CU Direct plans to redesign its CUDL and AutoSMART products this year, following the recent appointment of Ron Frey as the company’s chief strategy officer of automotive solutions.
“CU Direct’s first priority in 2017 is developing our new CUDL platform,” Frey told Auto Finance News. It will include a “more intuitive user interface” and added mobile notification functionality, he added.
The redesigned platform — which is currently in beta testing — will debut at the National Automobile Dealers Association event later this month, Frey said. It will be rolled out throughout the year to CU Direct’s 13,000 dealer partners nationwide.
The company’s second priority is re-platforming its AutoSMART product, also scheduled to launch later this month, Frey said. “We are refreshing this platform, and thinking about how we can help credit unions differentiate themselves to add value to their members, as they begin to shop and approach the car-buying process, as well as support their strong relationship with dealer partners,” he added.
Frey began his new role on Oct. 4. He brings 30 years’ experience serving the auto and credit union industry to his new role, including his most recent position serving as chief strategy officer of AutoNation Inc. and president of AutoNation Direct. He also previously served as chief executive of Autoland, playing an integral role in the launch of Cars Direct, as well as the chief operating officer and partner of TRUECar.com.
In his position, Frey will oversee the planning and direction of auto solutions as it relates to product and market expansion, which includes the oversight of CUDL and AutoSMART, an online vehicle shopping site.
