ATLANTA and SAN FRANCISCO -

Cox Automotive said Tuesday it is integrating Lyft’s ride-sharing service into its Xtime fixed ops software platform, giving dealers a way to provide consumers a transportation option during service appointments.

With the integration of Lyft into the Xtime platform, dealer customers can offer Lyft as a transportation option for service customers during appointment. Service advisers will be able to set up Lyft pickups and drop-offs through the check-in tablet application upon customer arrival.

Cox Automotive expects Lyft to be an option for Xtime customers in the second half of the year. It will be available through Xtime’s consumer Schedule product and provided in the Engage service adviser check-in tablet product.

“The Xtime and Lyft integration is another step towards helping transform automotive dealerships from sales centers into full-fledged transportation hubs,” said Tracy Fred, vice president and general manager for Xtime at Cox Automotive, in a news release.

“The new solution will help dealers give service customers an excellent experience that will keep them coming back to the dealership.”

Cox Automotive said that with the integration of Lyft into the Xtime platform, dealerships can trim costs of things like shuttle services and related driving and insurance costs. By utilizing Lyft, they will be tapping into an on-demand ride-sharing service that utilizes a pay-per-use cost model. 

Tully Wiliams is parts and service director for The Niello Company, an Xtime customer. In the news release, Williams said: “Our success as a dealership is built on ensuring a positive service experience after a customer purchases a vehicle from us. The Lyft integration with Xtime will provide another way for us to elevate the total ownership experience for our customers and ensure their transportation needs are met while their vehicle is being serviced. As a business, this also helps simplify the management of alternative transportation options, which can reduce our operating expenses.”