"The most important task of the platform is to reduce the complexity of a growing product range from many manufacturers with different variants for the user ."
A platform not only consolidates all relevant information for spare parts procurement, but also for installation. N4 offers a one-stop-shop solutionthat seamlessly integrates tires, rims, car parts, and services into enterprise resource planning – without additional logins or media disruptions. This creates a shopping experience that combines the convenience of modern B2C platforms with an efficient connection between OEM and aftermarket. The seamless integration ensures continuous information flow and optimizes processes in workshops.
Briefly Explained: What Is a Platform?
A platform is a digital infrastructure that connects different stakeholders and enables the exchange of products, services, or information. It serves as an intermediary and creates added value for all parties involved by integrating data and processes.
Customer expectations in the B2B sector have significantly changed in recent years: customers now demand a fast and seamless experience, just like in B2C. Instant access to information on delivery times, prices, and stock levels are central requirements in the ordering process.
However, a platform where everything is available is still new for both customers and workshops in the automotive aftermarket. Customers are not used to having certain information available on demand or using a platform that offers maintenance in combination with recall actions. Here, it’s essential to build trust in the platform’s logic and workflows. On the other side is the workshop, which must use all this information and pass it on to the customer. Software providers face the challenge of harmonizing the required information (e.g., mapping of original to aftermarket parts, repair manuals for a portfolio of new vehicle models and brands, etc.) from up to 20 sources on the platform – without the user noticing the complexity.
Digital platforms optimize workshop processes by matching OE and AM parts with a single click, resulting in a significant efficiency boost. They not only enable the identification of suitable alternatives but also serve as powerful procurement tools that solve problems which would otherwise require multiple third-party solutions.
Other advantages include:
"The most important task of the platform is to reduce the complexity of a growing product range from many manufacturers with different variants for the user ."
N4 offers a holistic solution that integrates the purchase of tires, rims, car parts, and services directly into the ERP system. Users benefit from a unified platform without inconvenient system switches or additional logins. The concept combines the user-friendliness of modern B2C marketplaces with the efficient networking of OEM and aftermarket products. Seamless integration optimizes information flow and noticeably simplifies workflows in workshops.
Procuring spare parts can be time-consuming – but with N4PARTS it’s efficient and simple. The tool enables quick identification of both OEM and aftermarket parts. Thanks to intelligent search functions and direct supplier connections, workshops can respond faster and optimize their processes.
Highlights:
The N4WHEELS B2B shop offers workshops fast and high-performance access to tires, rims, and complete wheels. With optimized search performance and direct connections to wholesalers, procurement becomes a breeze – even in peak seasons.
Highlights:
With N4DIA – a digital checklist that can be customized individually – workshops optimize their service from the very first vehicle reception.The tool digitizes the check-in with the customer, supports legally required safety checks, and helps efficiently prepare upcoming maintenance work.
Highlights:
N4FLEET supports fleet managers in the simple and efficient care of their end customers. To ensure maximum performance of their fleets, our software compiles maintenance, inspections, repairs, and more based on manufacturer specifications. The tool is enhanced by the integrated modules N4PRICING – for transparent cost calculation – and N4AUDIT – for monitoring and optimizing billing processes.
Highlights:
Fast and seamless data exchange is essential in the B2B sector. N4CONNECT simplifies the ERP integration process, enables smooth communication between ERP and webshop, and provides live queries on delivery times, prices, and stock levels. Scalable and efficient, the middleware connects thousands of suppliers and meets growing demands for real-time data in the automotive aftermarket.
Highlights:
PATRICK LANG
head of automotive products
LENA SCHÖNLEBEN
head of online marketing & communications
