ESCONDIDO, Calif. — An entirely new car-buying experience is now available in San Diego County.
Carvana has opened its newest “car vending machine” in Escondido, the online used car retailer announced Wednesday.
Standing eight stories tall with a 27-vehicle capacity, customers get a front row seat to watch their purchased car descend through the white brick and glass structure, according to the company. It’s the third such machine to open in California.
Before the action can begin, customers must shop online for their vehicle and select the day when they want to pick it up. Once the customer shows up at Carvana, they are greeted by an employee who will give them a “commemorative, oversized Carvana coin” to activate the automated vending process.
“Southern California has always been an important region for Carvana, where we’ve maintained an active presence since 2017. Now, to be returning in 2022 to expand our footprint with our third Car Vending Machine in California, and our 31st in the U.S. is an impressive reflection of how far we’ve come,” said Ernie Garcia, Carvana founder and CEO. “We look forward to driving San Diego area residents happy with all of the fun and excitement that comes with our Car Vending Machine experience.”
The Escondido facility is located at 559 N. Hale Avenue and its hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Carvana offers drivers a seven-day return policy to “ensure the vehicle fits their needs and lifestyle.” The company also buys used cars.
Carvana has locations around the country.