Smartphone leasing app launched

US start-up Honcker has launched a smartphone app which the company says allows consumers to complete a car lease in three minutes, without the need to visit a showroom or talk to a dealer.

Honcker says its aim is to “make the leasing process as easy as booking an airline ticket or shopping on Amazon”.

Around 150 dealerships in five states have signed up to the platform, and upload details of the products to the app. Dealers are able to monitor and review details such as pricing, add-ons and warranties offered.

The app sends lease offers to consumers after a “soft credit check” that does not affect the purchaser’s credit score, but it does allow the app to customize pricing and availability specific to each potential buyer.

If the buyer is happy with the quote, then they take photos of their drivers’ license and insurance details and add them to the app. Buyers can have their vehicles delivered to them by the dealership once the transaction is done.

Users with Samsung Galaxy S7 phones will be able to take virtual test drives and check out showrooms if they have access to Gear VR goggles.