Rival dealers are studying Carvana’s new-car playbook as it takes shape

Carvana’s expansion into physical retail with seven Stellantis dealerships is sparking debate among industry observers, as the company’s bold shift toward minimal staffing, AI-powered automation, and home delivery challenges traditional car-selling models. Analysts are closely watching whether this hybrid approach can bridge the gap between Carvana’s digital efficiency and the hands-on experience dealers argue customers still demand. The move raises questions about operational costs, customer trust, and whether the industry’s future lies in blending technology with in-person sales—or if one will dominate. With automakers increasingly partnering with digital-first retailers, the experiment could reshape how new vehicles are bought and sold.

Carvana's seven Stellantis stores are drawing close attention from dealers and analysts as the digital retailer's new-vehicle strategy, with fewer staff, AI-driven automation and home delivery, comes ...