Walmart throws its hat into the car sales ring

Walmart is adding a new category to its assortment: automobile sales.



While the chain has always sold tires and accessories, a new partnership with CarSaver, an online auto retail platform, is allowing the retail giant to dip its toe into the car sales industry. The retail giant is setting up CarSaver kiosks at 25 Walmart superstores in Houston, Dallas, Phoenix and Oklahoma City.



The kiosks will enable Walmart shoppers to browse from a selection of new, used or certified pre-owned vehicles, apply for financing through Ally Financial, and even choose insurance. Once choices are recorded, CarSaver will connect shoppers with a local dealership within 15 miles of their Walmart store. The program is set to launch in April, according to Advertising Age.



In addition to the kiosks, shoppers can access the service on their mobile device via CarSaver's website, or by calling an 800 number, Automotive News said.



For every car sale made, the dealership pays CarSaver a "success fee" of $350 in most states.



The partners ran a pilot program in Stuart, Florida, last year and found customers saved $3,000 off the car's sticker price on average, according to Automotive News.