Artificial Intelligence: Helping You Navigate the Complexities of the Modern Automotive Landscape
Monday June 23, 2025
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept – it is changing the way we live and work, and the automotive industry is no exception. AI is already shaping how dealerships operate, connect with consumers, and drive profitability.
Much like the internet revolution of the late 20th century, AI is becoming widely accessible to everyone. The internet was once a novelty and then gradually became an integral part of our day-to-day lives. We’re seeing a similar thing happening with AI but at a MUCH faster pace. From redefining decision-making and personalizing experiences, to enhancing communication and driving efficiency, this AI revolution is disrupting and transforming life as we know it.
Understanding and leveraging AI can unlock significant advantages for you, but what we at Cox Automotive often hear from dealers is that they don’t know where to start. In fact, recent Cox Automotive research shows 40% of dealers say that AI tools can simplify daily tasks, and yet, 41% are hesitant to use AI. While this hesitation is understandable, dealers who take the first step now have the opportunity to lead in a rapidly evolving market and gain competitive advantage.
If you’re a dealer ready to get started with AI, I would start with the same advice I offer any person who is curious about AI: Seek ways to experiment with AI in your work and personal life – it doesn’t have to be overly technical! At home, this can look like using AI for assistance with meal planning, travel recommendations, composing emails, and more.
For dealers, you can use AI in simple and practical ways such as automating routine tasks, drafting marketing messaging, or generating reports. Think of AI as your assistant and start with a few use cases that work best with your organization’s existing processes and tools.
Some common dealer pain points that can be solved using AI include vehicle merchandising, consumer marketing, inventory management, and fixed operations efficiencies. You may not even realize that AI has been working in the background of dealership operations for years, and you may already be reaping the benefits of AI without realizing it. AI powers Cox Automotive solutions like Manheim Market Report (MMR), KBB Valuations, and vAuto’s ProfitTime® GPS, as well as the personalized consumer experiences on Autotrader, KBB.com and Dealer.com websites. The advent of generative AI and more accessible AI applications like ChatGPT have rapidly expanded the use of AI in automotive in even more visible ways.
I also encourage dealers to lean on your industry providers – by collaborating with partners like Cox Automotive, dealerships can explore additional ways to use AI to enhance efficiency and improve operations. For example,
- VinSolutions Predictive Insights with GenAI can quickly write personalized emails or texts to consumer leads in brand tone and with awareness of that consumer’s shopping interests.
- Autotrader’s Intelligent Market Extension will identify markets where inventory is likely to sell the fastest and extend listings to these geographies regardless of your physical location.
If you missed it, our team released a white paper, “AI for Automotive Retailers” earlier this year, which is a great resource to learn more about all things AI. At Cox Automotive, we are relentless in our pursuit of delivering data-driven, innovative solutions developed specifically for automotive dealers like you. From digital imaging at our Manheim auctions to enabling more intelligent deal-making, we are leading the way in delivering value to our dealer clients through data and AI.
The AI revolution in the automotive industry is here, and you have a unique opportunity to lead the charge. By starting with basic applications, using existing tools, and gradually expanding your AI capabilities, you can unlock new levels of efficiency and insight. The journey may seem daunting, but with the right approach, AI can become a powerful ally in navigating the complexities of the modern automotive landscape.
Ben Flusberg, Chief Data Officer
Dr. Ben Flusberg is the Chief Data Officer at Cox Automotive, where he oversees companywide data strategy and governance, AI and machine learning innovation, and data products. He has worked at Cox Automotive for nearly a decade, where he held roles across product management and digital operations before becoming the Chief Data Officer in 2020.