LOS ANGELES -

Subprime automotive financing technology firm Auto Credit Express has been acquired by Internet Brands — a company that includes vehicle listing provider CarsDirect — according to an announcement posted on Wednesday morning.

Executives said the deal immediately bolsters Internet Brands’ presence in the subprime automotive category and creates one of North America’s largest full-service subprime automotive solution providers, serving both consumers and dealerships. Internet Brands is a fully integrated online media and software services organization focused on four high-value vertical categories: automotive, health, legal and home/travel.

Auto Credit Express has connected credit-challenged consumers with automotive financing from dealerships and other lending partners since its founding in 1999. Beyond loan matching, the company offers dealerships advanced subprime training, propriety online tracking software, and an expert lead system.

“We’ve always admired Auto Credit Express’ commitment to unwavering business ethics and a top-notch customer experience — values that are shared by Internet Brands,” said Todd Dearborn, vice president of sales at Internet Brands’ automotive division. “We look forward to developing innovative new ways to serve the large and growing subprime automotive market as we join forces."

Auto Credit Express joins Internet Brands' rapidly growing automotive division, which currently serves the subprime automotive market through its flagship CarsDirect business. In recent years, subprime loan matching has become a fast-growing business line for CarsDirect, complementing its new- and used-vehicle lead products.

“Internet Brands’ unparalleled automotive expertise and proven track record of growing the businesses they acquire makes us confident that they’re the ideal partner for us,” said Rich LaLonde, founder of Auto Credit Express.

Added Jack Lintol, general manager at Auto Credit Express: “The future is bright for Auto Credit Express as we work closely with the Internet Brands team to take our business to the next level and serve our valued customers even better than ever before.”

The Auto Credit Express brand and existing product offerings will be retained post-acquisition, and the company will continue to operate from its headquarters in Auburn Hills, Mich.

Auto Credit Express was represented by Quarton International in the transaction.