Expert Outlooks: Marianne Johnson

Cox Automotive experts provide unique insights and perspectives to help you make the most of NADA2025 and the year ahead.

Marianne Johnson, EVP and Chief Product Officer, shares her take on data and artificial intelligence – and  how Cox Automotive is using these to move the industry forward. 


Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days, and automotive retail is no exception. Interest in and adoption of AI have skyrocketed.  From automation to the use of generative AI for predictive insights, the space continues to evolve.  

 Already, AI has improved dealer and buyer connections. Giving machines tasks they can do faster and better opens more time for humans to do what we are best at: needs assessment, problem solving, and delivering personalized customer service. 

  • AI is only as good as the data that powers it – and not all data is created equal. You need high-quality, accurate, timely, and comprehensive data – just like we have here at Cox Automotive
  • We’ve heard that many dealers think the term AI can be confusing and is overused. Instead of focusing on the technology, I encourage you to think about the outcome. What can AI help you accomplish? What problems can it help solve for you?
  • Cox Automotive is putting the power of data and AI to work for you within our solutions. We’re focused on helping you create lasting relationships with your customers and operate more efficiently. 

Our team recently released a comprehensive “Artificial Intelligence for Automotive Retailers” eBook to help dealers better understand AI for automotive retail and how it can benefit dealership operations.  I encourage you to take advantage of this informative resource.  

 As the automotive industry evolves, embracing and harnessing the power of data-driven insights will be key to driving profitable growth. In a landscape of startups and tech giants alike launching new AI tools or innovating upon existing offerings, dealers should seek a digital-first partner that is uniquely rooted in the automotive industry with product, technology, data, and expertise.  Whether you are a general manager, in marketing or sales, in fixed ops or the back office, our team is ready to share how we are harnessing our data intelligence engine for you. 

I’m excited to see many of you in New Orleans at NADA2025. I hope you’ll stop by to see me and the rest of the Cox Automotive team at booth #2306. We can’t wait to show you our latest innovations and how we can partner to transform your business! 


Reserve your seat. We are excited to see you at NADA2025.