AI for Automotive: How Great Lakes Auto Group
Leverages VinSolutions Products

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving automotive industry, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. Great Lakes Auto Group, a family-owned dealership founded in 1996, has embraced cutting-edge technology to enhance its operations and customer experience. At the forefront of this transformation is Ryan Huang, a key member of the business development center, who has been instrumental in integrating VinSolutions CRM and Predictive Insights with GenAI into the dealership’s daily operations. 

 

A Legacy of Excellence 

Great Lakes Auto Group was established by Ryan Huang’s father in Ashtabula, Ohio, a small town known for its tight-knit community and agricultural roots. The dealership’s journey began next to Ryan’s grandfather’s gynecology practice, embodying the family’s commitment to community and excellence. Ryan’s father, originally a dentist, chose to pursue his passion for automotive, a decision that initially surprised his family but ultimately led to the creation of a successful dealership. 

After spending his teenage years learning the family business Ryan worked for the Holler-Classic Automotive Group. His experience there taught him the importance of effective communication and leadership, skills he brought back to Great Lakes Auto Group in 2019. Ryan’s dedication to the dealership and his innovative approach have been pivotal in its growth and success 

 

Embracing AI for Automotive 

Great Lakes Auto Group has leveraged AI to streamline its operations and improve customer interactions. VinSolutions CRM and Predictive Insights with GenAI have been game-changers for the dealership, enabling them to sell more cars, save time, and send effective communications. 

Benefits of VinSolutions CRM 

VinSolutions CRM has provided Great Lakes Auto Group with unparalleled support and ease of use. Ryan Huang highlights the seamless integration and the exceptional assistance from the VinSolutions team: “We immediately were met with A-Team, a great team of people. And that team of people is there to assist us whenever we need them, almost 24 hours a day. The one reason VinSolutions has been extremely successful for us is our ease of use and the support we get from the VinSolutions team. 

Predictive Insights with GenAI 

Predictive Insights with GenAI has revolutionized the way Great Lakes Auto Group communicates with its customers. Ryan explains, “Predictive Insights with GenAI helps us be more creative in our message. Working in the BDC or in the sales department, you could write anywhere from 50 to 150 emails a day and text messages. GenAI takes some of that weight off my shoulders, putting it into a process that’s much easier to obtain. 

AI for Automotive: A Competitive Edge 

The integration of AI tools has given Great Lakes Auto Group a competitive edge in the automotive industry. Predictive Insights with GenAI allows the dealership to generate effective responses with call-to-actions, personalized messages, and relevant information, all at the click of a button. This has not only improved customer engagement but also increased showroom visits and sales. This ‘connectivity’ is one of the main reasons Great Lakes uses multiple Cox Automotive products. 

The Value of Performance Management in Sales 

Ryan also appreciates the contributions of Performance Managers: regular check-ins, deep product knowledge, and a third-party perspective.  

Conclusion 

Great Lakes Auto Group’s adoption of AI for automotive through VinSolutions CRM and Predictive Insights with GenAI has transformed its operations and customer interactions. Ryan Huang’s innovative approach and the dealership’s commitment to excellence and community have positioned them as leaders in the industry. As AI continues to evolve, Great Lakes Auto Group is poised to leverage these advancements to further enhance its success and customer satisfaction. 

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