CarGurus Adds AI-Powered Search
Source: pymnts.com
CarGurus Launches AI Search
CarGurus has incorporated an artificial intelligence search feature into its platform for purchasing new and used cars. This search function enables users to employ conversational language to find cars that suit their requirements, make model comparisons, and improve search results, according to a Monday (June 9) press release.
AI Search Benefits
CarGuru’s Vice President, Product, Ben Kasdon, stated in the release that this feature enables consumers to “shop in ways that weren’t possible before by having an open dialogue right on our site.”
One example prompt from the press release reads: “I have three kids under 3.
Helpme find a car with high safety and reliability ratings.” Other examples included prompts seeking cars with room for tall drivers; SUVs with a specific combination of reliability, technology, and price; and all-wheel drive vehicles for any terrain.
Kasdon noted that shoppers using the AI search feature spent more time on the site than those using traditional search methods during an early pilot program.
AI-Driven Approach
In 2024, CarGurus introduced over 30,000 personalized car comparison pages, providing recommendations based on user search history, and discovered that this AI-driven approach boosted conversion by 10% during its testing phase.
CarGurus CEO Jason Trevisan said during a February earnings call, “With a 14% increase in direct traffic year over year and 30% of our leads coming from our app, it’s essential that we continuously improve the experience across our owned channels.” He added that cross-platform syncing was introduced, allowing consumer activity to transition between desktop, mobile web, and the app.
Across the retail sector, generative AI tools are assisting consumers in more efficiently locating products and deals. Retailers have reported increased traffic from AI-powered searches.