On the Dash:
- Tobias Hartmann will become CEO of Cars Commerce on Jan. 15, 2026, succeeding longtime leader Alex Vetter.
- Hartmann brings more than 25 years of global marketplace and eCommerce leadership experience, most recently as CEO of Scout24 SE.
- Vetter will serve as an advisor through March 31, 2026, after leading Cars.com’s transformation into a SaaS-driven automotive platform.
Cars Commerce announced that Tobias Hartsmann will become CEO and join the Board of Directors effective January 15, 2026, succeeding Alex Vetter, who will step down and serve as an advisor through March 31, 2026, to facilitate a smooth transition.
Hartmann brings more than 25 years of experience in B2C and B2B technology, eCommerce, and marketplace companies. Most recently, he served as CEO and Chairman of Scout24 Group, the parent company of ImmoScout24, where he accelerated revenue and margin growth. Previously served as President of HelloFresh, helping it become the U.S. market leader, and led the eBay Enterprise carve-out from eBay Inc.
Board Chairman Scott Forbes praised Hartmann’s sector experience and said the appointment follows a comprehensive CEO succession process and positions the company to accelerate growth.
Hartmann said he plans to build on the company’s existing foundation while leveraging digital tools, data, and artificial intelligence to help automotive retailers and wholesalers compete more effectively.
Alex Vetter joined Cars.com at launch in 1998 and became CEO in 2014. He transformed the company from an affiliate classifieds model to a vertical SaaS platform. Oversaw strategic acquisitions, including Dealer Inspire, AccuTrade, and DealerClub. Advocated for local dealer retail systems and franchise models, both in industry coalitions and lobbying.
During Vetter’s tenure, Cars Commerce expanded its capabilities through strategic acquisitions, including Dealer Inspire websites, AccuTrade appraisal technology, and DealerClub’s wholesale dealer marketplace. He also became a prominent advocate for the franchised-dealer model, representing the industry in policy discussions and coalitions.
Vetter said he is confident in Hartmann’s ability to lead the company forward and continue its legacy of innovation in automotive retail technology.
Cars Commerce operates one of the most recognized automotive marketplace brands in the United States and provides digital solutions that support dealers across marketing, merchandising, appraisal, and wholesale transactions.
