Dealers taking advantage of NextGear Capital’s Self Reconciliation tool are clearing their audits faster than ever while benefitting from a better client experience. This new method significantly shortened the auditing process for dealers from three to five hours, to less than 10 minutes. After only six months, more than 60 percent of clients have utilized Self Reconciliation to manage their floor planned inventory’s auditing. 

“Prior to Self Reconciliation, the auditing process was one of the biggest points of frustration for NextGear Capital’s dealer clients, said Angie Provo, Senior Director of Marketing at NextGear Capital. “The quick adoption rate of this tool demonstrates NextGear Capital’s commitment to delivering new technology and services that ultimately facilitate a better client experience.”

Available inside of NextGear Capital’s Account Portal, Self Reconciliation clears units in real time, provides access to a historical database of previously reconciled units and allows dealers to pay off inventory, all through their mobile device. Additionally, dealership principal owners can now delegate the auditing process without having to share their Account Portal login credentials.

“The frustrating process of clearing audits using a Word of the Day method is now a thing of the past,” said Monique Belgrave, owner, Consumer First Auto Group. “Self Reconciliation means no guess work for my business. Audits are now instantly cleared and managed at a time convenient for me.”

NextGear Capital was determined to create a solution that empowered dealers to save time on their audits while allowing them to focus more on the tasks that drive profitability for their business. Self Reconciliation is that tool.

For more information about Self Reconciliation, visit www.nextgearcapital.com/Self Reconciliation/.

About NextGear Capital
NextGear Capital is the largest independent inventory finance company in North America, providing flexible lines of credit for auto dealers to buy used vehicles from over 1,000 auto and other vehicle sources throughout North America. With a client base of more than 20,000 dealers, NextGear Capital provides comprehensive services and support enabling dealers to buy and sell more inventory through self-service management tools, title services, records management and collateral protection. Headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, NextGear Capital is a Cox Automotive brand. For more information, visit nextgearcapital.com.

Manheim Express Concierge Specialist, Chenita Willis, shares key insights to help any dealer create listings that sell.

ATLANTA, Ga. (August 7, 2019) – Manheim Express, which just celebrated its one-year anniversary, is revolutionizing how quickly dealers can list—and sell—their vehicles digitally in Manheim’s wholesale marketplace. Dealers can either use the app themselves to list vehicles in minutes or call upon the Manheim Express Concierge team to inspect and create vehicle listings for them, as well as offer expert consultations on their wholesale pricing and strategy. 

For those dealers who chose to complete the listings themselves, Manheim tapped into the expertise of one of its Concierge team members, Chenita Willis, to offer up these three tips to create listings that pop:

• Ensure your vehicle is photo ready. 
  First impressions count, so before you start the listing, be sure to pick a vehicle that is as clean as possible. Think of the digital marketplace as a virtual wholesale lot and ensure that any vehicles you list are ready for their closeups. Remember that better condition can bring better bids.

• Take a sharp 360 image.
  Unique to Manheim Express is its unmatched 360-degree imaging capability, giving your potential buyers a virtual walk-around of the vehicle. To take a great 360, you’ll want to be sure you start with the sun at your back to help with picture quality, keep your phone level and steady as you walk quickly in a continual motion around the vehicle, and be as far away from the car as possible—ideally eight to ten feet—to get the entire vehicle into view. 

• Be up front with vehicle damages.
  The best listings are ones that fully capture the condition of the car, including damages. One of the great things about Manheim Express is that the app has the technology that allows you to tag damages with moveable images to help buyers truly understand the condition of the vehicle—coming as close as possible to a live interaction without buyers having to kick the tires. 

“Manheim Express makes it easy for any dealer to create great listings that attract serious bidders and the right buyers,” Willis said. “And when sellers fully disclose all the details buyers need to make informed decisions, they build great reputations that make them a trusted, go-to source with repeat customers.”

With over 60,000 downloads in its first year, the Manheim Express app takes digital wholesaling to a whole new level with unmatched 360-degree imaging, enhanced condition information, and the industry’s only Guaranteed First Bid. With the three tips above, dealers will be well on their way to being power sellers on Manheim Express. 

Dealers who prefer to have a dedicated expert do all the legwork for them can request Manheim Express Concierge Service by reaching out to their Client Sales Executive. In the coming weeks, dealers will also be able to request Manheim Express Concierge service from within the app.

For more information about Manheim Express, visit ManheimExpress.com.

About Manheim (www.manheim.com)

Manheim® is North America's leading provider of end-to-end wholesale solutions that help dealer and commercial clients increase profits in their used vehicle operations. Through its physical, mobile and digital sales network, Manheim offers services for inventory management, buying and selling, floor planning, logistics, assurance and reconditioning. With its omni-channel approach, Manheim Marketplace enables wholesale vehicle clients more efficient ways to connect and transact business how and when they want. Approximately 17,000 team members help Manheim offer 7 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing nearly $61 billion in value. Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim North America is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit http://press.manheim.com.

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IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 6, 2019  -- The 2019-2020 school year is right around the corner, and many parents and students are thinking about their transportation needs to campus and activities. With another semester about to kick-off, the editors at Kelley Blue Book have named the 10 Best Back-to-School Cars of 2019.

"While parents and young drivers may not always agree on the ideal car for going to school, there are some great choices out there that can serve as common ground," said Matt DeLorenzo, senior managing editor for Kelley Blue Book. "We've chosen 10 new cars for students that are a great mix of safe, reliable, cool and affordable, with the fuel-efficient and sporty 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback at the top of the list. The Corolla Hatchback offers an impressive suite of advanced safety features that will ease parents' minds, along with things sure to be high on teens' must-have lists like Apple CarPlay."

In choosing the 10 Best Back-to-School Cars of 2019, KBB.com's expert editors hand-picked a selection of new cars they recommend for students that are available starting around $20,000 or less, according to Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price. Kelley Blue Book® Fair Purchase Price and Fair Market Range are part of KBB.com's Price Advisor tool, showing what consumers can reasonably expect to pay this week in their area for a new vehicle when purchasing from a dealer. Factors such as current market conditions, vehicle availability, local demand, and seasonal buying trends all help determine a vehicle's Fair Market Range and Fair Purchase Price. 

Kelley Blue Book's 10 Best Back-to-School Cars of 2019

*Fair Purchase Prices for base models were sourced on July 27, 2019. Prices are updated weekly and vary based on region.

To see KBB.com's complete coverage of the 10 Best Back-to-School Cars of 2019, including full editorial comments about each model, pricing details, vehicle photography, inventory and more, visit https://www.kbb.com/car-reviews-and-news/top-10/best-back-to-school-cars/2100007646/.

Car Shopping and Buying Tips for Students and Parents:

To help ensure driving and ownership satisfaction into the coming school year and beyond, follow these guidelines for getting the right car at the right price:

• - Do Your Research: All the information you need to make a smart car-buying decision is available at KBB.com, including both expert and consumer reviews and ratings, Price Advisor information including Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price, side-by-side comparisons, safety and reliability ratings, and more.

• - Know What It Is Going to Cost You: Once you've narrowed it down to a few models that you are interested in, be sure to check out not only what it will cost you up front to buy the car, but also what it will cost you over time to own the vehicle. KBB.com's 5-Year Cost-to-Own information for new cars can help you determine both.

• - Drive At Least Two or Three Different Models: It's easy to enjoy a test drive in the vehicle at the top of your list, but without driving one or two others to compare, you might easily miss out on something you'd like even more.

• - If Buying New: Always use a vehicle's Fair Purchase Price, not Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), as your basis for comparing vehicles and negotiating with the dealer. Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price reflects the prices people are typically paying a dealer for a new car, based on new-car transactions and adjusted regularly as market conditions change. Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price may be hundreds or even thousands of dollars less than MSRP.

• - If Buying Used: Whether buying from a private party or a dealer, it's always a good idea to have any used vehicle checked out by a reputable independent service shop. When purchasing from an individual, check out the private-party value from KBB.com as well as Kelley Blue Book's Condition Quiz. These items will help you determine the "actual" condition and value of the vehicle.

• - Consider Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): When you buy a CPO vehicle, you get the value of buying a used car with the peace of mind that comes from getting new-car-like features, such as a manufacturer-backed vehicle warranty, full vehicle inspection and more. Learn more about buying CPO, compare all manufacturer CPO programs and even search for CPO vehicle inventory in your local area on KBB.com.

• - Shop Online: Use the Internet to find the exact vehicles local dealers in your area currently have on their lots. You can check out inventory in the 'Cars for Sale' section on KBB.com to save the time and hassle of driving around from dealership to dealership. This way you can choose wisely which models you want to go test drive.

• - Parents: Don't buy a car for your teen without driving it yourself, as your experience can help you identify problems or shortcomings that your teen may not notice. Also, trust your own judgment and don't let your teen talk you into buying a vehicle with which you're not fully comfortable.

• - Teens: Do all of your homework before you meet with mom or dad; show them you are responsible and ready for a car, and make it easy for them to say "yes" to your well-researched choice.

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kelleybluebook (or @kelleybluebook), like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kbb, and follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kbb_com/ (or @kbb_com).

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)
Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the automotive industry. Each week the company provides market-reflective values on its top-rated website KBB.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In Values and Kelley Blue Book® Price Advisor tool, which provides a range for what consumers can reasonably expect to pay for a vehicle in their area. Car owners looking to sell immediately can also get a redeemable, transaction-ready offer with Kelley Blue BookSM Instant Cash Offer. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies, and governmental agencies. Kelley Blue Book is a Cox Automotive brand.

BURLINGTON, Vt., August 1, 2019 –Dealer.com, the premier digital marketing solution and partner for auto dealerships, understands the consumer’s car buying process has changed dramatically as technology disrupts the industry. As such, Dealer.com recently launched its new premier digital storefront solution designed for dealers to engage customers in the fastest and most effective manner possible. The solution increases transparency and improves trust between the dealer and customer to ultimately drive engagement, deliver stronger leads and increase sales.

“We understand what motivates customers and how they connect with dealers,” said Wayne Pastore, general manager of Dealer.com. “The way to bolster dealer-customer relationships is to establish strong points of interaction between dealers and consumers through an unrivaled combination of data, integration and human-centric insights.”

To accomplish this, Dealer.com continues to create the most progressive and complete digital storefront, including redesigning their Vehicle Detail Pages (VDPs) and innovating their website platform offerings based on the 1.8 billion online interactions conducted between dealers and their clients.

Dealer.com is making significant investments in new technology, innovations for dealers and the market as a whole.  When researching VDP activity, Dealer.com found shoppers were most engaged by vehicle photos, prioritized high-level inventory details and requested clear options and packages display. They also sought increased digital retailing options.

The new VDPs now incorporate:

• - 360-degree vehicle images on inventory pages for consumers through partnership with Homenet.

• - Key vehicle information for consumers, including easily visible detailed inventory specifications, options and packages and vehicle reviews.

• - Increased ability for consumers to click through to digital retailing options that include payment calculation, trade-in details and financial applications.

• - Added text to phone functionality so shoppers can send listings directly from desktop to their mobile devices.

In addition to all-new responsive VDPs, Dealer.com launched new website capabilities through an all-new codebase that makes it easier for dealers to implement changes. The new platform also automates personalized vehicle inventory recommendations and specials based on customer preference data from partners Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader.

As a result of these customer-centric innovations, the new digital storefront has been well-received by dealers and earned Dealer.com several awards in the past year, including two consecutive Automotive Website Awards, the Highest Rated SEO Provider and Driving Sales Dealers' Choice Award for Top Rated Website Provider.

Dealer.com’s new digital storefront leverages superior content, digital tools and professional services to solve the problems and challenges dealers and their customers face now and in the future.

To learn more about the driving force of the revamped digital storefront solution from Dealer.com, visit https://drivingforcedealer.com.

ATLANTA, Ga. (July 25, 2019) – Manheim Express officially turns one year old this month—and there’s a lot for dealers to celebrate. Since the app launched in 2018, Manheim has continued to raise the stakes in digital wholesaling with a slew of new features designed to elevate the client experience, including more bidding and buying options, a dedicated buyer experience and an ever-expanding Concierge workforce. Today, Manheim is bringing even more value to dealers with two new enhancements: a Condition Report Grade on all Concierge-listed vehicles and the ability to Request a Concierge right from the app.

“Since Manheim Express launched its Concierge force earlier this year, the service has proven invaluable to dealers looking to save time and benefit from expert advice in navigating the industry’s strongest wholesale marketplace,” said Derek Hansen, vice president of Offsite Solutions at Manheim. “And now, as we thank dealers for helping to grow Manheim Express, we’re raising the bar with this free service to make the experience even better for buyers and sellers alike.”

With hundreds of field representatives across the nation, Manheim Express Concierge provides dealers with a dedicated expert to help them sell vehicles. This service ensures dealers are able to have their vehicles listed with the latest digital tools, maximizing profits and quickly turning inventory, all from their dealership lots. Manheim Express Concierge saves dealers time, as specialists offer end-to-end service, from inspecting and listing vehicles to consulting with clients on their wholesale remarketing strategies.

This unparalleled service just got better, thanks to these new additions:

• Condition Grade for Concierge-Listed Vehicles
  Vehicles listed by a Manheim Express Concierge have always carried a special badge to show buyers that the unit has been inspected by a highly trained specialist. Now, those listings will carry an official Condition Grade. For buyers, the Condition Grade gives them more information to assess the fit of a vehicle for their needs. Sellers benefit, as the feature opens up the buying audience by ensuring their vehicles show up in grade-specific searches.

• Request a Concierge
  With the expanding popularity of the Concierge service, Manheim is making it even easier for dealers to request a Manheim Express specialist. In August, dealers will see a new “Request Concierge Service” button in the seller portion of the app, which will automatically trigger a request to the Concierge team. Within 48 hours, the dealer will be contacted and be well on his or her way to saving time and selling their vehicles quickly.

In just one year, Manheim Express has been downloaded by nearly 60,000 users representing 18,500 dealerships across the U.S. Among dealers’ favorite features are the 360-degree imaging with movable-image damage tags that bring the digital experience closer to an in-person look, graded condition reporting that surfaces potential issues so dealers can assess units faster, a Guaranteed First Bid that guarantees a vehicle will sell within two sale-days at an agreed-upon price or higher, and daily auction times that bring more eyeballs to inventory so it sells for the best price.

“Launching the Manheim Express app was just the beginning,” Hansen added. “With our dealers top of mind, our team has worked tirelessly to bring even more impactful features and services—and we’re not slowing down anytime soon.”

For more information about Manheim Express, visit ManheimExpress.com.

About Manheim (www.manheim.com)

Manheim® is North America's leading provider of end-to-end wholesale solutions that help dealer and commercial clients increase profits in their used vehicle operations. Through its physical, mobile and digital sales network, Manheim offers services for inventory management, buying and selling, floor planning, logistics, assurance and reconditioning. With its omni-channel approach, Manheim Marketplace enables wholesale vehicle clients more efficient ways to connect and transact business how and when they want. Approximately 17,000 team members help Manheim offer 7 million used vehicles annually, facilitating transactions representing nearly $61 billion in value. Headquartered in Atlanta, Manheim North America is a Cox Automotive™ brand. For more information, visit http://press.manheim.com.

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IRVINE, Calif., July 25, 2019  -- Kelley Blue Book was honored with the St. Jude Children's Hospital Partner Campaign of the Year Award for its 2018 "Turn Your Car into Good Karma" partnership with Charitable Adult Rides & Services (CARS).

Throughout the campaign—July 2018 through September 2018—Kelley Blue Book received 1,067 vehicle donations across 257 nonprofit organizations. Of the total, 406 were St. Jude's vehicle donations, raising more than $180,000 ahead of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September. This included Kelley Blue Book's pledge of an additional $25,000 to support life-saving research and treatments.

"We are humbled to be recognized by a great cause like St. Jude Children's Hospital," said Colin MacGillivray, vice president and general manager of Kelley Blue Book. "A donor's vehicle contribution helps make a real difference to families who rely on St. Jude's support in their time of need. We are proud to have raised both awareness and funds for the cause, and we are looking forward to continuing this longstanding partnership."

Through Charitable Adult Rides & Services (CARS), a full-service non-profit organization, consumers can donate any vehicle on KBB.com. For car owners with an automobile they consider past its prime and interested in contributing to a charitable cause, CARS offers an alternative and charitable means to dispose of their vehicles. Since the donation feature on KBB.com launched in April 2018, nearly 3,000 cars have been donated to more than 600 different nonprofits—raising more than $1 million to various nonprofits chosen by the owner.

Donating a vehicle to a charity offers tax benefits while supporting a good cause. The donation may be a deductible item—as opposed to a tax credit—on car owners filing next year for the current calendar period. There are many benefits to donating, and with free pick-up, it's especially worthwhile if the car is worth $1,000 or less. From July 2019 – September 2019 Kelley Blue Book will pledge an incremental $100 to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital for each model, up to 250 vehicles, donated through Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September1.

To learn more, visit KBB.com/donate-your-car. To make a monetary donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, visit StJude.org/donatecox.

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kelleybluebook (or @kelleybluebook), like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kbb, and follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kbb_com/ (or @kbb_com).

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)
Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the automotive industry. Each week the company provides market-reflective values on its top-rated website KBB.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In Values and Kelley Blue Book® Price Advisor tool, which provides a range for what consumers can reasonably expect to pay for a vehicle in their area. Car owners looking to sell immediately can also get a redeemable, transaction-ready offer with Kelley Blue BookSMInstant Cash Offer. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies, and governmental agencies. Kelley Blue Book is a Cox Automotive brand.

About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company's 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

1 Up to $25,000

ATLANTA, July 24, 2019 – Cannonballs into pools won’t be the only thing making a splash this summer. Thanks to Autotrader, car shoppers can spend more time soaking up the sun instead of endlessly surfing the web for the perfect used vehicle. Autotrader’s experts have made it easy for people to quickly find the 10 Hottest Used Cars for Summer 2019, which were selected based on the most-searched vehicles on Autotrader.com. If you’re a believer in the saying “there’s safety in numbers,” you’ll want to check out this list.

“All of these vehicles are hot in their own way, but one thing that won’t burn you this summer is their price,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “These used cars represent significant savings over their brand-new counterparts and offer great value while maintaining a modern feel. All are smart choices that will save shoppers some extra cash to plan their next weekend getaway.”

Autotrader’s 10 Hottest Used Cars for Summer 2019[1]

Chevrolet Corvette (2014-2019)

The Chevrolet Corvette C7 is an outstanding send-off to the front-engine layout, which is well equipped with a range of spectacular V8 engines. More than just powerful, the Corvette has agile handling, a comfortable ride and a high-tech interior that is aging well so far.

Chevrolet Silverado (2014-2018)

At the intersection of modern and affordable, the previous generation of the Chevrolet Silverado hits the sweet spot for value. This truck offers strong capabilities, a quiet, comfortable interior and more traditional styling that consumers might prefer over the controversial look of the new generation.

Chevrolet Tahoe (2015-2019)

Our data shows certified pre-owned Chevy Tahoe models are highly searched on Autotrader – likely because they offer fairly strong value by providing a discount from depreciation while still coming with a manufacturer-backed warranty.

Ford F-Series (2015-2019)

Equipped with an excellent range of engines, strong towing and hauling capabilities and agile handling, the Ford F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for good reason.

Ford Mustang (2015-2019)

Recently redesigned in 2015, a lightly used Ford Mustang has a lot of bang for the buck with a budget-friendly price. This generation of Mustang combines great looks, excellent performance and strong value in one package that’s hard for consumers to resist.

GMC Sierra (2014-2018)

Mechanically identical to the Chevy Silverado, the Sierra is also all-new for 2019, but its previous generation beginning in 2014 is a bargain for used trucks. The old Sierra might not have the cool MultiPro tailgate, but if you can live without a tailgate that can turn into a desk, then a used model is worth a look.

Honda Accord (2018-2019)

The decline of sedans is evident by this list, but the fact the Honda Accord is the only one that made the cut says a lot about it. It has the basics of what you’d expect like comfort, safety and reliability, plus the Accord adds lively performance, a lot of safety technology and a luxurious interior in the high trims.

Jeep Wrangler (2012-2017)

The iconic Jeep Wrangler is a great buy on the used car market, especially if you’re shopping in the JK generation. The JK is a fun off-roader that offers a lot in family-friendliness with the four-door Unlimited model and any model after 2012 has a standard 4x4 drive, stronger V6 engine and new automatic transition.

Ram 1500 (2014-2018)

Rounding out the “big three” in American full-size trucks is the Ram 1500. Among this truck’s many virtues are impressive interior materials, a smooth, comfortable ride and an aesthetic that still refuses to be ignored today. What’s better? It can start as low as around $15,000!

Toyota Tacoma (2016-2019)

The Toyota Tacoma midsize pickup truck was fully redesigned for 2016, enhancing everything people loved about the Tacoma – things like reliability, safety and performance. The Tacoma impresses on-road with a well-built interior and a strong optional V6 engine, which we recommend since it is a lot more affordable used than it is new.

Autotrader’s Hottest Used Cars for Summer 2019 list features the most-search cars, trucks and SUVs on Autotrader’s website from January 1, 2019 to July 8, 2019 (ranked by search volume). To learn more about the 10 Hottest Used Cars for Summer 2019, including full coverage and available inventory, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/10-hottest-used-cars-summer-2019-281474979942389.

1 The vehicles are listed in alphabetical order.

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, and add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com).

About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com.  

About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling and owning cars easier for everyone. The global company's 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

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As a leader in the remarketing industry, Manheim takes a “Grow Our Own” approach to fill the gap in developing auto technician talent.

ATLANTA, Ga. (July 22, 2019) –Prompted by a severe shortage of auto technicians nationwide and fast-growing need by clients for the company’s reconditioning services, Manheim has launched its own apprentice program. Across its reconditioning network, Manheim anticipates a significant increase in demand in 2019 and beyond.

“With the need for auto technicians rapidly outpacing the number of qualified candidates, it’s critical that we invest in growing our own talent to meet the evolving needs of our clients,” said Grace Huang, president of Manheim. “The Manheim Apprentice Program is a way for us to develop the next generation of skilled technicians to meet not only the growing needs of today’s dealerships, but also tomorrow’s mobility providers.”

The Manheim Apprentice Program (MAP) is designed to help its operating locations nationwide identify, recruit and hire entry-level auto technicians for their reconditioning centers. It offers two recruitment paths: one for external candidates with technical experience and another for internal team members interested in becoming a technician.

The 12-week program is designed to help equip apprentices with the necessary skills and knowledge to advance to a part-time or full-time entry level position. Apprentices enrolled in the program are supported by Manheim team members who serve as mentors to guide them in their development and training. With a full range of tools provided by Manheim, apprentices complete up to 480 hours of training under the guidance of their mentors.

The MAP program comes at a time where many people believe that pursuing an auto technician career is undesirable based on outdated ideas about the earning potential and career path. However, with new technologies being used, today’s technicians are more technologically-driven and work with their minds as much as their hands.

Samantha Flores, currently an apprentice at Manheim San Antonio and daughter of an experienced mechanic, was working at a job that she didn’t see long-term potential in—then an online ad for the Manheim Apprentice Program caught her attention. 

“I was a night security officer at a home improvement store, and I just didn’t see a future in that role,” said Flores. “When I saw an ad for the Manheim Apprentice Program, I knew it would be a great opportunity. I love the diversity of learning experiences I’m getting—it’s helping me with time management and growing into a solid mechanic with a bright future."

In addition to launching its own apprentice program, Manheim is continuing its relationship with TechForce Foundation, an organization dedicated to educating parents and middle school and high school students about the new era of the auto technician.

“We have some of the best auto technicians in the country, but an industry-wide shortage of entry-levels professionals has made recruiting and training an urgent priority,” Huang added. “As a leader in the industry, we’re taking every opportunity to promote this valuable, and needed, career path.”

Currently, 19 Manheim locations across the country are participating in the auto technician apprentice program. Later this year, the program is expected to expand to include Body Shop and Paint technicians. For more information on MAP, interested candidates should inquire at MAP@coxautoinc.com.

ATLANTA, July 23, 2019 – As employee turnover across the U.S. reaches new heights and competition for talent redefines the workforce, dealerships find themselves at the epicenter of the struggle to attract and retain skilled workers. Fortunately, the Cox Automotive 2019 Dealership Staffing Study reveals an optimistic forecast with younger generation showing a greater interest in dealership jobs than older generations.

According to the latest study, approximately 20% of all dealership staff are likely to look for another job in the next six months, with one-third of non-management employees feeling neutral or unsatisfied with their jobs. These figures indicate high-risk potential for dealerships to lose a portion of their sales staff, which has an estimated 80% turnover rate, yet remains the group most likely to influence car buyer satisfaction, according to the Cox Automotive 2019 Car Buyer Journey Study.

“The good news is that dealerships have an opportunity to reverse this trend,” said Isabelle Helms, vice president, research and market intelligence, Cox Automotive. “A new generation is entering the workforce and bringing with them a renewed interest in working at a dealership. To attract and retain employees in this highly competitive job market, dealerships should understand which benefits and cultural attributes employees value most and take action to effect positive changes within their store.”

Among Gen Z and Young Millennials, more than 30% are interested in working for a dealership, even higher when roles other than sales are presented to them, according to the study. This interest is nearly 10 percentage points higher than interest shown by Older Millennials and Gen X.

With approximately 61 million members of Gen Z starting to enter the U.S. workforce, dealerships have a chance to build a culture that attracts and retains this younger, tech-savvy talent. However, if they want to win over this next generation, dealerships must address significant gaps in today’s auto retail workplace culture, according to the 2019 Dealership Staffing Study.

• - Dealership employee engagement is fading with one-third of dealership staff employees saying that they are not engaged nor excited about their jobs.

• - Only half of non-management employees say their manager meets with them regularly to set goals that stretch their capabilities and grow their skills.

• - The absence of work/life balance can lead to staff turnover with 40% of former dealership staff saying they left due to a work/life balance-related issue.

• - A mere 39% of dealership staff believe their dealership is using the latest technology.

“Dealers can’t afford to take their eyes off their employees’ needs,” said Bob Kostkan, senior director with Cox Automotive University. “With record high dealership turnover and a low unemployment rate of 3.7% as of June 2019, it’s critical that dealership leaders improve productivity while also enhancing employee engagement and retention. These are controllable issues that must be addressed to maximize customer experience and profitability.”

Dealerships need to act now to create a culture that makes employees feel valued and shows them they have future growth opportunities. While participating in the Cox Automotive SHIFT/Reinvent Program in 2015, John Cragg, executive vice president for the Penske Automotive Group’s East Region and responsible for dozens of rooftops and thousands of employees, became aware of a blind spot — he was “delegating” when he should have been “empowering.” As a result of this new awareness, he worked strategically with his HR and marketing teams to shift the focus to be more about empowering people and giving them opportunities to contribute in more significant ways. Cragg has since seen consistent year-over-year improvement in employee turnover and satisfaction. His region now has the highest employee satisfaction scores in the company and the lowest turnover — outpacing industry averages, even for the highest performers.

In addition to empowering and engaging staff, dealerships should also invest in modern, user-friendly technology to help drive greater productivity and efficiency for employees. Having access to the latest technology is not only expected by these younger generations but required to succeed as a business in today’s digital age. To get the most out of technology, dealerships must also implement ongoing training opportunities. Equipping employees with the necessary tools to help them grow their skillsets and better take advantage of new technology will create happier workers and a more optimized workflow.

Download highlights from the Cox Automotive’s 2019 Dealership Staffing Study. Find out more about Cox Automotive University.

About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five countries and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

TUCSON, Ariz. – July 18, 2019— AudioEye, Inc. (NASDAQ: AEYE), a leading developer of digital accessibility solutions that provide barrier-free website access for individuals with disabilities, has entered into a premier partnership with Dealer.com, a Cox Automotive brand. This relationship amplifies the commitment from Dealer.com to further expand and accelerate the adoption of AudioEye in the automotive industry, making it easier and more cost-effective for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) seeking to adopt ADA-compliance strategies that extend to their retailers. The partnership prioritizes digital accessibility as leading car brands seek to ensure ADA compliance across their digital ecosystems, including the dealer marketers representing their brands online.

“We are thrilled to expand our relationship between Dealer.com and AudioEye,” said Bob George, associate vice president, Products for Dealer.com. “As we continue to introduce new digital solutions to make buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone, it’s crucial these solutions are barrier-free so that every individual is able to use them for their advantage.”

“Our expanded partnership with Dealer.com will allow us to offer more of their clients a practical and affordable path to achieving a holistic, trusted and sustainable web accessibility strategy, ensuring compliance with ADA-related requirements and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1,” said Sean Bradley, AudioEye co-founder, president and chief strategy officer. “With Dealer.com leveraging its market standing and commiting to represent AudioEye in the automotive landscape, we can focus more effort on ensuring our ability to implement and maintain accessibility on a much broader scale.”

To learn more about what constitutes of a barrier-free user experience, please visit www.audioeye.com.

About AudioEye, Inc. 
AudioEye is a technology company serving businesses committed to providing equal access to their digital content. Through patented technology, subject matter expertise and proprietary processes, AudioEye is transforming how the world experiences digital content. Leading with technology, AudioEye identifies and resolves issues of accessibility and enhances the user experience, making digital content more accessible and more usable for more people.

AudioEye's common stock trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol "AEYE."  The Company maintains offices in Tucson, Scottsdale, Atlanta and Washington D.C. For more information about AudioEye and its online accessibility solutions, please visit www.audioeye.com.

About Dealer.com

Dealer.com provides an integrated platform of Advertising, Website and Managed Services products which allow OEMs, dealer groups, retailers and agencies to leverage advanced digital technology and data to better engage and connect with their customers. The company practices a deep commitment to its culture of innovation, with a focus on health and wellness, making it one of the most desirable places to work, and a valuable partner for automotive retailers. Based in Burlington, Vermont, Dealer.com is a Cox Automotive brand. For more information, visit www.dealer.com.