CARMEL, Ind. -

New vehicle geo-locating devices from ADESA at select U.S. and Canadian locations combine mobile app technology and GPS-enabled technology to help improve efficiency, security and the customer experience at ADESA locations.

The GPS devices are placed securely on each vehicle upon arrival at ADESA and can be accessed through the Vehicle Locator functionality of the ADESA marketplace app.

For sellers, according to the company, that provides accurate, real-time visibility into vehicle location and security. For buyers, they can quickly preview, check out and transport purchased vehicles.

ADESA said the technology release is part of its multi-year strategy to rethink traditional auction processes. The company also seeks to inject the latest digital technology across its 74 North American facilities.

“The launch of ADESA’s new geo-locating devices is the perfect combination of digital transformation meets physical innovation,” John Hammer, chief commercial officer of KAR Global and president of ADESA, said in a news release.

Hammer also said, “On-site customers can download the ADESA Marketplace app and easily locate sale-ready or purchased inventory in a matter of seconds — saving them a lot of time and frustration. And because our employees are also using this technology, we’re able to accelerate cycle time for vehicle check-in, inspection and reconditioning, reducing valuable days-to-sale for our consignors. It’s a true win-win for everyone.”

Thousands of dealers nationwide use the ADESA Marketplace app, which features vehicle information and now provides pinpointed locations accurate to a single parking spot.

The enhanced Vehicle Locator feature is currently available to users at 38 ADESA sites. It will be fully offered across the U.S. and Canada by the end of May.

ADESA Marketplace app users starting in April will also be able to share vehicle location information with non-app users, such as transporters, including for purchased vehicles.

ADESA chief operating officer Srisu Subrahmanyam said that with all U.S. and most Canadian ADESA locations open for vehicle previews, and with most offering in-lane bidding, the new Vehicle Locator feature brings dealers a more efficient and technology-enabled experience while on-site.

“In addition to streamlining auctions for dealers and consignors, the devices also add an additional layer of security to ADESA’s robust asset protection and safety measures,” Subrahmanyam said.

Subrahmanyam also said, “We’re able to see exactly where the vehicle is on our lots and throughout the remarketing process—and are alerted if a vehicle leaves our lot unexpectedly.”

The investments and improvements as part of ADESA’s multi-year strategy are aimed at bringing more consistency and efficiency to auction operations and providing a good experience for on-site customers, the fastest cycle times for consignors and good outcomes for all customers.