IRVINE, Calif. — In a unique way to reach out to budding auto journalists, Kelley Blue Book's Kbb.com is holding a contest where car enthusiasts can make their own vehicle review videos and submit them for the chance to win $10,000 and be a KBB editor for a day. To participate, contestants simply film a two-minute or less […] [Read More]

CLIFTON PARK, N.Y. — Executives from Auto/Mate Dealership Systems highlighted on Tuesday they completed two crucial integration points intended to help several dealership departments at Mazda franchise stores. The integration connects their Automotive Management Productivity Suite and Mazda North American Operations dealership communication system. The first advancement involved the Mazda Vehicle Invoice Integration, a function the company […] [Read More]

CENTREVILLE, Va. — Carfax recently rolled out a new tool the company believes can leverage the value of its Vehicle History Reports even further. Executives explained the concept behind the Carfax History Impact is to give dealers a unique look at a vehicle's value. They detailed that by analyzing market pricing and millions of used-vehicle transactions, […] [Read More]

CHICAGO — To make the auto research process more efficient for shoppers looking for family vehicles, Cars.com is now housing all of its family car-related content in one resource that it is calling the Family Buying Guide. This consolidated section will encompass such tools as the "mom-focused" Motherproof.com blog, lifestyle buying guides and special advice sections […] [Read More]

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Advanced Business Computers of America recently enhanced its DMS solution Deal Pack so it now integrates the underwriting and analysis tool from Kistler Automotive. Executives explained that dealers who already use Deal Pack can immediately access the Kistler tool. They noted that Kistler's solution includes insurance tracking services, insurance underwriting, voluntary physical damage […] [Read More]

ATLANTA — AutoTrader.com is rolling out a new advertising campaign today across multiple channels — including Web, TV and business-to-business avenues — that will demonstrate the research tools, information and vehicle inventory the company can offer to help shoppers make the best purchase decision. What AutoTrader.com calls the centerpiece of the "Heart & Mind" campaign are two 30-second TV spots that […] [Read More]

YONKERS, N.Y. — ConsumerReports.org recently unveiled on its Cars Blog what it considers to be the top vehicles for teen drivers. The site recognized 13 models across three categories: small cars, family cars and small SUVs. Each of the vehicles was "recommended" by the publication. As most know, to gain this tag, vehicles must have a […] [Read More]

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — To help generate more leads and improve conversion rates, AutoUSA is offering dealers Kelley Blue Book's LeadDriver, which is designed to incorporate KBB Trade-In Values into a dealership's Web site while, at the same time, obtaining lead information. LeadDriver provides dealers with a shopper's contact information, as well as details about trade-in, how much it […] [Read More]

DAYTON, Ohio — Reynolds and Reynolds said Wednesday it has rolled out a few upgrades to its WebMakerX 2.0 dealership Web site program that can help dealers improve the functionality and flexibility of their Web sites.  Reynolds Web Solutions' enhancements to the product include improved organic search-engine optimization and a new blogging solution.  Basically, these upgrades […] [Read More]

ATLANTA and SEATTLE — Contact At Once, a provider of dealer chat software, and Cobalt announced a new partnership on Tuesday. The deal means an enhanced version of Contact At Once's chat solution can be integrated into Cobalt's dealer Web site suite. Executives highlighted that dealers now can support more shoppers' natural communications preferences with the […] [Read More]