Car buyers in Japan now have convenience of ordering Honda cars online

Honda Motor Co. became the first Japanese automobile manufacturer to allow local customers to complete the entire online purchasing process, from consultation to contract-signing.

On Honda's website, customers can choose a car model, select options, and apply for a car loan. They only need to go to the showroom when getting their cars.

Only mainstay models with high sales volume are available for online purchase.

The service is initially being offered only to Tokyo residents but will soon be expanded nationwide.

This winter, Nissan will also allow customers in Japan to finish purchases online of its new Ariya electric sport utility vehicle.

Online car sales his already being done in the US by such automakers as Tesla, Toyota, and Nissan.