CURRENT EVENTS

Keyloop Bets on AI Search With New GEO Tool

Keyloop just launched something they’re calling Generative Engine Optimization—a service to help dealers show up in Google’s new AI search results.

Instead of ranking for keywords, it’s about being included in the answers AI gives directly to users. Keyloop says this could lower cost per lead by up to 70% based on early marketing tests.

But like most things in AI search, it’s early. The rules will likely keep changing.

👉 Read more

Takeaway: Worth watching. But if a vendor says they’ve “cracked” AI search, ask for receipts.

CarGurus PriceVantage: Smarter Pricing or Just Smarter Marketing?

CarGurus announced a major revamp of their pricing tool, now branded PriceVantage, claiming 5X faster turns and 68% more VDPs in beta stores.

The pitch: It uses shopper behavior to suggest price drops that align with market demand and predicted turn velocity. It plugs into your DMS and gives you comp data and automated adjustments.

But keep in mind: These are internal metrics from a vendor with a lot riding on its software revenue goals. Most stores haven’t seen it yet in action.

👉 Read more

Takeaway: Try it, test it, and watch results closely. If it works, it should show up in your 30–60 day aging bucket within weeks.

Tekion’s AI Agents Are Live—But Can They Really Sell?

Tekion’s newest rollout adds AI Agents to its ARC platform. These are digital assistants that handle everything from service write-ups to Toyota build integrations.

Early numbers claim service write-up times dropped from 18 to 4 minutes. Sales and F&I modules are rolling out next.

But automation only works if your team trusts it. And most stores still live and die by what the desk sees in real time.

👉 Read more

Takeaway: A strong backend tool if you’re already on Tekion. But don’t expect plug-and-play magic. These tools still need hands-on oversight.

Impel and RockED Want to Certify Your Team on AI

The Automotive AI Certification from Impel and RockED has picked up steam. It’s free, mobile, and focused on dealership roles—BDC, sales, service, etc.

There are 70+ bite-size lessons, and they claim certified reps see 41% faster responses and 19% more appointments. It’s gamified, and you can track team progress inside the app.

👉 Read more

Takeaway: No downside here. Even if the numbers are inflated, you get a baseline AI vocabulary across your team without pulling people off the floor.

Cox Readiness Study: Everyone’s Talking About AI, Few Are Using It

Cox Automotive’s latest AI Readiness Report surveyed 537 dealers. It’s clear: Most are still on the sidelines.

• 81% believe AI is here to stay

• 63% say early investment will pay off

• But only 15% are actually using AI tools consistently

Those who are using it report 8–12% operational lift, mostly in lead quality and efficiency gains. Cox also points to VinSolutions’ predictive shopper scoring as one area showing traction.

👉 Read the study

Takeaway: Look at what tools you already pay for. If they have an AI feature, test it. No reason to pay for hype you’re not even using.

Bottom Line

This week’s vendors are pitching efficiency, smarter pricing, and better visibility. Just remember, marketing slides are not proof. Run your own test. Pick one tool. Measure real outcomes. Keep what works.

And if you’re still not sure what to try? Start with what you already own and turn on the AI features.

Thanks for reading. Hit me up and let me know what you think I should cover next week!

— Adam