Auto Trader launches ‘Co-Driver’, an AI-powered tool for retailers.
- Aims to reduce listing times and enhance customer experience.
- Co-Driver integrates into existing systems through Auto Trader Connect.
- Initial features focus on image management and AI-generated descriptions.
- Part of a long-term AI investment strategy with significant team backing.
Auto Trader has introduced a new AI platform named ‘Co-Driver’, designed to streamline the process of creating detailed car and van listings. Traditionally, these listings take approximately 30 minutes to complete; however, Co-Driver significantly reduces this time by automating parts of the process.
Retailers can access the full suite of Co-Driver’s features through their Auto Trader Portal accounts, allowing seamless integration with existing third-party systems via Auto Trader Connect. This integration aims to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction by making listings more informative and appealing to buyers.
The initial features include ‘Smart Image Management’, which optimally arranges images based on buyer preferences, ensuring key visual information is not overlooked. Following this, ‘AI-Generated Descriptions’ will simplify the creation of informative content for potential buyers by incorporating direct manufacturer specifications and leveraging extensive customer data across the platform.
Karolina Edwards-Smajda, Chief Product Officer, highlighted that, “Co-Driver marks a massive leap forward in how AI can enhance retailing performance.” With over 400 data scientists and engineers involved, Co-Driver’s development reflects Auto Trader’s decade-long commitment to AI innovation, a strategy that has previously improved sourcing and stocking through advanced Market Health and Retail Rating metrics.
Founded in 1977, Auto Trader remains a prominent player in the UK’s used car market. Its recent annual report indicated a consistent 14% revenue uplift over two years, bringing in more than £570 million this year with a 26% profit margin. This robust financial performance is mirrored in its stock price, which has risen over 20% year-to-date, reflecting market confidence in its continuous growth trajectory.
Auto Trader’s AI-driven approach marks a significant step in evolving how retailers manage and present their inventories, promising future growth and efficiency.
