AutoTrader has launched a ChatGPT integration that lets Canadian consumers search its marketplace using conversational prompts. The company described the move as a first for Canadian automotive marketplaces.
They said the feature allows users to ask ChatGPT for specific vehicles, including SUVs, trucks, electric vehicles or models in a particular region, with relevant AutoTrader listings displayed directly in the chat. Consumers can then click through to detailed listings on AutoTrader to view vehicle information and contact the seller.
The company said it has been using artificial intelligence to improve search relevance and vehicle discovery as consumer behaviour shifts toward more intuitive, conversational interfaces. “We’ve seen tremendous change in how Canadians shop for cars, and our focus on innovation continues to shape how we respond to these shifts in the car shopping journey,” said Justin Re, Chief Product Officer at AutoTrader, in a statement.
Following ChatGPT’s App Store announcement, Re said they moved quickly to bring its marketplace to the platform. For dealers, the company said the rollout could increase exposure for inventory already listed on AutoTrader by making those listings discoverable through new search channels inside ChatGPT.
Users can access the integration by connecting the AutoTrader app through ChatGPT’s “Apps” section. The integration supports both English and French and was built in partnership with OpenAI, AutoTrader said, as part of what it calls an “AI-first” strategy.
