IRVINE, Calif. -

A new partnership could help retailers “evolve their businesses to effectively compete and win in an increasingly digital world," said Digital Motors chief executive officer Andy Hinrichs.

The partnership is between automotive retail and financial technology company Digital Motors and Orange Coast Auto Group.

Hinrichs said in a news release that the partnership "underscores our commitment to building value for car dealerships.”

Following an investment, Gray has joined Digital Motors as chief strategist and advisor. Digital Motors says Gray’s Orange Coast Auto Group is one of the largest Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealerships in the United States.

Coupled with a digital lending consulting practice, Digital Motors operates a proprietary SaaS platform and provides customizable online stores and in-dealership software products. The company says it advises high-profile automotive lending space clients.

Digital Motors says it recognizes the importance of structuring “penny-perfect, transactable monthly payments.” It is a fintech company with algorithms that it says “balance customer empowerment and dealer profitability.”

Gray said he was excited to be part of a team of “digital retailing innovators.” His company, Orange Coast Auto Group LLC, owns and operates car dealerships in Costa Mesa, Calif., representing Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Preowned Superstore, and OC Motorsports. In 2017, Gray served as chair of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles National Dealer Council, and in 2011 he also served as president of the Orange County Dealers Association.

“Digital Motors is on the forefront of enabling dealerships with cutting-edge solutions that drive efficiency, improve margins, and increase customer satisfaction,” Gray said.

Digital Motors describes itself as being “built to be hyper configurable” in fulfilling dealerships’ unique business needs. The company said the new partnership will strengthen its ability to anticipate its B2B clientele’s needs.