NADA Show 2026: What Dealership Leaders Need to Know About AI

AI is driving dealerships forward in 2026. At this year’s NADA Show, happening February 3–6 in Las Vegas, over 40 exhibitors are showcasing AI solutions - up from just 10 last year. These tools are helping dealerships solve staffing issues, respond to leads faster, and boost profitability. If you’re not already using AI, you’re falling behind.

What’s in it for you? Learn how AI tools can improve sales, service, and operations. From lead reactivation to 24/7 service call handling, these systems are already delivering results. Dealers using AI report a 26% performance boost and save $200–$500 per vehicle sold.

Here’s what you need to know:

• AI is no longer theoretical - it’s solving real dealership problems today.
• Key sessions to attend: The Super Session on February 3 at 12 PM breaks down how AI impacts operations.
• Top tools to evaluate: Lead management, voice AI for service departments, and automated reputation management.

Pro tip: Review your current systems before the show. Identify gaps in your CRM, service scheduling, or inventory management. Then, target vendors who can address those pain points. With over 600 exhibitors, preparation is key.

Bottom line: AI isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a tool for improving efficiency and profitability. Use the NADA Show to find solutions that fit your dealership’s needs. Don’t miss the chance to stay ahead in 2026.

Hot Tech Trends for NADA 2026

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Why AI is the Main Focus at NADA Show 2026

Artificial intelligence is taking center stage at NADA 2026, and for good reason. The technology has moved beyond theoretical promises to delivering measurable results in dealership operations today ^[3]. Leaders in the industry are no longer debating its potential - they’re actively evaluating AI tools that are already proving their worth. These systems, designed specifically for automotive data, VIN-specific inventory, and OEM build details, are solving real-world challenges dealerships face every day.

The numbers tell the story. More than 40 exhibitors at NADA 2026 will showcase AI-driven solutions, a sharp increase from just 10 exhibitors in 2025 ^[3]. This growth reflects how AI is addressing critical issues like staffing shortages and the need for 24/7 customer engagement ^[4]. A Cox Automotive study from 2025 underscores the impact: dealerships using AI and automation are not only operating more efficiently but also achieving nearly double the profitability of those that don’t ^[6]. With this momentum, the expanded North Hall is primed to spotlight the latest advancements.

145 First-Time Exhibitors in the Expanded North Hall

The North Hall, now larger than ever, will feature 145 new exhibitors unveiling AI tools tailored for dealership operations ^[5]. This isn’t a generic tech expo - it’s a focused display of solutions designed to streamline workflows in areas like lead reactivation, service automation, inventory pricing analysis, and ad testing ^[7].

Connie Mikels, Director of Expositions at NADA, captures the essence of this space:

"North Hall is the launchpad of innovation, networking and fresh opportunity that powers every corner of the Show. North is not just where you see what's next - it's where you start making it happen" ^[5].

While the West Hall continues to feature established systems, the North Hall is all about showcasing cutting-edge AI tools that dealerships can implement right now.

How AI Addresses Current Dealership Challenges

AI is stepping up to solve three major pain points for dealerships: staffing shortages, speed-to-lead response times, and customer retention. These systems go far beyond basic automation. Acting as autonomous agents, modern AI tools handle tasks like responding to leads instantly, following up days later, and seamlessly managing data across CRM, DMS, and inventory platforms - all without requiring human input ^[6].

With car buyers willing to travel up to 119 miles to find the right vehicle ^[6], dealerships need AI-powered tools to capture and nurture leads from outside their immediate area. AI has revolutionized marketing efforts, completing tasks in seconds that used to take hours ^[7]. In service departments, AI-driven call handling ensures 24/7 availability, reducing the risk of missed appointments and lost revenue.

The rise of "Vertical AI" is a game changer. These systems are built specifically for automotive applications, leveraging data like VIN-specific inventory and OEM build information to deliver precision and accuracy that general-purpose models simply can’t match ^[6]. With tools like natural language search, automated ad targeting, and real-time pricing adjustments, dealerships can integrate these capabilities directly into their operations, improving efficiency and increasing sales and customer retention in the process.

AI Sessions Worth Attending at NADA 2026

NADA 2026 is diving deep into the world of AI, offering sessions designed to turn innovation into action. From the flagship AI Super Session to quick-hit Dealer Learning Labs, 15-minute Product Demos, and hands-on Workshops, there’s something for every dealership leader looking to stay ahead.

Super Session: "AI Disruption or AI Advantage? The Future of Dealership Ops"

Mark your calendar for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 12:00–1:30 PM PT in Room W325 ^[1]. This session is a must for anyone wondering if AI is a threat or a game-changer for dealerships ^[1].

The panel lineup is packed with industry heavyweights: Rob Cochran (2026 NADA Chairman), Steve Greenfield (General Partner at Automotive Ventures), Michael Hayes (NADA Academy Director), Matthew Laughridge (Managing Partner at Terry Reid Hyundai & Genesis), Jon Miller (CEO & Co‑Founder at Halcyon), and Jennifer Suzuki (President and Founder at ZukiTalk). Together, they’ll outline a clear strategy for using AI to transform sales, service, staffing, marketing, and customer engagement.

The session also tackles one of the biggest concerns in today’s AI landscape - risk management. With sensitive customer data and financial transactions on the line, dealerships need to stay ahead of potential threats. An expert will break down practical ways to safeguard your operations, ensuring your business is prepared for the challenges AI can bring.

This isn’t just a high-level discussion. Attendees will walk away with actionable steps to boost efficiency, improve customer experiences, and set their dealerships up for success in the next wave of automotive retail. For those ready to move from ideas to implementation, head straight to the Product Demo Stage afterward for 15-minute showcases of AI tools in action.

AI Solutions to Evaluate at NADA Show 2026

Once you've absorbed the insights from key sessions, it's time to dive into the real-world AI solutions showcased on the floor. With over 600 exhibitors and 145 first-time vendors gathered in the expanded North Hall, NADA 2026 offers a wealth of tools aimed at tackling dealership challenges head-on. Here's what to keep on your radar as you explore the floor and how these solutions can help streamline operations while improving profitability.

Lead Reactivation and CRM Optimization

Your CRM harbors untapped potential. Predictive prospecting AI tools can dig into your customer database to pinpoint high-propensity buyers - customers already in your system who are most likely to purchase soon, based on market trends and their past behavior ^[10]. These advanced tools not only identify likely buyers but also predict the type of vehicle they might be interested in ^[9][10]. The latest systems integrate data from your CRM, DMS, and website into a single, unified platform. This eliminates duplicate entries and equips your sales team with a complete view of every customer interaction ^[10].

Chris Walsh, President and Acting CEO at Reynolds and Reynolds, calls this integration "the single biggest advancement in technology I have seen in my 39 years in this industry" ^[10]. Dealerships using these connected AI workflows have reported up to a 15% increase in back-end profits ^[9]. With 40% of dealerships already using AI and 77% having integrated it into their systems, early adopters are seeing measurable gains ^[8].

Speed-to-Lead Response Tools

Quick responses can make or break a lead. AI-powered speed-to-lead systems ensure that customer inquiries are addressed instantly, even during peak times. These tools seamlessly connect online shopper activity to in-store desking systems, allowing your sales team to pick up exactly where the customer left off online ^[9]. At NADA 2026, the new Product Demo Stage will host 15-minute sessions showcasing how speed-to-lead automation works ^[2]. As you evaluate these solutions, look for ones that integrate smoothly with your CRM and deliver real-time alerts to your BDC or sales team.

Voice AI for Service and Parts Departments

Missed calls mean missed opportunities. Voice AI systems can handle service and parts inquiries around the clock, booking appointments even during after-hours or when your team is stretched thin. These tools provide detailed transcripts, summaries, and outcome tags for every call, linking them directly to customer profiles in your CRM for follow-up ^[10]. They also automate data entry and create personalized follow-up actions based on call history ^[10]. With 63% of dealers stating that AI tools must be trained on automotive-specific language and workflows to be effective, it's critical to choose vendors who understand the unique needs of dealerships ^[8].

Reputation Management Automation

Your online reputation plays a huge role in building customer trust and improving search rankings. AI-powered reputation management tools automate responses to reviews on platforms like Google, Facebook, and dealer review sites, ensuring timely replies without adding to your team's workload. These systems analyze sentiment, craft tailored responses, and flag negative reviews for human attention. The number of AI-focused exhibitors at NADA has jumped from just 10 in 2025 to over 40 in 2026 ^[3], highlighting how rapidly these tools are transforming dealership operations.

How to Prepare for NADA Show 2026

NADA Show 2026 is set for February 3–6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. With over 600 exhibitors, including 153 first-time participants in the expanded North Hall, having a game plan is essential for dealership leaders to make the most of their time.

Plan Your Schedule Around AI Sessions and Exhibitors

Start by downloading the official NADA Mobile App. Use it to map out your agenda and navigate the massive show floor. One session you won’t want to miss is the Super Session, "AI Disruption or AI Advantage? The Future of Dealership Ops," happening Tuesday, February 3, at 12:00 PM in room W325. Afterward, head to the North Hall to explore the latest AI exhibitors.

Don’t overlook the Product Demo Stages in the West Hall and on the Expo floor. These quick, 15-minute demos showcase how AI can be applied in dealership operations. If you’re attending with a team, divide and conquer - coordinate who attends which sessions to ensure you gather as much insight as possible. Just be mindful of mandatory meetings, which typically take place from 3:00–4:15 PM, Tuesday through Thursday.

A solid schedule will help you focus on refining your processes and maximizing your return on investment.

Review Your Current CRM and Operations Before the Show

Before you even pack for Las Vegas, take a hard look at your dealership’s workflows. Identify problem areas like bottlenecks in BDC handoffs, service scheduling, or follow-ups. Are your CRM, DMS, and scheduling tools working together, or are they disconnected? Make note of challenges such as aged inventory or low service retention so you can target vendors who might have solutions.

"Most dealerships don't have a tech problem. They have a throughput problem."

Go a step further and evaluate your current automation tools. Are they basic, like scripted chatbots, or do they offer deeper, system-level functionality that can handle tasks autonomously? Check if your tools are equipped for automotive-specific needs, like VIN-specific inventory searches or real-time recall data. Knowing where your systems fall short will help you ask vendors the right questions and find tools that fit your needs.

Having a clear understanding of your operations will allow you to book vendor demos that address your specific challenges.

Book Demos and Calculate AI ROI

Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule vendor demos - book them in advance to secure your spot. Some vendors even offer perks for pre-booked demos, like a $50 gift card at Booth #5300W. These early appointments can give you a better sense of product quality and the level of support the vendor provides.

Make sure every demo includes a discussion of ROI. As Rafa from Dealer Image Pro says:

"If a booth can't tie what they do back to real results, it's probably not worth the time."

Look for AI solutions that integrate seamlessly with your existing systems and simplify your operations rather than complicating them. With over 40 AI-focused exhibitors at NADA 2026 - up from just 10 in 2025 - you’ll have plenty of options to compare. Focus on vendors who can show measurable results and practical applications for your dealership.

Final Thoughts: Using AI to Improve Dealership Performance

The NADA Show 2026 highlights a turning point for AI in dealerships, moving from buzzworthy concepts to tools delivering measurable results. With over 40 AI-focused exhibitors^[3], the focus is now on solutions that provide real ROI and tackle specific operational challenges. The question is no longer whether to adopt AI but which tools will make the biggest impact on your dealership.

The priority should be vertical AI - technology designed specifically for automotive workflows. These tools excel in areas like VIN searches and financing, where precision is critical. Look for autonomous AI agents that can handle tasks like responding to late-night leads, re-engaging dormant customers, and managing the customer lifecycle without constant manual input. As Cox Automotive puts it:

"AI becomes a productivity multiplier - boosting efficiency and customer satisfaction while minimizing risks to workflow and trust."^[12]

Beyond tailored tools, seamless integration is key. Nearly 77% of dealers using AI have already embedded these technologies into their existing systems^[8]. This integration eliminates data silos and reduces manual work, driving meaningful operational improvements. Your AI solution should connect effortlessly with your DMS, CRM, and service scheduling tools, ensuring a streamlined process rather than adding complexity.

Security and compliance are equally critical. Auto lending fraud losses reached $9.2 billion in 2024^[11], underscoring the importance of enterprise-grade security features like SOC 2 compliance and TCPA adherence. These safeguards not only protect sensitive data but also prevent off-brand communication. As Dealertrack warns:

"With fraudsters using AI to fake identities, we need to level the playing field and combat them using the same types of tools."^[11]

Strong security measures enhance the reliability and trustworthiness of your operations.

To get started, identify your dealership’s biggest pain points - whether it’s aged inventory, slow lead responses, or service retention issues. Use the NADA Show 2026 as an opportunity to connect with vendors who can demonstrate clear improvements in these areas. Schedule demos, insist on seeing ROI metrics, and choose solutions that simplify your operations. Pair these insights with your pre-show research to target the vendors that will bring the most value to your dealership.

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