As AI evolves, the question isn’t whether dealers should use it, but how to use it in a way that actually drives ROI, especially in fixed ops. Joining us on this special pre-NADA edition of Driving Solutions is Dave Perry, CEO of Blink AI Automotive, to highlight how dealers can leverage AI to improve fixed ops, retention, and revenue.
Perry emphasized that AI is moving beyond assistive functions like prompts and nudges, migrating toward “systems of action” capable of interpreting customer intent in real time and taking autonomous steps to complete service interactions. By integrating with dealership management systems (DMS), customer relationship management tools, telematics alerts, and web scheduling, Blink AI’s platform automates routine tasks while involving human staff only when necessary, and reduces delays and missed opportunities.
“AI is moving from just being an assistive device… and really moving into what I would call a system of action.”
Additionally, Perry notes that fixed operations are becoming the primary focus for AI-driven ROI. Unlike vehicle sales, which can vary due to interest rates, tariffs, and economic factors, service visits provide consistent engagement that builds customer trust, boosts retention, and generates steady revenue. Dealers can also use the service lane to encourage the purchase of both new and used vehicles, opening up further growth prospects.
Moreover, he warns against relying on siloed point solutions, which can create inconsistent customer experiences across multiple rooftops. His best advice is that dealer groups need to focus on integrated platforms that unify workflows and standardize service interactions to ensure every customer receives consistent engagement regardless of location or brand.
The CEO highlighted that today’s consumers expect timely, 24/7 interactions. Calls, texts, website inquiries, and telematics alerts all contribute to a complex web of customer inputs. AI platforms capable of consolidating and acting on these inputs allow dealerships to improve customer satisfaction, shorten response times, and convert engagement into booked appointments and revenue more efficiently.
Blink AI Automotive will be in attendance at this year’s NADA to display its platform and announce new partnerships, located in North Hall, Booth 6453N.
