The automotive industry is embracing the use of AI-powered tools to drive retailer growth and enhance customer experience. This includes chatbots from AutoConverse, Auto Trader’s Vehicle Highlights and heycar’s AI-powered search bar. AutoConverse noted a 43% increase in customer conversations with dealer chatbots compared with January 2024 – with a conversion rate of more than… Continue reading Increased AI focus assists dealers with growth
Author: Motor Trader Online News
Pinewood to roll-out AI tools for dealers following Seez acquisition
DMS and software firm Pinewood is to accelerate the roll-out of AI tools for dealers following its acquisition of Dubai based Seez software firm due for completion in March. The move was announced yesterday as Pinewood said it was to buy Seez for £33.3m. Lithia said it was supportive of the acquisition and confirmed its… Continue reading Pinewood to roll-out AI tools for dealers following Seez acquisition
Carwow adds digital payment service to dealers
Carwow has launched a free to use payment method for dealers that purchase stock via its daily online auctions to streamline operations and improve customer experience. Launched in partnership with payments company Airwallex, Carwow Wallet processes payments for dealers who purchase used cars from thousands of private sellers via Carwow’s daily online auctions. The service… Continue reading Carwow adds digital payment service to dealers
Toyota reinforces importance of dealers in advertising campaign
Toyota Australia has unveiled a new phase of its ‘Every Step Matters’ advertising campaign, which puts dealerships at the forefront of its business strategy. The initiative, emphasising local connections, is backed by data analysis of dealership locations and aims to strengthen customer trust nationwide. The campaign, developed in collaboration with Saatchi & Saatchi Australia, creatively… Continue reading Toyota reinforces importance of dealers in advertising campaign
Pinnacle Warranties streamlines processes for dealers and customers
Pinnacle Warranties has teamed up with iWarranty, a software platform to streamline warranty processes and enhance customer experience. iWarranty’s platform integrates with dealer systems, to provide real-time warranty registration, and improve customer engagement and insights. iWarranty unites manufacturers, extended warranty providers, dealers, authorised and out-of-warranty repairers on a single digital platform. Anthony Marshall, director… Continue reading Pinnacle Warranties streamlines processes for dealers and customers
Dealers welcome Bank of England interest rate cut UPDATE
The Bank of England (BoE) has confirmed that interest rates will be cut to 4.5% today, the lowest level since June 2023. The announcement was welcomed by dealers. Sue Robinson, chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), representing car and commercial retailers across the UK said: “The Bank of England has reduced interest rates… Continue reading Dealers welcome Bank of England interest rate cut UPDATE
Dealers welcome Bank of England interest rate cut
The Bank of England (BoE) has confirmed that interest rates will be cut to 4.5% today, the lowest level since June 2023. The announcement was welcomed by dealers. Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), representing car and commercial retailers across the UK commented: “The Bank of England has reduced interest… Continue reading Dealers welcome Bank of England interest rate cut
BLOG Chinese disruption brings opportunities for dealers.
The UK automotive market is no stranger to disruption, having weathered changing consumer preferences, environmental legislation, and the shift toward electrification. However, the rise of Chinese automotive brands represents a unique opportunity for UK car dealers. One thing is clear: disruption creates opportunity, and successful businesses will seize these opportunities to drive growth. According to… Continue reading BLOG Chinese disruption brings opportunities for dealers.
Manor Park Classics acquires Southampton-based Barons Classic Car Auctioneers
Manor Park Classics (MPC) has bought out Barons Classic Car Auctioneers and announced its intention to open four or five auction houses at various strategic locations across the UK. MPC now has a foothold in southern England as Barons, operating in Marchwood on the edge of the New Forest, runs monthly sales of classic cars… Continue reading Manor Park Classics acquires Southampton-based Barons Classic Car Auctioneers
Steve Young Blog: Are dealers in the driving seat?
Headline news in the Dutch press last week was that the Louwman Group had cut all ties with Stellantis, terminating the Opel and Peugeot franchises at retail level from March 1st. This affects a number of dealerships including some acquired just two years ago, formerly Orange Motors. I am not privy to the reasons behind… Continue reading Steve Young Blog: Are dealers in the driving seat?