What is Carwow?
Carwow operates as a prominent online platform designed to streamline the process of purchasing new and used cars. Established in 2013 and headquartered in London, the company facilitates connections between consumers and franchise dealers across Europe. By enabling users to compare offers from multiple dealerships, Carwow enhances transparency and promotes competitive pricing in the automotive market. The platform's innovative approach has positioned it as a key player in the digital transformation of car buying.
How much funding has Carwow raised?
Carwow has raised a total of $230.2M across 9 funding rounds:
Series B
$18.1M
Series C
$39M
Other Financing Round
$30.4M
Debt
$55M
Other Financing Round
$22.6M
Other Financing Round
$3.8M
Other Financing Round
$52M
Series B (2016): $18.1M supported by Samos Investments Advisory, accel partners, Episode 1 Ventures, and Balderton Capital LLP
Series C (2017): $39M featuring Vitruvian Partners, Balderton Capital LLP, and Accel Partners
Other Financing Round (2019): $30.4M backed by Balderton, Accel, Vitruvian, and Daimler
Debt (2021): $55M with participation from Hercules Capital
Other Financing Round (2022): $22.6M led by Channel 4 and ITV
Other Financing Round (2023): $3.8M, investors not publicly disclosed
Other Financing Round (2024): $52M featuring Bessemer Venture Partners
Key Investors in Carwow
Samos Investments Advisory
Samos Investments is a venture capital firm that focuses on high-growth businesses across Europe, particularly in sectors such as deep-tech/AI, consumer internet, e-commerce, B2B software, and financial services. The firm actively engages with its portfolio companies and collaborates with leading venture funds, family offices, and private investors.
Balderton Capital LLP
Balderton Capital is a London-based venture capital firm that raises dedicated funds to invest in early-stage, high-growth technology companies across Europe, typically leading Seed and Series A rounds and supporting founders through global scaleup and exits.
Episode 1 Ventures
Episode 1 Ventures is a new venture capital business based in London managing the new £37.5m Episode 1 Enterprise Capital Fund. The fund invests in software driven businesses based in the UK.
What's next for Carwow?
The recent major strategic investment signals Carwow's readiness for its next phase of growth, likely focusing on expanding its market reach and enhancing its digital offerings. This capital infusion will probably be directed towards technological advancements, further geographic expansion within Europe, and strengthening dealer partnerships. As Carwow continues to mature, its strategic focus will likely remain on optimizing the customer journey and solidifying its competitive advantage in the evolving automotive landscape.
See full Carwow company page
