Novaco has launched a new artificial intelligence (AI) powered interface for dealer websites that helps customers search for cars and book test drives or workshop appointments.
The Action Bar, introduced with the new generation of Nova Web on September 24, replaces the conventional chat bubble.
It presents actions based on the page a customer is viewing, while also allowing them to ask questions in their own words.
On an inventory page, customers can describe the car they want and search the dealer’s live stock.
On a vehicle page, they can ask about availability, part exchange, a showroom visit or a test drive.
For aftersales, Novaco says the interface can collect details including a vehicle’s registration and mileage. Where the dealer’s workshop software is connected, it can book an appointment directly into that system.
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From enquiries to bookings
Maarten Bekkers, founder of Novaco, said: “The chat bubble was designed for chat.
|AI can do much more. Nova can understand where someone is on the website, help them find the right car and guide them towards a meaningful next step.
“Keeping all that intelligence hidden behind a little bubble in the corner means using only a fraction of what is now possible.”
The distinction for dealers is whether an interaction ends with an enquiry for staff to process or a completed booking.
The latter depends on the systems connected to Nova Web.
Bekkers said: “If AI simply replaces a form and then creates another task for someone at the dealership, we have only improved part of the process.
“The next step is for AI, where the connected systems allow it, to complete the action itself. Booking directly into the workshop system is a very tangible example of that.”
Novaco says Nova Web is the website component of a wider range that also includes Nova Messaging and Nova Voice. The company intends those channels to draw on connected dealer systems to support customer enquiries and actions.