eBay Motors adds escrow and chat to mobile app

eBay’s automotive marketplace is partnering with an online payments provider and launching two new in-app chat features.

eBay Motors is teaming up with Escrow.com to enable secure transactions via its app, launched in December 2019, and website. Escrow.com will ensure funds of prospective buyers are protected until the vehicle has been inspected and accepted, and that sellers can more safely reach and transact with buyers over long distances.

“At eBay Motors, we strive to always deliver the most trusted and easy experience for our customers,” said Ron Jaiven, GM of eBay Vehicles. “With the introduction of Escrow.com, we're evolving how users shop on our platform in a way that is unrivaled in the market, and completely changes how users buy and sell cars on our platform.”

“We are thrilled to have partnered with eBay to offer Escrow.com for more secure online transactions,” said Jackson Elsegood, GM at Escrow.com. “From start to finish, each transaction runs smoothly and securely, while buyers and sellers receive equal levels of protection throughout the entire sales process.”

In addition, new chat functionality facilitates conversations among buyers, sellers and the eBay Motors app community. A seller chat feature allows potential buyers to connect with sellers directly via the app to ask questions about a listing. Seller chat also provides buyers with pre-written conversation starter sentences that facilitate interaction and direct online negotiation.

Meanwhile, a community chat offering enables auto enthusiasts to comment on current listings using text and/or emojis.