(Yicai Global) Dec. 14 -- Tmall Auto, the online vehicle marketplace under e-tail titan Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. [NYSE:BABA], has unveiled its first automated car 'vending machine' for consumers in Shanghai, allowing buyers to more conveniently purchase their new ride, it said at an unveiling ceremony in the city yesterday.

The self-service terminal will cover 200 square meters and is located close to Shanghai World Expo Center in Pudong New Area, online media outlet The Paper reported. Unlike traditional automotive '4S' stores, the Tmall outlet will allow buyers to browse vehicles from various makers. 4S stands for sales, spare parts, servicing and surveys.

One of the store's core features is that it allows brands and dealers to use Alibaba's Big Data and other new technologies to make life easier for consumers, said Yu Wei, general manager at Tmall Auto.

The firm plans to add a second Shanghai outlet, in Hongkou District, and one in Guangzhou in January. It hopes to roll out dozens more in China's first-, second- and third-tier cities next year. Leading auto brands, including Ford, Mercedez-Benz, Volvo and Porsche, have expressed a keen interest to take part in the program.

Potential buyers looking to take a test drive will need to make a reservation through Alibaba's Taobao platform. They can then scan their face at the store's location, where they will receive the keys to their selected car and be able to take it on a three-day test drive. There are no sales people involved during the booking and collection process.