IRVINE, Calif. -

Dealers that work with credit unions now each have the potential for more success as two well-known companies in the respective spaces are collaborating.

On Thursday, CUDL, one of the nation’s largest credit union financing networks, announced an alliance with J.D. Power and CUDL’s AutoSMART online shopping program to expand inventory visibility for its dealer partners.

The companies highlighted the alliance between CUDL and J.D. Power allows dealerships participating in the CUDL AutoSMART program to have their inventory displayed on JDPower.com, providing greater digital exposure and the opportunity to drive more online customer requests for dealers.

According to a news release, JDPower.com averages 1.5 million monthly visits by consumers looking for their next vehicle. 

Both J.D. Power and CUDL pointed out that leveraging digital retail technologies to engage potential buyers online — as well as improve sales efficiency — has become a key strategy for dealerships, particularly in the wake of COVID-19.

“By integrating AutoSmart dealer inventory into the JDPower.com experience, we will be providing shoppers with a comprehensive view of available vehicles in their backyard,” said Craig Jennings, president of the Autodata Solutions Division at J.D. Power.  “CUDL AutoSmart dealers equally benefit by having access to a new and expanding audience of shoppers.”

CUDL’s AutoSMART program features more than 900 credit union branded digital storefronts, connecting 14,000 dealers and 1.5 million vehicles to millions of credit union members.

Officials added the program had a 40% increase in lead generation activity for dealers between year-end 2019 and year-end 2020.

“Our mission is to deliver an exceptional experience to our dealers through innovative solutions that drive more sales,” CU Direct chief revenue officer Phil DuPree said. “As part of this commitment, we are excited to be working with J.D. Power to provide our dealers with greater digital and marketplace exposure of their shops and inventory.”