IRVINE, Calif. -

This past week, CU Direct announced a new integration with VinSolutions automotive CRM, creating what the tech firms believe are six benefits for dealership F&I offices.

As a result of the collaboration, CU Direct has expanded its CUDL auto financing platform’s DMS/CRM integration solution to include VinSolutions. The developer of lending software technology for the credit union industry explained the system integration with the CUDL platform can minimize the need for dealers to double enter data, better simplifying and streamlining the entire application process, allowing more opportunities for quicker financing solutions.

“Credit unions are an important conduit to financing options for many car buyers,” said Tracy Fred, vice president of operations, CRM sales and service, for Cox Automotive’s Dealer Software Solutions. “We stand with CU Direct in their commitment to giving credit union members all the benefits of a smoother, more efficient and enjoyable car buying experience.”

The companies went on to mention in a news release that the new system integration with VinSolutions can provide a number of key advantages for dealerships including:

• Pushing complete deals from VinSolutions directly into CUDL system

• No double entry of application data

• Streamlined workflows

• Faster processing times allowing for quicker decisions

• More time to sell products

• Improved CSI with less customer time in the F&I office

“Our stores got an early trial of this integrated offering and it’s been very effective at streamlining indirect auto lending deals,” said Shane Robidoux, general manager of Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Portland.

“Our finance team can push consistent and complete customer and vehicle data from the VinSolutions Connect CRM desking tool straight to CUDL. Saving steps means saving time- that makes everyone’s job easier and keeps customers happier,” Robidoux added in the news release.

The nation’s largest credit union auto lending network, CUDL connects credit unions to 15,000 auto dealers nationwide. Collectively, the 1,100 credit union partners on the CUDL platform have been the nation’s No. 1 auto-financing source since 2017, according to CU Direct.

“The landscape of lending is changing, and we recognize the value and need for delivering a simplified, streamlined application process for dealers and their customers,” CUDL product director Marty Simons said.  “As a result, we’ve joined forces with VinSolutions to provide dealers with the ability to easily send deals to credit unions, paving the way for an improved customer experience.”

For more information, visit cudirect.com or www.vinsolutions.com.