprises can leverage technology and the Web to their benefit. Clearly many opportunities exist, and while there are some inherent problems in making the shift (even partially) there are some bright spots.

Earlier this year, DealerPeak launched WideStorm, a service (online negotiation engine) which enables consumers and auto dealers to negotiate the car buying transaction entirely online. So far approximately 30 dealerships have signed up with WideStorm.

Dealers who have signed up for WideStorm can now allow shoppers that visit their dealership website to negotiate price, payments, financing terms and even trade values all on-line. When the dealer and the consumer agree on the terms of the transaction, the buyer simply comes in to the dealership to sign the paperwork and pick up their new vehicle. One of the tenets of the program is that it is "Risk Free". This means that if for any reason the vehicle does not meet the buyer's expectations, they are under no obligation to complete the purchase.

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