CU Direct Offers Online Auto Resource for Members
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. –- CU Direct Corp. has launched an upgrade to its automotive research site for credit union members. Known as AutoSMART (Select Member Automotive Research Tools), the educational site includes features and resources to help members make informed auto-buying decisions.
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. –- CU Direct Corp. has launched an upgrade to its automotive research site for credit union members. Known as AutoSMART (Select Member Automotive Research Tools), the educational site includes features and resources to help members make informed auto-buying decisions.
Currently, there are 217 credit unions connected to the site. Each can choose what features to include on its Website from the following features: rates, online loan applications, dealer vehicle inventories, repossessed vehicle inventories, online auctions and “concierge” broker service.
Dealers are able to work more closely with Credit Union Direct Lending (CUDL) credit unions and gain access to its 10.5 million members. According to the company, dealers will receive more qualified leads, increasing the chances of a sale.
AutoSMART provides comparisons of price and features for up to three vehicles to help customers make a final decision. Information about credit reports, low-interest-rate financing and loan calculators is also available on the site.
CU Direct is currently testing an upgrade that would allow dealers and credit unions to list vehicle inventories for sale or for online auction.
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