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IRVINE and CHATSWORTH, Calif. — Autobytel on Tuesday rolled out a new initiative it's calling AutoPilot. The program is meant to deliver pre-qualified buyers to dealers through a vehicle-buying service for consumers who receive financing from their local credit union or bank. 

Executives also shared the credit union that will be AutoPilot's premier partner. They indicated that partner will be one of the nation's largest credit unions, Autoland, who will also aid the program with its call center technology.

The companies shared how AutoPilot is intended to operate. The program can provide consumers, credit union members and customers of other automotive lending sources with a media-rich, information-empowered online shopping experience and the ability to connect with an Autobytel-certified AutoPilot dealer in their area.

They went on to emphasize AutoPilot dealers have received special training in delivering a VIP experience, which includes supporting pre-approved credit union or other lender source's financing, pre-set appointments and no-haggle pricing.

Officials asserted the program is designed to ensure a smooth, efficient and positive experience for customers and dealers.

For example, as the premier partner for AutoPilot, Autoland indicated it will assist pre-qualified customers in shopping and locating the right vehicles at a participating local AutoPilot dealership.  Additionally, Autoland said it will set dealership VIP appointments for pre-approved vehicle-buyers through its appointment center services.

Autobytel president and chief executive officer Jeff Coats has high hopes for the program and how it could boost sales traffic for dealers.

"Autobytel launched the industry's first Internet car buying program based on the premise that if you provide a positive experience for both consumers and dealers, everyone wins," Coats recounted.

"With the launch of Autobytel's AutoPilot buying service, we are taking that concept to the next level, providing a hassle-free concierge program for consumers and pre-financed car-buyers for dealers," he continued.

"We are also very pleased that our premier partner in AutoPilot is Autoland, whose strong credit union relationships will create a uniquely positive car buying experience for credit union members while they directly support and help increase auto loans to their credit union partners and dealers alike," Coats went on to say.

Autoland president Jeff Martin echoed a similar sentiment as his management counterpart from Autobytel.

"Not only did Autobytel pioneer a consumer-friendly car-buying model that continues today, it has also developed one of the most Internet-savvy and consumer-focused networks of car dealers in the industry," Martin pointed out.

"We are pleased to be a premier partner in AutoPilot, where credit union members can count on an excellent selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, receive great financing from their credit unions and ultimately receive a great experience," he concluded.