Comment

Comment by Ryan Gerardi on May 23, 2011 at 11:06pm

Curious to know where and how AutoTrader's acquisition of these companies will technologically consolidate and centralize things for dealers. For instance, will VINSolutions and HomeNet's IOL become a single system? How will KBB be integrated with these two? And when?

There may be bits and pieces that connect here and there over the next few years, but I do not think it is realistic to expect these acquisitions to simply connect or integrate everything. There is only so much integration that can occur and while dealers may desire this and voice this, I don't see how consolidating technology and vendors is the medicine dealers truly need.

With a vested interest, proper training and education (which you yourself advocate), the lack of technological consolidation becomes less of an issue. Learn the tools. Use the tools. Study the reports. Make adjustments.

Technological integration where it make sense is a good thing, but not for the sake of being or claiming integrated. These acquisitions have more to do with AutoTrader owning information that makes them more powerful in the marketplace to consumers. Which they surely will be.

Comment by Michael Baker on May 22, 2011 at 11:25am

Thank you Brian for your astute assesment. Coming from the Dealer Board of Advisors meeting two weeks ago, the vision of tying all the new acquistions of KBB, VAuto, Homenet and niow Vinsolutions is becoming a very transparent model for consumers in combination with other partners, TIM and New Vehicle merchandising continuing to enhance this 4 year endeavour.

Comment by Marsh Buice on May 21, 2011 at 1:53pm

Thank you Brian for your post. We just signed up with Autotrader and look forward to doing business with them.