Nissan offers interactive shopping for smartphone users on sales lots

Nissan is putting Quick Response codes on its vehicle price stickers so shoppers can use smartphones to read up on cars as they peruse dealership lots.

With the "On Vehicle Graphics" system, QR codes are available to provide extra decision-making information that is easily accessible via popular mobile devices.

The codes are available to act as a "silent salesperson," starting with vehicles for the 2012 model year. People who have Web-enabled iPhone, Android and BlackBerry devices were first able to use the codes in June with the releases of the 2012 Altima and Sentra.

Key information available through the QR codes includes specifics on the vehicles, standard features, available options, a video-based product overview, image galleries, incentive offers, dealer inventories and locations, and the capability to request a quote.

Nissan said initial customer response to the QR codes on 2012 Altimas was encouraging, as many shoppers viewed multiple pages and requested follow-up information.

By Michelle Koueiter