AutoNation has again hit the gas pedal on its Drive Pink campaign, launching a pair of new initiatives to support pediatric cancer hospitals and organizations.

The auto retailer said it has partnered with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, reinforcing its commitment to cancer patients and expanding the reach of its signature Drive Pink philanthropic effort, which has contributed more than $40 million to cancer research, treatment and patient support.

AutoNation is benefiting CMN Hospitals through a nationwide cash register donation campaign that includes more than 300 stores and collision centers. Through Oct. 16, customers can round up their payment or donate at checkout, with 100% of the funds supporting pediatric cancer efforts at local CMN Hospitals.

The proceeds will stay in the local communities, AutoNation said, and will go toward lifesaving treatments and critical care for children facing cancer diagnoses.

In addition, AutoNation and AutoNation Finance, with the support of financial and legal institutions, have raised $70,000 to purchase a new 2025 Chrysler Pacifica Select passenger van for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation to serve its operational needs and reduce its dependence on rental vehicles.

The donation brings AutoNation’s total contributions to NPCF to more than $460,000 since 2021.

The van will take center stage at a “Rally Funds the Cure” auto rally on Saturday in Tampa. The event honors the 43 children diagnosed with cancer each day in the U.S. with a convoy of 43 vehicles.  During the rally, pediatric cancer warriors will participate by riding along the route in the AutoNation/NPCF van, which will serve as a mobile billboard to raise awareness of pediatric cancer.

“We’re proud to stand with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, two life-changing organizations that make a difference each and every day for children and families facing cancer,” AutoNation CEO Mike Manley said. “These initiatives capture the true spirit of DRV PNK, uniting our associates, customers, partners and communities in driving out cancer and delivering a meaningful difference where it’s needed most.”

AutoNation said its commitment extends beyond financial donations, including employees volunteering their time to assist partner nonprofits and hospitals.

Jim Ellis group renews deal with CDK

CDK announced its latest renewal, with Jim Ellis Automotive Group extending its multi-year partnership with the dealership software provider.

Jim Ellis, which operates 21 dealerships in the Atlanta area, will use the CDK Dealership Xperience platform, including the Fixed Operations Suite and Intelligence Suite. CDK said the dealership group will also receive consulting from CDK Professional Services for solutions tailored to its stores’ evolving CRM, fixed operations and accounting needs.

“CDK has been instrumental in helping us elevate both our sales and service operations. Their expert consulting and tailored approach were key factors in our decision to renew our partnership,” Jim Ellis vice president Stacey Ellis Hodges said. “With CDK solutions, we’re enhancing every step of the customer journey, making it more intuitive, connected and efficient.

“The comprehensive support provided by CDK across our dealership, from the back office to the showroom, continues to drive our long-term growth and success.”

CDK said its software is used by the majority of franchise dealerships in North America, including five of the six publicly held dealership groups in the U.S and the only publicly held dealership group in Canada.