Bluewater is set to launch a car showroom which allows people to research vehicles in the same way they do online.

The Rockar Hyundai digital store will aim to change the traditional way of buying a car by allowing customers to carry out many services at the touch of a button.

The company has signed a 10-year lease on a 2,015 sq ft showroom which will combine in-store, online and mobile shopping.

Shoppers will be able to research a car, book a test drive, get a price for their old car, choose a payment option, buy and organise a service of their car in the outlet on the lower Rose Gallery.

There will also be staff on hand to answer questions, plus car from the entire Hyundai range available to test drive in a parking area at the back of the store.

Hyundai Motor UK president and chief executive Tony Whitehorn said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of Rockar Hyundai, a highly innovative and enticing addition to our existing dealer network.

“It offers consumers an easy and flexible alternative to buying and owning a car unprecedented in the UK automotive industry. Rockar Hyundai is the shape of things to come.”

Rockar was formed in December 2011 to research and develop a new customer-focused car retail style, away from traditional car dealerships.

Research indicates dealerships are visited just 1.3 times on average before purchase.

Rockar founder Simon Dixon said: “It is clear from research that customers buying a new car find it an intimidating experience.

“Rockar’s vision is simple: to ensure the customer is truly at its heart and feels empowered throughout the process.

“I am delighted Hyundai and Bluewater had the foresight to partner with Rockar on this exciting retail journey.”

Rockar Hyundai is one of several stores set to open at Bluewater ahead of Christmas this year, including Steamer Trading Cookshop, Bill’s, White Stuff and American Eagle.

CBRE acted for Bluewater. Rockar Hyundai dealt direct.