Automotive Internet Media

auto marketing

CarClicks Marketing Delivers a Strong Start to 2026 with Q1 Results

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CarClicks Marketing continues to drive measurable success in today’s competitive automotive marketing landscape, kicking off 2026 with impressive first-quarter performance. In Q1 2026, CarClicks generated 10,390,477 Vehicle Detail Page (VDP) views, connecting dealerships with high-intent shoppers actively searching for their next vehicle.

The platform also delivered massive visibility, producing 837,779,404 impressions and 6,422,900 shopper sessions across its network. These results highlight the strength of CarClicks as a leader in automotive digital marketing, helping dealers reach shoppers at scale while maintaining a focus on quality engagement.

Even more impactful, this performance was achieved at an average cost of just $0.74 per VDP view, reinforcing CarClicks as one of the most efficient automotive digital marketing services available for dealerships today.

Published: April 27, 2026

Automotive Internet Media | Digital Marketing Agency

Q1 2026 CarClicks Results

A Powerful Start to the Year

The first quarter of 2026 set the tone for continued success. As more consumers rely on online research during the vehicle buying process, digital marketing for car dealerships has never been more important.

CarClicks meets this demand by placing dealership inventory directly in front of shoppers across trusted automotive websites and high-traffic marketplaces. This approach ensures consistent visibility where buyers are already browsing, helping dealers attract more qualified traffic and stay competitive in an evolving market.

Why CarClicks Continues to Deliver

CarClicks stands out by focusing on real shopper intent and measurable results. With an average cost per VDP under one dollar, dealers benefit from a solution that prioritizes efficiency and performance over inflated metrics.

As part of a comprehensive automotive digital marketing strategy, CarClicks helps dealerships remain visible throughout every stage of the buying journey. From initial discovery to final comparison, the platform keeps your inventory in front of shoppers who are ready to take action.

For dealers looking to strengthen their automotive marketing strategy, CarClicks remains a proven and scalable solution backed by data.

Build on the Momentum in Q2

With a strong Q1 complete, now is the time to build on that momentum. As competition increases and shopper behavior continues to shift online, having a reliable source of high-intent traffic is essential.

If you are ready to improve your results with smarter digital marketing services, Contact AIMedia today to learn more about CarClicks Marketing or schedule a demo.

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Your Market Is Larger Than You Realize: Why Auto Marketplaces Are Driving Today’s Buyers

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The way people shop for vehicles has changed, and many dealerships are still relying on outdated assumptions about where the journey begins.

For years, search engines were seen as the primary starting point. Today, that is no longer the case.

More shoppers are going directly to auto marketplaces to begin their search, compare vehicles, and make decisions faster than ever.

In fact, recent industry data shows that “93% of engaged car buyers use auto marketplaces during their path to purchase, more than any other channel, including search.” (Source: https://www.cbtnews.com/your-market-is-bigger-than-you-think)

This shift is reshaping automotive marketing and creating new opportunities for dealerships that are ready to adapt.

Missing Auto Shoppers

The Shift in Automotive Digital Marketing

Modern shoppers want efficiency, transparency, and control. Auto marketplaces deliver all three in one place.

Buyers can:

  • Compare vehicles side by side
  • Evaluate pricing and features
  • View real inventory availability

Instead of browsing broadly, they are narrowing their options quickly and moving closer to a decision before ever visiting a dealership website.

This change is redefining automotive digital marketing. High-intent shoppers are no longer just searching. They are actively engaging with specific vehicles.

The Gap in Digital Marketing for Car Dealerships

Many dealerships still invest heavily in search, social media, and traditional digital marketing services.

While those channels still have value, they often miss shoppers at the most important stage of the journey.

Marketplace users represent:

  • High-intent buyers
  • Vehicle-specific interest
  • Strong purchase signals

If your digital marketing for car dealerships strategy is not reaching these shoppers, you are missing a critical opportunity to connect with ready-to-buy customers.

How CarClicks Turns Shopper Behavior Into Results

CarClicks Marketing is built to align with how people actually shop today.

Instead of waiting for traffic, CarClicks identifies in-market shoppers who are already browsing vehicles on auto marketplaces and connects them directly to your dealership.

With CarClicks, dealerships can:

  • Target shoppers based on real vehicle interest
  • Engage users already viewing their inventory
  • Drive qualified traffic straight to their website

This approach goes beyond traditional digital marketing services by focusing on real purchase intent.

Why VIN-Level Targeting Matters

Not all traffic is equal.

Many website visitors are still in the early research phase. Marketplace shoppers are further along and closer to making a decision.

They are:

  • Comparing specific vehicles
  • Reviewing pricing and availability
  • Taking the next steps toward purchase

CarClicks uses VIN-level targeting to reach these high-value users. This allows dealerships to connect with shoppers who already know what they want.

A More Effective Approach to Automotive Marketing

The modern buying journey is driven by behavior, data, and timing.

Successful automotive marketing strategies are built on reaching the right audience at the right moment.

CarClicks brings together:

  • Dealership inventory
  • Shopper behavior
  • Real-time data

This creates a more efficient and effective approach to automotive digital marketing that delivers measurable results.

The Bottom Line

If 93% of engaged buyers are using auto marketplaces, dealerships cannot afford to ignore where real shopping activity is happening.

A strong digital marketing for car dealerships strategy should focus on more than generating traffic. It should connect you with in-market shoppers who are ready to act.

CarClicks Marketing helps make that connection.

To learn more about how CarClicks can support your dealership’s growth, Contact AIMedia today and discover a smarter approach to digital marketing for car dealerships.

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Inside Earnhardt’s “No Bull” Event: Celebrating 75 Years of Community & Growth

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Attending the Earnhardt Marketing: No Bull Upfront event was a refreshing reminder of what strong community, legacy, and forward-thinking business truly look like.

More Than an Event—A True Industry Experience

Earnhardt No Bull Event

From the moment I arrived at The Duce in downtown Phoenix, there was an unmistakable energy in the air. The western cocktail theme gave the evening a fun, relaxed vibe, while still keeping things polished and professional. It struck a perfect balance—something Earnhardt has clearly mastered over the past 75 years.

The event wasn’t just about celebrating history (though that alone is impressive); it was about honoring the relationships, partnerships, and people who have made that legacy possible. Hearing stories, reflecting on milestones, and connecting with others in the industry made it clear that this isn’t just a company—it’s a community.

What stood out most was the authenticity. The “No Bull” message wasn’t just branding—it came through in the conversations, the transparency, and the genuine appreciation for everyone involved in the journey.

Overall, it was an inspiring evening filled with great people, meaningful insights, and a shared excitement for what’s ahead. If this event is any indication, the next chapter for Earnhardt is going to be just as strong as the last 75 years—maybe even better.

Earnhardt No Bull Event Photos

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  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event
  • Earnhardt No Bull Event

Proud to Represent CarClicks Marketing

We were proud to represent CarClicks Marketing at this incredible event, connecting with industry leaders and showcasing how our AI-powered approach is reshaping automotive marketing. From smarter inventory targeting to more efficient ad spend, our solutions are built to help dealerships win in today’s competitive landscape.

If you’re looking to elevate your strategy with results-driven digital marketing services, we’re here to help. Contact AIMedia to learn how CarClicks Marketing can drive stronger performance for your dealership.

AIMedia Attends the 2026 Cleveland Auto Show and Showcases DriveNEO.com

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The team at AIMedia is proud to attend this year’s Cleveland Auto Show, happening February 20th through March 1st at the International Exposition Center. The Cleveland Auto Show is always one of the most anticipated automotive events of the year, bringing together the newest vehicles, emerging technology, and forward-thinking innovation shaping the future of the industry.

From cutting-edge EV advancements to redesigned SUVs and performance models, the show floor offers a firsthand look at where the market is headed. For those of us working in automotive marketing, it’s an exciting opportunity to see how digital strategy and in-store experiences continue to evolve together.

Published: February 24, 2026

AIMedia | Digital Marketing Agency

AI Media Attends the Cleveland Auto Show

Proud to Power DriveNEO.com

We’re especially excited to showcase DriveNEO.com throughout the event. As the largest local listing of new and used vehicles in Northeast Ohio, DriveNEO.com connects consumers with dealerships and available inventory across the region in one seamless platform.

Built and powered by AIMedia, DriveNEO.com reflects the strength of strategic automotive digital marketing. The platform is designed to:

  • Connect shoppers with trusted local dealerships

  • Deliver real-time inventory visibility

  • Provide an intuitive and streamlined search experience

  • Support dealerships with high-performance digital marketing services

In today’s landscape, the vehicle buying journey begins online. Strong automotive marketing strategies ensure dealerships are visible where shoppers are searching. DriveNEO.com brings that strategy to life by combining advanced technology with a localized marketplace that keeps shoppers engaged and dealers competitive.

  • AI Media Attends the Cleveland Auto Show
  • AI Media Attends the Cleveland Auto Show
  • AI Media Attends the Cleveland Auto Show
  • AI Media Attends the Cleveland Auto Show

Driving the Future of Automotive Digital Marketing

Attending the Cleveland Auto Show allows us to connect with dealers, partners, and industry professionals while demonstrating how powerful digital infrastructure supports showroom traffic and long-term growth.

At AIMedia, we specialize in automotive digital marketing solutions that help dealerships increase visibility, generate leads, and convert shoppers into buyers. From search and display to OTT, paid social, and marketplace development, our digital marketing services are built specifically for the automotive industry.

We’re proud to power DriveNEO.com and to continue delivering innovative solutions that move dealerships forward.

Interested in learning how AIMedia can support your dealership’s growth? Contact AIMedia to explore how our automotive marketing expertise can help you drive measurable results.

Automotive Internet Media Proudly Attends the University of Michigan Winter Job & Internship Fair

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Automotive Internet Media was proud to attend the University of Michigan Winter Job and Internship Fair, held February 3rd and 4th from 12:00 to 4:00 PM at the Michigan Union in Ann Arbor. The in-person event brought together ambitious students seeking career and internship opportunities across a wide range of industries.

As a growing leader in digital marketing solutions for automotive dealerships, Automotive Internet Media was excited to connect with students interested in the evolving intersection of technology, artificial intelligence, and marketing strategy. The event provided an excellent platform to introduce students to the innovative work we are doing and the expanding digital marketing careers available within our organization.

Published: February 12, 2026

AIMedia | Digital Marketing Agency

Michigan Career Fair

Showcasing DeepSignal™ to Future Innovators

During the fair, our team highlighted DeepSignal™, our new predictive AI-powered marketing product designed specifically for automotive dealers.

DeepSignal™ uses advanced predictive AI to analyze consumer behaviors and buying journeys, identifying new shoppers whose actions closely align with those of past buyers. By focusing on signals near the point of purchase, the platform enables dealers to prioritize high-intent consumers earlier, resulting in stronger engagement, higher closing rates, and incremental sales opportunities.

Students were especially engaged by how predictive AI is reshaping digital marketing solutions within the automotive industry. Many were eager to learn how data science, machine learning, and performance marketing strategies combine to produce measurable results for dealerships nationwide.

Exploring Digital Marketing Careers at AIMedia

Throughout both days of the event, our team spoke with dozens of prospective candidates interested in digital marketing careers, software development, data analytics, and AI innovation. We were particularly excited to meet students who bring a unique blend of technical expertise and marketing insight, the kind of hybrid talent that drives innovation at Automotive Internet Media.

We discussed our continued growth as a company, our investment in advanced technology, and the opportunities available for students looking to begin or advance their careers in a fast-paced, forward-thinking environment. As we continue expanding our suite of digital marketing solutions, we are focused on building a team that is passionate about innovation and measurable performance.

Looking Toward the Future

The energy and talent we encountered at the University of Michigan reinforced why we are so optimistic about the future of our company and the industry. Connecting with the next generation of professionals is an important part of our long-term growth strategy.

Automotive Internet Media is excited to see which candidates may become part of the next chapter of our expansion. If you are interested in learning more about our company, our technology, or digital marketing careers, contact Automotive Internet Media today or visit www.aimyes.com to explore current opportunities.

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AIMedia Proudly Partners with the CATA Again and Attended the 2026 Chicago Auto Show

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AIMedia Proudly Partners with the CATA Again and Attended the 2026 Chicago Auto Show

AIMedia is proud to continue our valued partnership with the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) and attend the 2026 Chicago Auto Show, held February 7–16, 2026, at McCormick Place.

As the largest and longest-running auto show in North America, the Chicago Auto Show remains one of the most influential automotive events in the country. Each year, it brings together manufacturers, dealers, media, and automotive enthusiasts to experience the latest vehicle debuts, cutting-edge technology, and emerging industry trends. AIMedia is honored to support the digital initiatives behind this iconic event and help power its trusted vehicle shopping destination, DriveChicago.com.

Published: February 11, 2026

AIMedia | Digital Marketing Agency

AIMedia Team at Chicago Auto Show

Driving Results with Strategic Digital Marketing

AIMedia plays an integral role in expanding the Chicago Auto Show’s digital footprint, ensuring the excitement extends far beyond the show floor. Through advanced digital marketing strategies, targeted media placements, and data-driven audience engagement, our team helps amplify the show’s messaging to in-market auto shoppers across Chicagoland and beyond.

By leveraging innovative advertising solutions and industry expertise, AIMedia helps drive awareness, engagement, and measurable results for one of the automotive industry’s most anticipated annual events.

Supporting DriveChicago.com with CarClicks

In addition to supporting the Chicago Auto Show, AIMedia is proud to continue its partnership with the CATA in powering DriveChicago.com. Operated by the CATA, DriveChicago.com serves as a premier local vehicle shopping platform that connects consumers with dealerships and available inventory throughout the Chicagoland area.

  • AIMedia Team at Chicago Auto Show
  • AIMedia Team at Chicago Auto Show
  • AIMedia Team at Chicago Auto Show
  • AIMedia Team at Chicago Auto Show

Strengthening the Chicagoland Automotive Community

AIMedia is honored to work alongside the Chicago Automobile Trade Association and support initiatives that benefit local dealers and the broader community. Our continued involvement with the Chicago Auto Show and DriveChicago.com reflects our commitment to advancing automotive marketing innovation while supporting the dealers and organizations that drive our industry forward.

We are grateful for the opportunity to attend the 2026 Chicago Auto Show and look forward to another year of collaboration, innovation, and continued growth within the Chicagoland automotive community. Contact AIMedia today for digital marketing solutions for your business. 

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Why Dealership Traffic Is Declining in 2025 and What Dealers Can Do About It

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Why Dealership Traffic Is Declining in 2025 and What Dealers Can Do About It

Dealerships across the country are seeing a noticeable shift in foot traffic as we move into 2025. While vehicle demand is still strong, the way shoppers research, compare, and choose a dealership has changed dramatically. If your showroom feels quieter than it did a year ago, the trend is real and there are clear reasons behind it.

The good news is that dealers who understand these changes and adjust their automotive digital marketing strategies accordingly are seeing more qualified traffic than ever before.

Published: November 21, 2025

Automotive Internet Media | Digital Marketing Agency

dealership declining website traffic

Here is what is driving the decline and what you can do to reverse it.

  1. Shopper Behavior Has Shifted

Shoppers are not visiting five or six dealerships anymore. Most narrow their choices online and visit only one or two stores before making a decision. This means:

  • Fewer casual walk-ins
  • More high-intent appointments
  • A longer online research journey before stepping onto the lot

Dealers no longer compete for foot traffic but compete for digital attention long before the shopper arrives. Smart car dealership advertising online can make all the difference.

  1. More Research Happens Online Before a Visit

The average buyer now spends weeks researching inventory, pricing, incentives, reviews, and trade-in values. By the time someone visits your dealership, they have likely:

  • Viewed dozens of Vehicle Detail Pages (VDPs)
  • Compared your pricing against local competitors
  • Watched videos or read third-party reviews
  • Checked your service reputation
  • Received financing pre-approvals

This means your dealership website traffic and online presence must do the heavy lifting early in the process. If shoppers do not like what they see online, they never show up in person.

  1. AI Is Influencing How Shoppers Choose Dealerships

AI is reshaping car shopping. With AI-driven recommendations appearing across search engines, social platforms, and shopping tools, consumers are being guided toward specific vehicles, brands, and dealers automatically.

Examples include:

  • AI Overviews in Google Search
  • AI-driven comparison tools
  • Personalized vehicle recommendations
  • Smart assistants that suggest nearby dealers

If your dealership’s online presence is thin, inconsistent, or poorly optimized, AI will simply recommend your competitors.

  1. Inventory Normalization Means More Competition

After several years of inventory shortages, 2024 and 2025 brought stability. That stability comes with a downside. More inventory means more dealers are competing for the same shoppers.

With similar models widely available again, consumer behavior changes:

  • Shoppers compare dealerships more aggressively
  • Incentives influence decisions again
  • Pricing transparency matters
  • Dealers must differentiate beyond inventory alone

This environment rewards the dealers who invest in inventory marketing and digital marketing for dealerships and penalizes those who rely solely on location or brand loyalty.

  1. What Dealers Can Do to Boost Traffic in 2025

The solution is not waiting for traffic to return. It is building a strategy that drives digital visibility, qualified website traffic, and high-intent showroom visits. Here are the most effective approaches:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Strong SEO ensures that your dealership appears in local searches for:

  • New and used vehicles
  • Service and maintenance
  • Model comparisons
  • Pricing and incentives

A well-optimized website generates recurring, high-quality online vehicle leads every month.

Paid Search (Google Ads)

Paid search remains one of the most effective ways to capture ready-to-buy shoppers. With dealership competition rising, targeted ads for models, incentives, and local inventory can drive immediate traffic to VDPs.

CTV/OTT Advertising

Streaming now surpasses linear TV, making CTV the new frontier for dealership branding. CTV campaigns:

  • Reach in-market shoppers
  • Build local awareness
  • Drive branded search and website traffic
  • Offer measurable attribution

This approach works well for dealers looking to expand their presence beyond search alone.

Enhanced Inventory Distribution with CarClicks

With more shoppers researching online, your inventory needs to be visible everywhere they are. CarClicks Marketing helps dealerships:

  • Increase VDP views
  • Drive more qualified traffic to their website
  • Reach shoppers across high-traffic automotive marketplaces
  • Improve conversion rates with consistent exposure

When inventory is visible across multiple platforms, showroom visits increase.

Short-Form Video

Video is now a key part of the dealership research experience. Short walkaround clips, feature highlights, and “what’s in stock” videos:

  • Increase time on site
  • Build trust
  • Humanize the dealership
  • Improve engagement on social and search

Video helps turn passive researchers into active shoppers.

Final Thoughts

Dealership traffic is not disappearing; it is shifting. Buyers are still there, but they are making decisions earlier, online, and with AI-driven tools influencing the process. Dealers who adapt and invest in digital marketing for dealerships, inventory marketing, and high-quality traffic strategies are the ones seeing strong, consistent showroom traffic.

To learn more about how your dealership can drive more qualified website traffic, increase online vehicle leads, and boost showroom visits, contact Automotive Internet Media today. Our team specializes in digital marketing solutions that help dealerships reach shoppers at every stage of their journey.

Automotive National TV Ad Spend Drops, Opportunity for Smarter Digital Marketing Grows

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Automotive National TV Ad Spend Drops, Opportunity for Smarter Digital Marketing Grows

Automotive national TV ad spend is trending downward, signaling a shift in how consumers are reached. With impressions and budgets declining, dealerships have an opportunity to embrace smarter, more measurable digital marketing strategies like Connected TV (CTV) and Online Video (OLV) to engage in-market buyers more effectively.

Published: September 17, 2025

Automotive Internet Media | Digital Marketing Agency

Automotive national TV advertising

Automotive National TV Ad Spend Declines
Automotive national TV advertising saw a significant decline in July, with spending down 24.7% year-over-year to $69.9 million and impressions dropping 21.5%, according to iSpot.tv. Year-to-date figures show a smaller but notable decline, with spending down 1.8% and impressions falling 15.8%.

Top Advertisers and Programming Trends
Top advertisers in July included Kia, Subaru, Lexus, Volkswagen, and Genesis. Sports programming accounted for a third of ad spend, led by MLB broadcasts and ESPN’s “SportsCenter,” while lifestyle and news programming also attracted significant investment.

Most-Viewed and Most-Liked Campaigns
Hyundai, Kia, Jeep, and Genesis ran the most-viewed spots, while Subaru and Lexus led in ad likeability with dog-themed campaigns. Lexus and GMC ranked highest for ads driving purchase intent, proving that creative storytelling still matters even as traditional TV viewership changes.

Opportunities in Smarter Digital Marketing
For dealerships looking to adapt, smarter TV marketing strategies, like Connected TV (CTV) and Online Video (OLV) advertising, offer measurable results and the ability to reach in-market car buyers more efficiently than traditional broadcast alone.

Partner with Automotive Internet Media
Contact Automotive Internet Media to learn how your dealership can maximize ad spend, increase visibility, and connect directly with active buyers through modern digital TV campaigns.

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